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what is a cpap machine

What is a CPAP machine?

(Last Updated On: March 19, 2023)

What is a cpap machine? The continuous positive airway pressure machine, abbreviated as the CPAP machine is the most suggested machine worldwide for people who are suffering from sleep apnea disorder. 

Obstructive Sleep apnea (OSA) makes pauses in the breathing or interrupts the normal breathing during the sleeping time. It is because your throat temporarily blocks the airways. 

A CPAP machine gives positive airflow to ensure lots of oxygen available into your nose and mouth when you are sleeping. It helps you to breathe normally because the airway is always open.

How many types of CPAP machines are available?

There are some different types of machines to support obstructive sleep apnea. Commonly you will find 

BiPAP, and APAP

Along with the CPAP machine. Today we will discuss only CPAP machines. BiPAP and APAP will be discussed in another article. Just as you can remember, BiPAP stands for Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure and APAP Stands for Automatic Airway Pressure.

cpap machine included
image from cheapcpapsupplies.com

Well, any types of positive airway pressure machines have some basic components,

→ A motor placed in the base unit to produce air pressure.

→ A comfortable cushioned mask.

→ A tube that connects the mask and the motor.

→ A headgear frame.

→ To adjust the joints “elbow pieces”

→ To customize the fit of the machine, you will get adjustable straps.

What types of masks will I get in the CPAP machine?

Depending on your breathing habits, the mask style can vary. It can also widely depend on the comfort you are getting from the mask as well as the types of sleep apnea disorder you have. 

Different types of mask:

  • Nasal pillow mask: 

nasal pillow cpap mask

A nasal pillow mask only covers your nostrils area. It has small cushion caps which cover and to fit perfectly it may have prongs. The benefits of this mask are you will be able to wear glasses while using the CPAP machine. If you have long familial hair, it will be perfect for you which fits comfortably.

  • Nasal mask: 

cpap nasal mask

This type of mask covers the whole nose area as it will not displace if you move a lot in the sleeping time. Additionally, it can provide better airflow.


  • Full mask:

cpap full mask

They are used to cover the full nose and the mouth. Some people have problems with breathing by the nose at the time of sleeping and they use it for breath. This type of mask is recommended for them. 

 

What’s the difference between CPAP, APAP, and BiPAP machines?

CPAP: The CPAP machine programmed to produce air at the same level of air pressure all the time. The pressure can be set up manually. If you need to change the air pressure level you may need to reset the machine.

APAP: Automatic positive airflow pressure machine has a smart feature to check the breathing whole night and adjust the air pressure according to need. If the breathing changes by the sleep position changes or modifications it changes its air pressure. 

BiPAP: Bi-level positive airflow pressure machine. It has two pressing to support both exhales and inhales. The people who have problems with CPAP machines are suggested to use the BiPAP machine. It can be used for Central Sleep Apnea too. 

 

What are the benefits of using a CPAP machine?

It is the most used non-surgical treatment used worldwide for sleep apnea. It has a lot of health benefits such as it reduces daytime sleepiness, Controls blood pressure during day and night. And reduce heart problems while sleeping. It delivers a continuous supply of oxygen to your body while you are sleeping. Most commonly it gives sound sleep.

What are the drawbacks of using a CPAP machine?

It may cause a dry nose and wound throat. Using a CPAP machine can dreaming and nightmares to its user. Irritating on the skin and eyes is a common problem of using a CPAP machine. It takes some time to feel comfortable while you are using a mask on your face. Do not try to use it if you don’t have a problem with sleep apnea. It can cause high blood pressure, stroke, heart designs, depressions. Be sure of the pros and cons and consult with your doctor before using a CPAP machine. 

What are the Pros and Cons of using a CPAP machine?

Pros

Cons

Are CPAP machines that have insurance coverage?

If you have a medicare plan B and you have sleep apnea you may get 80 percent of coverage of the price while buying or renting a CPAP machine. Ensure that your doctor who prescribes this for you is an approved provider for medicare. 

If you have a medicare plan C, we recommend you to check the plan if there are any guidelines for buying a new or renting a CPAP machine.

A CPAP machine can cost $500 to $3000 depending on features and types.

Are there any other options for sleep apnea without a CPAP machine?

You already know that the CPAP machines have some drawbacks and for the drawbacks, it may not work for all types of sleep apnea patient, Ask your healthcare provider any alternative of CPAP machines, those can be:

Change Sleeping Position: Depending on sleeping positions some people have sleep apnea problems, Try changing the sleeping positions which can be an alternative for CPAP machines. 

Oral Devices: Oral devices like mouthguards or orthodontic can reduce sleep apnea.

Some Surgically implanted devices: Some devices like Hypoglossal nerve stimulation or Neural stimulation are implanted by surgery can stimulate your diaphragm to initiate breathing while you are sleeping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about CPAP machine:

How long will I have to use CPAP?

A CPAP machine is used to treat OSA, Remember that, It is a therapy, not a cure. Still today it is the most recommended therapy for the Sleep Apnea.

I’m a new user, what do I need to buy?

You need to buy a CPAP machine and a CPAP mask to start the CPAP therapy. You will get a power cord, filter, and hose along with the machine.

Are prescriptions required for mask, machine, humidifier, and EPAP purchases?

Yes, federal government law it is required a prescription to get a mask, machine, and humidifier as well as EPAP purchasing.

Why do I wake up to find my mask is off?

People remove their mask in sleeping if their mask does not provide enough air. Please check the air pressure or it has any leak. If your mask becomes too old or too big, you need to change. Using an APAP machine can be another solution.

What are the benefits of using a humidifier?

A lot of CPAP users complain that while using a CPAP machine they feel dryness in the nose and mouth. New users face problems most. Humidifiers add moisture to the air to solve these problems.

Are CPAP Machines Ventilators?

No, CPAP machines and ventilators are not the same.

How Can I Tell if CPAP is Working?

There are symptoms that will be shown while your CPAP machine is working properly. Such as improved energy, low blood pressure, low brain fog, less caffeine demand, and reduced driving drowsiness.

Does CPAP Stop Snoring?

Using a CPAP machine can reduce or stop snoring because it provides enough air pressure while you are sleeping.

The bottom line:

Using a CPAP machine can help you a lot if you suffer from Sleep apnea, Without any surgery or any other difficulties it is the easy solution. We recommend you to before using any machines like CPAP or APAP consult with a medicare provider to get the proper guidelines. We hope for a better and happy life for you.

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