Sleep apnea is a is a chronic condition in which sleep is continually interrupted due to air passage blockage. The constriction of soft tissue in the breathing passage may be remedied with an apparatus prescribed by a physician. The patient may even be helped by a temporary mask that can be ordered online. More than just a snoring problem, the sleep interruptions that come with sleep apnea keep the sufferer from getting deep, healthy sleep and may affect awake-time mood and alertness.
Function
Sleep apnea masks incorporate an air pump and snug-fitting mask to deliver continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to the sleep apnea patient. Such masks can be fitted by a physician, but CPAP machines often have a soft plastic boot with embedded wiring that can be form fitted to the individual. This "one size fits all" mask may have an inflatable fit to the mouthpiece or a gel-like rubber contact point with the face to prevent air leakage. Tubing leads to an air pump, which helps keep the air passages open and functioning throughout the sleep time for the patient.
Considerations
How much pressure an air pump will need for a particular patient is likely to be measured while the patient is asleep at a sleep clinic. It is important that the sleep mask fit properly and that breathing interruptions be regulated with properly measured air flow during sleep.
Significance
Simple snoring difficulties, as annoying as they may be to a patient's partner or family, can likely be accommodated without the aid of a sleep apnea mask. Sometimes just turning on your side, losing some weight or not ingesting alcohol before bedtime may be all that is needed to stop loud and disruptive snoring. Make sure you have a real sleep apnea diagnosis before going the sleep apnea mask route.
Types
Sleep apnea masks may cover the nasal passages or the complete mouth and nasal areas in the case of mouth breathing. The apparatus is held in place with a harness, which may come with the mask or sold separately, depending on the manufacturer. Other appliances include nasal tubes with pressurized air and a mouth appliance that moves the lower jaw forward for better air passage.
Time Frame
The sleep mask may be used temporarily to determine if any other course of action will accomplish normal sleep without continued use of the mask. Further treatments could include corrective surgery, medication or changes of sleep positions, which might circumvent long-term use of a CPAP mask.
