Positive Airway Pressure Therapy (PAP) / Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy or CPAP is the most common form of treatment for moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).To use the CPAP, the patient wears a nasal or full-face mask that delivers pressurized air to the upper airway, preventing the airway from collapsing during sleep. This airflow keeps the airway open, preventing pauses in breathing and restoring normal oxygen levels.Newer CPAP models are small, light and virtually silent. Patients can choose from numerous mask sizes and styles to achieve a good fit.

Parts of the CPAP Machine

CPAP machine has 3 parts: mask, motor and hose.

1. The CPAP Mask: Your mask should fit snugly on your face. Its job is to move the pressurized air into your lungs and airway continuously, preventing obstruction or collapse. Masks come in various fits and basically three different styles:

Nasal masks are designed to fit over your nose only.

Full-face masks will cover both your mouth and your nose and are helpful if you’re a mouth breather.

Nasal pillows fit directly into your nostrils and can help when you feel claustrophobic because it’s more free and open.

2. The CPAP Machine Motor

The motor on the machine draws in and pressurizes the air from the room based on your pressure setting. It uses room temperature air and some devices also moisturize the air with a humidifier. There is a filter on the motor that removes air impurities. The motors are typically quiet and won't interrupt your sleep.

3. The CPAP Hose

The pressurized air will move from the machine’s motor through the hose connected to the machine into your mask.

Benefits of CPAP therapy

CPAP results in many positive outcomes. Some of these improvements include:

Breathing and snoring issues are almost eliminated.

Improved sleep quality.

Reduced daytime drowsiness and tiredness, especially in mild to moderate cases.

Improvement in hypertension, diabetes, hypothyroidism, pulmonary hypertension, risk of ischemic cardiac events, etc.

Increased attention, vigilance and better concentration during day.