People with obstructive sleep apnea have an abnormal sleep cycle that develops when the muscles at the back of their throats relax, allowing their airways to narrow or collapse. These people fall asleep and soon start snoring. As they fall deeper into sleep, they experience apnea, or intermittent pauses in their breathing. Oxygen levels drop, leading to choking or gagging that restarts the breathing, says the Mayo Clinic. A bilevel positive airway pressure, or BiPAP, machine can be an effective treatment for sleep apnea.
Identification
Although there are a number of BiPAP machines on the market, they all have three basic components: a programmable unit that compresses the air, a nasal or face mask with adjustable headgear; and tubing that connects the machine to the mask. Some units come with options such as a built-in humidifier and small ports to connect oxygen tubing. The American Sleep Apnea Association recommends that BiPAP users try out different masks and headgear to ensure a comfortable and effective fit.
Function
A BiPAP machine helps stop sleep apnea and snoring by delivering compressed air at one predetermined pressure during inhalation and a different pressure during exhalation to prevent the upper airways from collapsing, the Mayo Clinic says.
Benefits
Once their obstructive sleep apnea is controlled by BiPAP, users report they enjoy more normal and restful sleep, feel more alert and productive during the day, have better memory and concentration and feel less anxiety and depression. In addition, MedlinePlus says, bed partners appreciate a better night's sleep as well.
Long-Term Effects
People who experience years of untreated obstructive sleep apnea may develop complications such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and stroke, says the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Effective management of sleep apnea with BiPAP therapy reduces the risk of these complications while improving quality of life.
Tips
Many people experience an adjustment period while they get used to the sights, feels and sounds of BiPAP therapy. It's important to work closely with a physician or a sleep care professional to ensure the mask and headgear fit comfortably and the air pressures are set at optimal levels, the Mayo Clinic says.
