CPAP Machines and Airway Masks
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment and Snoring
A CPAP machine is the most effective obstructive sleep apnea treatment option, and may also prevent snoring if the machine is used correctly.
Using a CPAP machine is the most effective snoring and obstructive sleep apnea treatment. CPAP machines and masks keep open airways, preventing a sleeper's airways from collapsing and causing sleep apnea. Not everyone, however, can adapt to a CPAP mask and machine.
What is a CPAP Machine?
A CPAP machine is a small, box-like device that blows air into the airways at a high enough pressure to keep airways open. the sleeper wears a CPAP mask that is attached to the CPAP machine by a six foot hose. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure.
When used correctly, a CPAP machine can prevent sleep apneas, snoring, and associated sleep apnea symptoms. The amount of air the CPAP machine delivers to the airways is determined during the patient's sleep study. CPAP is the recommended treatment for patients living with a combination of obstructive sleep apnea and coronary artery disease or heart failure.
Different CPAP machines have slightly different size, but tend to be lightweight boxes approximately six inches square and four inches deep. Smaller CPAP machines are available for travel that run on battery power.
CPAP Masks
If you are prescribed a CPAP machine, you may have to choose between several different CPAP masks. The nasal CPAP mask is the most popular variety, and covers the nose when sleeping. A full face CPAP mask covers both the mouth and nose. Also available are "prongs" that fit directly into the nose.
If you sleep with your mouth open, a full face CPAP mask may be your best choice. If your mouth is open while wearing a nasal mask the extra pressure supplied by the CPAP machine is lost.
CPAP masks are made of silicone with a variety of head straps and pillowed surfaces. Choose a CPAP mask that is as comfortable as possible. You may have to experiment with several CPAP mask designs before you find one that works for you.
CPAP Complications
The most common CPAP complication is a poorly fitted mask. If a CPAP mask is too loose, air will leak out the sides. If too tight, a CPAP mask can cause eye and skin irritation. Your sleep physician can help you fit your CPAP mask properly. Other CPAP complications include nosebleeds, dry nasal passages, and sore throats.
A CPAP machine will almost always alleviate sleep apnea symptoms—if it is used correctly and consistently. Approximately half of all people who try a CPAP machine stop using it over the long term. Some find the CPAP mask too uncomfortable. Others feel restricted and claustrophobic wearing the mask, or cannot get accustomed to the feeling of air blowing into their airways.
On the other hand, the remaining fifty percent of people who use a CPAP to treat obstructive sleep apnea and snoring adapt well to the CPAP machine. It's worthwhile to at least consider a CPAP if you have sleep apnea. Surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is invasive and does not always prevent sleep apnea symptoms, and oral applications for CPAP are not as effective as a CPAP machine.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute in any way for care and treatment by a qualified health professional.
Resources
American Academy of Otolaryngology. (nd). Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).
CPAP.com. (nd). Sleep Apnea: Treatment Options.
Lehnert, P. (updated 3 August 2005). Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
