CPAP therapy is the gold standard for treatment of sleeping disorders like obstructive sleep apnea. If you think (or know) you have obstructive sleep apnea you have the opportunity to experience better sleep and enjoy the feeling of more energy by trying CPAP therapy.
CPAP stands for ‘continuous positive airway pressure’.
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend that you use a CPAP machine. CPAP machines have been treating sleep apnea for over 30 years.1
CPAP delivers a constant flow of air via a mask while you sleep, helping to keep your airway open.
There are 3 main types of CPAP masks
Nasal pillows masks are very small and lightweight. They snuggle against your nostrils. They’re popular because of their minimal design and are a good choice if you tend to be claustrophobic. You can read and wear your glasses while wearing a nasal pillows mask. If you move about a lot when you sleep, this may be a good mask for you.
Nasal pillows masks aren’t so good for people who need higher air pressures or people who tend to breathe through their mouth. But if you are a mouth breather, you can still try one and add a chin strap to help keep your mouth closed.
Nasal masks fit over your nose and provide a slightly more indirect pressure compared to a nasal pillows masks. They’re better for people who need higher pressures and there’s a good range of sizes to choose from.
Nasal masks, like nasal pillow masks aren’t ideal for mouth breathers unless you add a chin strap. Some people find the nasal mask irritates the bridge of their nose. If you often get a blocked nose, you may have trouble with a nasal or nasal pillows mask.
Full face masks cover your mouth and nose, and are a good choice if you’re a mouth breather, if you frequently get a blocked nose or if you need higher pressure.
Look for a full face mask that had a good fit. This will prevent leaking air, especially near your eyes (giving you dry eyes). Newer styles of full face masks may allow you to wear glasses, read without too much obstruction. It may be harder to sleep on your stomach while wearing a full face mask.
Your choice of CPAP mask is the most critical aspect of ensuring that your CPAP therapy is successful. Choosing a comfortable CPAP mask can help to ensure that you use your therapy regularly and enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep.
When choosing a CPAP mask, think about the shape of your face, whether you have facial hair and whether you’re claustrophobic at all. When you’re looking at masks, try on as many types and sizes as you can, so you can find one you like best.
CPAP masks do wear out and need to be replaced regularly.
CPAP which stands for ‘continuous positive airway pressure’. It delivers a constant flow of air via a mask while you sleep, helping to keep your airway open.
APAP which stands for ‘automatic positive airway pressure’. These devices work like CPAP but the pressure they deliver varies depending on your needs, which can make treatment feel more comfortable.
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Bi-level machines are more advanced types of devices mainly used by people with more severe respiratory problems.
Both CPAP and bi-level therapies are effective and the machines look much the same. Bi-level machines delivers a lower pressure when you’re breathing out. They’re often preferred by people who need higher pressures, and a lower pressure when breathing out makes it easier to exhale. They are also used by people with other respiratory problems such as congestive heart failure, lung disease or a neuromuscular disorder.
Bi-level machines are more expensive than regular CPAP machines.
There is quite a large range of CPAP machines available in Australia.
Features to look for include:
Choosing the right CPAP machine and mask is very important. Your preferences and comfort are vital to the success of therapy. So before buying a CPAP machine or mask, ask to have a trial. Learn more about trialling CPAP.
A sleep study is the only way to find out for sure if you have sleep apnea. It tells you what type of sleep apnea you have and whether its mild, moderate or severe. There are several types of sleep study. Learn more about sleep studies
While CPAP is considered the gold standard treatment for sleep apnea, other treatments are available. Learn more about other sleep apnea treatments.
