Nasal CPAP

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Nasal CPAP

CPAP stands for "continuous positive airway pressure." CPAP is a treatment that delivers slightly pressurized air during the breathing cycle.

This keeps the windpipe open during sleep and prevents the episodes of blocked breathing in persons with obstructive sleep apnea and other respiratory problems.

It is sometimes called nasal continuous positive airflow pressure (nCPAP).

Continuous positive airway pressure; CPAP; Bilevel positive airway pressure; BiPAP

WHO SHOULD USE CPAP

Continuous positive airflow pressure (CPAP) is the best treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It is safe and effective in patients of all ages, including children.

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After using CPAP regularly, many patients report the following:

• Better concentration and memory
• Feeling more alert and less sleepy during the day
• Improved sleep for the person's bed partners
• Improvements in work productivity
• Less anxiety and depression and a better mood
• Normal sleep patterns

A similar machine, called BiPAP (for bilevel positive airway pressure) is used as an alternative to CPAP. With this machine, the pressure changes while a person breathes in and out.

These devices are useful for children and adults with collapsible airways, small lung volumes, or muscle weakness that makes it difficult to breathe.

CPAP or BiPAP may also be used by people who have:

• Acute respiratory failure
• Central sleep apnea
• COPD
• Heart failure

HOW CPAP WORKS

CPAP works in the following way:

• The device is a machine weighing about 5 pounds that fits on a bedside table.
• A mask fits over the nose. A tube connects the mask to the CPAP device.
• The machine delivers a steady stream of air under slight pressure through this tube into the mask.

The doctor, nurse, or therapist will help choose the mask that fits you best. They will also help adjust the settings on the machine. The settings on the CPAP machine depend on the severity of your sleep apnea.

If you are using the CPAP machine but your sleep apnea symptoms do not improve, the settings on the machine may need to be changed. Some patients can be taught to adjust the CPAP at home. Otherwise, you will need to make trips to the sleep center.