CPAP - A Sleep Apnea Treatment

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is a relatively simple and non-invasive home treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Since many people who snore do so as a result of Sleep Apnea then it can often work as a snoring cure in these cases. What follows is an introduction to the topic, please remember I'm only a layman!

What Is CPAP?

It's important to remember that the CPAP system isn't taking over your breathing - it's not a fully fledged ventilator. It's simply that the additional air pressure provided by the equipment helps to keep the nasal airways open when you breathe normally.

The CPAP systems available for sale today vary in sophistication (and price!). For example some machines provide a constant pressure, others adjust themselves according to your breathing. Some of the best advanced models can also offer additional features such as monitoring and data recording.

Perhaps the major advantage of CPAP treatment is that it's non-invasive and for some people can be an alternatve to surgery. Unfortunately it's not without its own problems.

CPAP Problems

Once you have adjusted to wearing the CPAP mask, you still need to find one that fits properly. No two faces are the same and a mask that works perfectly for one person might not be suitable for another. Different brands of CPAP system will vary in the availability of face masks, filters and supplies as well as accessories and optional extras. Your doctor will be able to help you decide the best option for you and, of course, you should follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.

Older CPAP equipment was sometimes noisy, the modern machines on the market are usually a lot quieter. Manufacturers often describe their products as "near silent". However it's worth remembering that a machine which seems silent during the day might sound very different in the middle of the night.

Finally there is the problem of how you sleep. If you're a docile sleeper and spend the night on your back, there should be no problem. If - like me - you are constantly moving around and changing position then you might find the CPAP device claustrophobic or irritating - possibly totally impractical. How easy it is to change your sleeping habits depends on how ingrained they are. It may help to consider a CPAP Pillow designed and shaped to increase comfort and compliance.

CPAP Side Effects

A significant number of CPAP users experience sores on the bridge of the nose. This can usually be prevented or at least reduced by making sure you buy a high quality, correctly fitting mask.

All that said, if your doctor recommends CPAP and it works for you then it has to be better than the old-fashioned approach to sleep apnea treatment: tracheostomy!