What is CPAP?
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is a mechanical device used to treat sleep apnea. It consists of a tube, a pressure generator and a nasal mask. It is a treatment intended for all patients with apnea (moderate to severe) to prevent airway collapse.
What does it consist of?
Pressurized air is administered through the nose with the help of a mask to avoid airway obstruction. Thanks to this device, 90% of patients resolve their disease.
The appropriate pressure will be determined after performing a pressure titration either by means of a self-regulating CPAP device or by means of nocturnal polysomnography to determine the appropriate pressure for each patient.
Why is it performed?
With sleep apnea, you can stop breathing for 10 to 30 seconds on several occasions during sleep. This can lead to various diseases such as high blood pressure or heart disease, among others.
Thanks to CPAP, it is possible to achieve:
- Lower blood pressure if it is normally high.
- Improve concentration during the day and memory.
- Provide more energy during the day.
- Improve your sleep and that of your roommate.
- Improved productivity at work.
- Reduces anxiety and depression.
- Regular sleep patterns.
Issues to consider
- Comfort: in some cases it may be uncomfortable for the patient to wear the mask, finding an appropriate mask for each patient is critical. Depending on the position it can move and be uncomfortable. It takes some getting used to.
- Nasal congestion or feeling of dryness: to avoid this, a humidifier can be used to moisten the air in the CPAP device.
- Irritation of the skin and nose: again, if the mask is not the appropriate mask or if it does not fit properly or is not the right size, some irritation may occur. The use of a different mask may solve the problem and the use of moisturizing creams may also solve the problem.
- Air leaks. Some people cannot keep their jaw closed with the mask on. A chin strap can help and prevent air from escaping or the use of naso-buccal masks that allow the patient to breathe through the mouth.
- Pressure problems: Sometimes pressure bothers people, especially when exhaling. CPAP machines are available with modalities that help improve comfort with expiratory pressure relief.
This text has been reviewed by Dr. MarÃa José Masdeu Margalef, pulmonologist at the AdSalutem Institute.