CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, and it is a therapy used for individuals who suffer from sleep apnea. The machine delivers a continuous stream of air pressure into the person's respiratory system to reduce the risk that he will not receive enough oxygen during sleep. Once the sufferer has been prescribed CPAP therapy, she will require an interface between the machine that delivers the pressurized air and her respiratory system. Improvements in these interfaces have recently led to nasal pillows.
Options
Individuals who suffer from sleep apnea have several different facial masks that deliver positive airway pressure. The nasal pillow is often better tolerated because it is easier for sufferers to sleep on their side or their stomach, is better for individuals who have facial hair, gives minimal contact with the face and is more adjustable to an individual's unique facial structure.
Opus 360
This pillow mask is manufactured by Fisher and Paykel Healthcare. It has nasal cannula type attachments that are cushioned by small pillows. The cannula fits snugly on the outside of the nose. A short plastic tubing extends from the cannula over the top of the head and attaches to the headgear. The company explains that this allows for almost any sleeping position without dislodging the mask. There is a 360-degree ball and socket elbow provided with the interface to achieve greater versatility.
Nasal Aire
InnoMed Technologies has several featured options using their Nasal-Aire technology and micro-headgear. The Nasal-Aire delivery system is protected by a U.S. patent and features a laminar float for maximum efficiency and comfort. The petite version has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration for use with children 7 and older who weigh more than 40 pounds. The Freestyle model is available in seven sizes and does not touch the face at any place. The company also has a critical care model that is available for use on the hospital market and is a disposable option that allows for monitoring or oxygen administration.
ResMed Swift
ResMed produces the Swift FX, an option that is simple, soft and stable even at high pressures. The Swift LT for Her is the first CPAP mask designed especially for women. It features no forehead support, a soft-wrapped 50 percent smaller frame that is perfect for side sleeping, quiet functioning and adjustable back straps that can be worn over or under her hair. The Mirage Swift Two is a nasal pillow system that allows for a clear field of vision, lightweight design, interchangeable tube positions and fits a wide variety of facial and nasal structures.
OptiLife
This nasal pillow solution is produced by Philips Respironics. The company designed this option to be easy to assemble, easy to clean and able to fit into their patients' lifestyles. This model uses a chin strap support without buckles that allows it to be adjusted with little effort. The product can be put into place with one hand, but it's robust enough to stand up to the demands of daily use. Ideal for a new patient using a CPAP machine, the product is also latex-free.
ComfortLife 2
Philips Respironics also produces the ComfortLite 2 with three interchangeable cushion options and a headgear system that places no pressure on your face. Like other nasal pillow masks produced by Philips Respironics, it is also latex-free. The headgear straps are made from flexible fabric and can be configured three ways to fit most comfortably on the patient's unique facial structure.
