Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) refers to a medical device used primarily for the treatment of sleep apnea, although it may also be employed to transition patients in hospitals from breathing tubes, or intubation, to regular breathing. Those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder or other breathing disorders may also use a CPAP at night.
A CPAP machine has a small box connected to tubes through which air flows. The tubes are connected to a mask worn on the face. Straps around the mask fit it to the face over the mouth and nose. For those with sleep apnea, the CPAP is used at night during normal sleep.
Sleep apnea causes interruption of natural breathing during sleep. The CPAP uses compressed air to keep the air passage open so breathing continues normally. The appropriate pressure values are determined during a sleep study. Sleep laboratories observe patients overnight to gauge their degree of apnea and other sleep problems. After a person's sleep is observed, a recommendation is made as to what pressure value is likely to be most effective.
Since sleep apnea can have an overall effect on a person’s wakefulness during the day, a CPAP is a useful tool. One study originating from New Zealand suggests that untreated cases of sleep apnea create a state similar to intoxication. Drivers with sleep apnea are much more likely to be involved in car accidents than those without. Therefore, addressing sleep apnea through CPAP is sensible.
However, many patients find the equipment onerous, and the CPAP can actually cause wakefulness in some. Early CPAP machines were noisy, making it harder for users to fall asleep. The noise of air being pushed through the machine is also troubling to many users.
More expensive and newer versions of CPAPs are easily portable and far quieter. These new models can record the user’s breaths and deliver air only as needed. New masks that fit to the nose only and don’t require the use of straps can create a more comfortable environment for sleep.
These newer versions make travel fairly easy. In most cases, a CPAP can be carried onto a plane. International travel may require the purchase of plug adaptors.
Even though the CPAP and its parts have improved, many people are still reluctant to use this equipment. Patients may not only experience interrupted sleep because of the noise, but may also suffer from chronic nasal congestion, eye and skin irritations, and dry throat. Partners of people who use the CPAP often find the noise disruptive to sleep and may need to sleep in a different bedroom.
By working closely with the respiratory therapist who trains the user of the CPAP, some of these problems can be reduced. For example, a mask that is too tight or too loose can cause both eye and skin problems. A humidifier can address both nasal congestion and dry or sore throat.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) masks and headgear come in many styles and sizes to comfortably treat your sleep apnea. Everyone has different needs and face shapes, so you may need to try a variety of CPAP masks before finding the right one for you. And just because you're a certain size in some styles of CPAP masks doesn't mean you'll be the same size in others.
Here's a look at a few CPAP masks and possible benefits of each. Work closely with your doctor and CPAP mask supplier to make sure you have a mask that suits your needs and fits you.
Nasal pillows beneath the nose supply air pressure. Side straps keep the mask in place.
Might be good if:
You feel claustrophobic in masks that cover more of your face
You want a full field of vision for reading
You want to wear your glasses
Nasal pillows or a small mask called a cushion supplies air pressure. The front mount containing the nose piece adjusts up and down. Ball-cap-style straps keep the mask in place.
Might be good if:
You feel claustrophobic in masks that cover more of your face
You sleep on your side (no side straps)
You sleep on your abdomen
You want the option of using a pillow or mask interface
The mask covering the nose supplies air pressure. The foam piece around the nasal mask helps seal the mask. Side straps keep the mask in place.
Might be good if:
Your doctor has prescribed a high air pressure setting — the foam piece seals the mask to the face well without a lot of pressure on the face
You move around a lot in your sleep — the headgear flexes due to the foam piece and how the straps attach
The mask covering the nose supplies air pressure and suctions to your face while the CPAP machine is running. Side straps keep the mask in place.
Might be good if:
You move around a lot in your sleep — both the suction of the mask to your face and the side straps help keep it in place
Your doctor has prescribed a high air pressure setting — the suction of the mask to your face maintains a good seal, so air doesn't escape
The mask covering the nose and mouth supplies air pressure. Side straps keep the mask in place.
Might be good if:
You have nasal obstruction or congestion that makes breathing through your nose difficult
You breathe through your mouth at night despite a month of trying a nasal mask or nasal pillow interface combined with a heated humidity feature or chin strap or both to keep your mouth closed