What is a CPAP Machine? A Beginner’s Guide to Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea can feel overwhelming, but understanding its symptoms and causes is the first step toward effective treatment. One of the most common and well-researched treatments is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. CPAP machines help keep your airway open while you sleep, ensuring proper airflow and reducing interruptions to your breathing.

However, CPAP is just one of several treatment options available for sleep apnea. In this guide, we’ll explore how CPAP therapy works, its benefits, and alternative solutions for managing sleep apnea.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to drops in oxygen levels. These interruptions trigger a stress response, increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can raise the risk of serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

There are two main types of sleep apnea:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Most common form of sleep apnea, caused primarily by the collapse of soft tissue during sleep when the body relaxes and muscle tone decreases. OSA can also be attributed to excessive weight, large tonsils and narrowed anatomy.
2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Unlike OSA, CSA is not caused by a physical blockage. Instead, it occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. As a result, breathing slows or stops temporarily, often leading to abrupt awakenings and oxygen level fluctuations. CSA is less common than OSA and is often associated with conditions such as heart failure, neurological disorders, or high-altitude exposure.

What is a CPAP Machine?

A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a type of PAP machine that delivers a steady stream of air through a hose and mask to keep your airway open while you sleep. It’s set to maintain a fixed pressure, and the machine adjusts airflow slightly to ensure that target pressure is met consistently.

See below to learn about other types of PAP devices!

How Does A CPAP Machine Help Sleep Apnea?

In obstructive sleep apnea, the airway collapses during sleep—especially in deeper sleep stages—causing repeated pauses in breathing. This prevents restful, restorative sleep and lowers oxygen levels.

CPAP, and other forms of PAP therapy work by delivering a stream of pressurized air to keep the airway open throughout the night. The pressure(s) is set to prevent airway collapse, allowing normal breathing patterns to resume and helping you achieve uninterrupted, quality sleep.

Different Kinds of Positive Airway Pressure Machines

While CPAP is the most commonly prescribed device, there are several types of PAP machines designed to meet different needs. These machines are chosen based on individual comfort, breathing patterns, and specific medical conditions:

• CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): Delivers a fixed, constant pressure throughout the night to keep the airway open.
  
• APAP (Auto-Adjusting Positive Airway Pressure): Automatically adjusts pressure levels in response to changes in your breathing. Ideal for those whose pressure needs vary throughout the night.
  
• BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure): Provides two pressure settings—one for inhalation and a lower one for exhalation. Often used for people who struggle with standard CPAP or have additional respiratory conditions.
  
• ASV (Adaptive Servo-Ventilation): A more advanced device typically used for treating central sleep apnea or complex sleep apnea. It constantly monitors your breathing patterns and adjusts pressure support on a breath-by-breath basis.
  

Main Parts To A CPAP Machine

Main Unit: Contains the motor that generates a constant stream of pressurized air to keep your airway open during sleep.

Humidifier: Adds moisture to the air to prevent dryness and irritation. Many machines allow you to adjust the humidity level for comfort.

Pressure Settings: Most CPAP machines are set to a fixed pressure, but many allow customization to suit individual needs. APAP and BiPAP machines offer variable pressures.

Tubing: Connects the machine to the mask. Some tubing is heated to help maintain humidity and reduce condensation.

Mask: Worn over the nose, or nose and mouth, and designed to create a comfortable, effective seal for optimal airflow delivery. Available in different styles, including nasal pillows, nasal masks, and full-face masks.

Common CPAP Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Here are some common CPAP challenges along with potential strategies to overcome them:

Getting Used to the Mask:

• Problem: It can feel strange or uncomfortable having something on your face all night.
  
• Tips:
  
  • Try different mask styles (nasal, nasal pillows, full-face) to find the best fit.
    
  • Gradually increase usage by wearing the mask during short naps or while relaxing at home.

Claustrophobia:

• Problem: Some users may feel confined or anxious wearing a mask - especially a full-face mask that covers both your nose and mouth.
  
• Tips:
  
  • Experiment with a more open mask design, such as nasal pillows, which provide less facial coverage.
    
  • Practice relaxation techniques and gradual exposure to the mask while awake.

Pressure Discomfort:

• Problem: The fixed pressure might feel too strong initially, causing discomfort.
  
• Tips:
  
  • Use the ramp feature that starts with a lower pressure and gradually increases to the set level.
    
  • Work with your healthcare provider to adjust the pressure settings if necessary.
    

Mask Leak:

• Problem: An improper fit can lead to air leaks, reducing the therapy’s effectiveness.
  
• Tips:
  • Ensure your mask is the right size and is adjusted correctly.
    
  • Consider mask liners or different mask styles for a better seal.

Dry Mouth:

• Problem: Breathing pressurized air can dry out your mouth and throat.
  
• Tips:
  • Use a heated humidifier and tubing to add moisture to the air.
    
  • Check that your mask is well-fitted to prevent air from escaping around the mouth; consider a chin strap if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions