Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a medical device for the treatment of sleep apnea. There are generally two treatments for sleep apnea – the CPAP machine and the dental sleep appliance. CPAP and the dental sleep appliance can each be used for mild to moderate sleep apnea whereas CPAP is the optimal treatment for severe sleep apnea.
A CPAP machine has a small box connected to tubes through which air flows. The tubes are connected to a mask worn on the face. Straps around the mask fit it to the face over the mouth or nose and is used at night during normal sleep.
Sleep apnea causes interruption of natural breathing during sleep due to obstruction. The CPAP uses compressed air to keep the air passage open so breathing continues normally. The appropriate pressure values of the CPAP machine are determined during a sleep study and are mostly based on the degree of sleep apnea. After a person’s sleep is observed, a recommendation is made as to what pressure value is likely to be most effective.
However, many patients find the equipment onerous and the CPAP can actually cause wakefulness in some. Early CPAP machines were noisy, making it harder for users to fall asleep. The noise of air being pushed through the machine is also troubling to many users.
Newer versions of CPAP units are easily portable and far quieter. These new models can record the user’s breaths and deliver air only as needed. New masks that fit to the nose only and don’t require the use of straps can create a more comfortable environment for sleep. These newer versions make travel fairly easy. In most cases, a CPAP can be carried onto a plane.
Even though the CPAP and its parts have improved, many people are still reluctant to use this equipment. Patients may not only experience interrupted sleep because of the noise, but may also suffer from chronic nasal congestion, eye and skin irritations, and dry throat. Partners of people who use the CPAP often find the noise disruptive to sleep and may need to sleep in a different bedroom.
By working closely with a CPAP therapist some of these problems can be reduced. A humidifier can address both nasal congestion and dry or sore throat.
Though, at first, adjusting to the CPAP can be difficult, the benefits can ultimately outweigh initial discomfort. Those who have been affected by sleep apnea for much of their life will soon find themselves feeling rested and refreshed. Greater alertness during the day can increase memory, improve job performance and enhance mood.
If a patient with severe sleep apnea cannot or won’t use CPAP then it is very important that a dental sleep appliance is used so you have assistance with your breathing during sleep. A dental appliance is generally considerably more comfortable to use than CPAP and while it may not overcome severe sleep apnea it is more likely to reduce the apnea by around 70% or more. This is usually sufficient to feel more refreshed on waking, less sleepy and not snoring. It is also usually sufficient to no longer be in the high risk category for blood pressure problems, heart disease and stroke.
