CPAP

If you are found to have obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor may prescribe CPAP (pronounced "SEE-pap"). CPAP is short for continuous positive airway pressure. This common and effective treatment provides pressure to the person's airway through a machine that blows air. The airflow from the CPAP machine is delivered through a mask that fits on the face and covers both the nose and mouth or just the nose. The compressed air flows into the airway and acts as a splint or a support to hold back the tongue, open the soft tissue that was obstructing the throat, and keep the airway open during sleep. This allows breathing to become more regular. Snoring stops and restful sleep is restored. Risk factors associated with untreated sleep apnea are greatly reduced when CPAP is used as prescribed by the doctor. In addition, the patient's quality of life often improves as the person is less tired and may have more energy.

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A DME (durable medical equipment) company will provide the CPAP equipment prescribed by your doctor. The insurance company involved may have an agreement with a specific company to provide this service to you. The DME provider should help you pick out a CPAP machine and mask. The provider should show you how to use and properly care for the equipment and also answer any questions you may have.

It is important to make CPAP a part of your everyday life. It should be used at night for sleep, as well as for planned naps. The treatment works only if it is used daily.

Getting used to the CPAP machine is different for each person. Some people may put the CPAP mask on the first night and wear it all night with great results. Others may struggle from the start, finding the system disruptive and uncomfortable. Most people fall in between these two extremes. CPAP users normally need a period of adjustment. Remember, CPAP can improve your quality of sleep and life, but it requires cooperation on your part. It is important not to get discouraged. It can take several weeks for some people to get used to using CPAP all night long. It may help to try to get used to the mask alone while awake, then later trying to sleep through the night with it connected to the machine.

Side effects of CPAP may include headaches, dry or stuffy nose, sore eyes, or bloating of the stomach. You can work with your healthcare provider to alleviate these problems. For example, you may be able to get a better-fitting mask, or use a nasal spray to relieve a dry nose. If you have problems using CPAP, make sure to ask for help so you can get used to using your CPAP or can try another treatment. Contact your DME provider concerning problems with equipment or comfort. Contact your doctor for medical problems.

The CPAP machine is portable. It will work with electricity (either 110 or 220 current), with an adapter for a car cigarette lighter, or with a 12-volt deep cycle marine battery. When flying, take CPAP as carry-on luggage only. Travel bags are available through the DME provider. CPAP can go anywhere.

Your doctor may prescribe oxygen to be used with the CPAP equipment. The oxygen is added to the system with a special adaptor. If you will be traveling away from home, contact your DME provider. The DME provider can arrange for oxygen while you travel.