CPAP Equipment

CPAP equipment helps to improve an individual's ability to breathe by forcing the airway open. This allows air to flow easier, making breathing more efficient.

Learn more about CPAP mask selection.

Many times, a doctor prescribes CPAP equipment as a way of treating breathing difficulties. The breathing devices are commonly used to treat sleep apnea. Doctors can help make decisions about which type of equipment is right for your condition.

CPAP, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is a method of opening the airway, to stop it from collapsing when an individual takes a breath in. The machines have tubes that attach to masks, which feed the air into the nose or mouth. Together, this CPAP equipment maintains a constant flow of air to the lungs. There are several types of these machines.

• CPAP: This small machine is the most commonly prescribed device for sleep apnea. Some of these machines allow the user to adjust the air pressure to accommodate the user's need.

• APAP: This machine automatically adjusts the amount of pressure being supplied based on the user's need at that moment. The patient adjusts the traditional Continuous Positive Airway Pressure device whereas the APAP machine's pressure adjusts on its own.

• BiPAP: Another similar device is the BiLevel machine. This machine offers two pressure settings. One if used for inhaling while the other is used for exhaling. This device is ideal for those who require a high level of pressure and have difficulty exhaling using a traditional CPAP device.

Finding the best CPAP mask is one step towards improving your breathing ability. Masks fit comfortably over the nose or face. The breathing machine then pumps air through the tubing into the airway. Its design allows the airway to stay open, which improves breathing.

• Nasal CPAP Mask: One type of CPAP equipment is the nasal mask. This mask fits over the user's nose. It ends just above the upper lip. This type of mask is most often used first, before other forms.

• Nasal Pillow Masks: The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine delivers a continuous flow of air through these masks. The masks are not much different. The nasal mask is formed with a small pillow that seals around the edges of the nostril. This mask is ideal for those who sleep on their sides or on their stomach.

• Full Face Mask: A third mask is one that covers the entire nose and mouth. The main benefit with this style of mask is that it reduces the amount of pressure loss typical with nasal masks and nasal pillows.

Some individuals require a bit more adjustment to make using CPAP equipment possible and comfortable. A number of accessories are available to provide these added benefits. For example, a chinstrap will help to hold the mouth shut while you sleep or during a airway treatment. Most are comfortable to use.

Other types of CPAP equipment help to make using this treatment possible. A travel pack can help an individual to travel with their devices. Power adapters (both for local and travel use) may also be available. Sometimes there is a need for additional tubing. Individuals can purchase this accessory.

One of the latest additions to the machines is software. Newer models of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines are able to record the number of sleep apnea episodes or instances of changes in breathing. This can help to provide doctors with an indication of what is happening throughout treatments.

There are many brands and models of CPAP equipment on the market. Finding just the right product is critical both to your wallet and to your health. It is easy to become overwhelmed by the various options you have.

• Work with your doctor to determine the best equipment for your unique situation.

• Check with your insurance agent about the amount of coverage you have and which types of devices they will cover.

• Compare specific brands and models through thorough researching several options.

Once you have selected the equipment, use it for several nights to determine if it improves your sleep quality. If not, talk to your doctor about possible adjustments.

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