CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) For Sleep Apnea

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is a method where a machine produces air pressure. In order to receive it, you have to wear a mask. The mask is situated on your nose while you’re sleeping.

When you are using CPAP, you receive more air pressure than you would if you were just breathing in air from the outside. The air pressure with this machine helps to keep the passageways of your upper airway open. This helps to prevent snoring and apnea.

In the beginning, not everyone that uses this machine will feel comfortable with it. Because of the way it’s made, it may not feel right at first. However, with adjustments and making the straps fit properly, you will be able to get used to wearing it.

However, if the mask you have is not settling in, then you may have to find another one. In addition to that, you can use a humidifier along with the CPAP for additional comfort.

There may be times when you have other problems. However, don’t stop using it. Instead, check with your physician to see what can be done and make additional corrections or adjustments. If you have gained weight, the settings for the air pressure any have to be changed.


Possible Side Effects With CPAP

During the first few nights that you wear this device, it can get on your nerves because it is not automatically comfortable to wear. It makes you want to stop the treatment for sleep apnea. However, it would defeat the purpose. What you can do is use the device with low air pressure starting out.

Most people that use CPAP say that they experience side effects. Most of them are dealing with the mask itself. You can select a mask that provides comfort and prevents it from leaking a lot of air pressure.

Here are some of the side effects that you may experience with the device:

· Irritated eyes.

· More air pressure than usual—you can have a difficult time exhaling when that happens.

· Experience infections in the upper respiratory area if you don’t keep the device clean.

· Nose and throat irritation.

· Dry mouth.

· Sore mouth.

· Congestion in the nasal area.

· Nose sores from wearing the device too tight.

· Discomfort of the chest muscles


There will be other times when the CPAP will have to be adjusted. Your physician or a sleep specialist can teach you how to do this. Once you learn how to do it, you will be able to save money by not having to make visits to see your physician or specialist (unless absolutely necessary).

You can also get devices that will help you to get more air in your throat. They are adjustable and made to fit your needs in order to get more air flowing through your throat. The device adjusts the air pressure while you’re sleeping. You don’t have to push a button or use a dial to adjust it. The adjustment is done automatically as you sleep.

A mouthpiece or an oral appliance is another option if the CPAP doesn’t work out for you. This device is used to keep your throat open so that you can get air. It can help those who are dealing with mild sleep apnea.

Even though the CPAP is more effective than the mouthpiece, the latter has been proven easier for some people to use while they’re sleeping. It opens your throat by moving your lower jaw forward. Doing this can help your snoring and treat the mild obstructive sleep apnea.

You can get a mouthpiece from a dentist. It may take a moment to find the right one that you can be comfortable with. It’s important that you check with the dentist every six months after you start wearing it.

After the first year of wear, you can check with the dentist once a year. You want to make sure that it is still fitting right and working properly. If you are feeling any discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact the dentist for a possible adjustment.