All About The CPAP Machine For Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is generally treated through the use of a machine to provide continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) therapy. A CPAP machine for sleep apnea is a shoebox sized device that comprises a mask, tubes, and a fan. CPAP machines function by delivering pressurized air into your airways through a mask. The positive pressure generated by the fan in the machine is a constant value.
The CPAP machine was invented by Dr. Sullivan in 1981. Since that time, the technology of CPAP machines has undergone significant advancement. Today's CPAP machines are equipped with user friendly and self diagnostic features. Even the CPAP machine design has been made so compact that you can use it even while traveling.
The CPAP machine delivers pressurized air into the airways through a mask. The CPAP mask is available in various sizes, shapes, styles, and models. It can be equipped with different types of cushions. It is now very light, is non-intrusive, and functions as silently as possible.
Some of these CPAP masks are in the form of nasal pillows. The nasal pillows are really inserts through which the CPAP therapy is applied. The nasal pillow design is very lightweight. There are two basic types of CPAP masks. One of these features the nasal CPAP mask that fits over the nose and the other the full face CPAP mask that fits over the nose and the full face. The latter has the advantage that it can help overcome the issue of the air pressure loss due to the opening of the mouth during sleep. So, functionally, a full face CPAP mask is much better than a nasal mask. It does not let any air escape through the mouth. This way, positive air pressure is maintained at a constant value without any reduction. The cost of the full face CPAP mask is much higher than a nasal CPAP mask. A CPAP machine requires very little preventive maintenance. However, an exception to this is an item known as the CPAP filter. The filter requires to be changed after every 30 to 45 days. An inspection of the CPAP filter needs to be done every month to check whether it is clogged by debris. Some filters are of the use and throw type. Others are reusable after washing. Heated humidifiers are used in some CPAP machines to prevent the drying up of airway passages. Due to the humidifiers, sleep apnea patients who use CPAP machines do not feel any discomfort. You can have many different options in CPAP machines. They include renting, outright purchase, insured purchase, altitude adjustment, a carrying case, air pressure ramping, battery operation, and different inhalation and exhalation pressures. A CPAP machine for sleep apnea requires a medical prescription and FDA approval to enable a person to purchase it. The machine is useful in both OSA and central sleep apnea.
Sleep Apnea
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