CPAP Devices – What is CPAP

Posted on August 4, 2009 in Latest News

A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device is a small machine used to help people who suffer from breathing problems while sleeping. The device uses air pressure to push the tongue forward and open throat. This allows air to pass through the throat. The patient is advised to put CPAP device on whenever he sleeps, even for naps. A CPAP device does not cure sleep apnea. But, when the device is used correctly, it alleviates sleep problems to good extent.

Construction and Working:
A CPAP device includes a mask, tubes and a fan. The main component of a CPAP device is a small, portable compartment that quietly compresses and releases air. The device works by releasing a continuous, slightly pressurized stream of air directly into a person’s nose, which allows for unobstructed breathing.

There is often a digital or analog display screen on the compartment which indicates that the CPAP device is operating and the amount of air pressure that it is generating. Medical professionals can determine, preset, and adjust air pressurization levels based on an individual’s specific condition and needs. People who experience excessive nasal dryness can obtain CPAP models that are equipped with small humidifiers.

Since it is unnecessary to continuously apply pressure to the airway even when the patient is not having an apnea, the researchers are devising CPAP that pushes air in only when the patient has apnea. Pulse oximeter is also used in latest CPAP devices to achieve this but it needs more research in this subject.

Types of CPAP devices:

Modern CPAP devices have four types of masks: Triangular masks, Oral masks, Nasal pillow masks and Hybrid masks.

There are four different types of CPAP machines:

Problems associated and Side Effects of CPAP Devices:

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