What is a CPAP machine?
A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine delivers constant airflow to a person’s airway, helping to keep it open during sleep. The CPAP pump gently pressurizes the surrounding air and channels it through a tube to a mask, ensuring the throat remains open. Various mask styles, including nasal, facial, and hybrid options, are available to cater to individual needs.
Is CPAP a good treatment for me? Is it a lifelong treatment?
After conducting a sleep study (either at home or in our clinic), our specialist will classify the patient as one of the following:
- A patient with sleep apnea due to the anatomy of the airways
- A patient with hypertrophic tonsils
- An obese patient
Based on the severity of sleep apnea, the specialist will recommend suitable treatment options.
The benefits of using a CPAP are significant when worn for at least four hours per night. Patients often notice immediate positive changes, such as better sleep quality, increased daytime alertness, and reduced risk of severe health issues like stroke and cardiovascular disease.
CPAP is generally a long-term treatment, requiring regular follow-ups with a doctor and a respiratory therapist.
Sleep Apnea Related to the Anatomy of the Upper Airway
Some individuals are born with naturally smaller upper airways, often due to genetic factors. For these patients, CPAP therapy is typically a long-term solution unless surgery is an option.
Sleep Apnea Related to Hypertrophic Tonsils
Tonsils, located within the Waldeyer’s Ring (pharyngeal, tubal, palatine, and lingual tonsils), help fight infections. In some cases, these tonsils are larger than usual (hypertrophic), contributing to sleep apnea. CPAP is often used as long-term therapy unless surgical removal is a viable option.
Sleep Apnea and Obesity
Obesity is closely linked to sleep apnea, as excess fat around the neck can compress the upper airway. Weight loss can sometimes eliminate the need for CPAP therapy, but a follow-up sleep test is necessary to confirm an AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) lower than 5 events per hour, which is considered normal.
How do I maintain a CPAP?
For basic maintenance guidelines, please contact us. We offer quality assistance if your machine requires servicing.
Where can I find parts and accessories for my CPAP?
We supply a range of CPAP accessories for specific models. Check the relevant sections or contact us directly for more information.
What are the alternative treatments if I cannot use a CPAP?
Adapting to CPAP treatment can be challenging, and some patients may find it difficult to commit to long-term use. We offer discussions on alternative treatments for sleep apnea, including a variety of surgical and non-surgical options:
- Traditional or laser surgeries
- Oral appliances and advanced mandibular prosthetics
- Non-invasive solutions