About the CPAP Machine
Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, is a type of therapy used to treat sleep apnea. A CPAP machine is used to prevent the obstruction of airways during sleep caused by this disorder. The machine has a connective tube and a mask to be worn over your nose. There are a number of different machines with varying features and functions, but they all generally use the same method to open up airways.
Keeping Airways Open
The machine's mask covers your nose and mouth to provide air to your lungs, or there may be prongs that are inserted into your nose. The CPAP machine contains an air filter and distilled water to humidify the air and reduce irritation. The machine is connected to the mask via a tube and it pushes air through it providing consistent pressure that allows you to breathe freely.
How it Helps Sleep Apnea
In sleep apnea the windpipe becomes blocked, cutting off air supply to the lungs. Air flow can be obstructed for as long as 30 seconds and can happen as many as 400 times per night, says the American Academy of Family Physicians. With the machine providing pressure the airways remain open and breathing isn't stopped, allowing for a much safer night's sleep.
