What is CPAP?

CPAP, the abbreviation for continuous positive airway pressure therapy, is a treatment method
for patients who have sleep apnea. CPAP machines use mild air pressure to keep the airways
open, and are typically used by patients who have breathing problems during sleep. More
specifically, what CPAP therapy helps accomplish is making sure that your airway doesn't
collapse when you breathe while asleep.

What CPAP therapy looks like

CPAP therapy involves a CPAP machine, which comprises the following:

 A mask that covers your nose and mouth, a mask that covers your nose only, or even
prongs that fit into your nose.
 A tube that connects the mask to the CPAP machine's motor.
 A motor that blows air into the tube.

Who is it for?

CPAP therapy is one of the most recommended treatment options for patients who
have obstructive sleep apnea, in which not enough air reaches your lungs. CPAP therapy is also
is used to treat infants whose lungs have not fully developed. The CPAP machine blows air into
the baby's nose to help inflate his or her lungs. 

When you are prescribed to a CPAP machine, you will work with your sleep technologist to
make sure that the settings that are prescribed to you work best for you. It is every sleep
technologist's concern that the air pressure from the machine is just enough to keep your
airway open while you sleep.

There are many kinds of CPAP machines and masks. So don't be shy in letting your doctor and
sleep technologist know that the type you're working with isn't the most comfortable. 

The adjustment process for CPAP therapy is different for every patient. Some patients take
months to adjust to CPAP therapy while others can take only a few days.
Why use CPAP?

Although there is a noted adjustment period to using CPAP therapy, following this method of
treatment can pay off significantly in the end.

 Keep your airway open while you sleep.

 Reduce or eliminate your snoring altogether.
 Improve your quality of sleep.
 Reduce or eliminate daytime sleepiness, a symptom of sleep apnea.
 Circumvent or significantly reduce high blood pressure.

Side effects of CPAP therapy

Some of the most common side effects from CPAP therapy are the following:

 The feeling of claustrophobia under the CPAP mask

 Nasal congestion or runny nose

But these side effects can be prevented if you check that your mask is fitted appropriately.
Nasal symptoms mentioned above can be alleviated through heated humidification of the CPAP
air. Most CPAP machines come with a heated humidifier, so make sure you take advantage of
this.

How soon will you feel the effects of CPAP therapy?

You will most likely feel the effects of CPAP therapy as soon as you start it. Many studies have
shown that the maximum effect of therapy is usually achieved in about 2 weeks or so. If you still
feel sleepiness after 2-4 weeks, then you should consult your sleep physician on what might be
the underlying cause of persistent daytime drowsiness.

Best practices for a good CPAP therapy experience

Consider using these tips to make sure that your CPAP therapy experience is one that is easily
adjustable and comfortable.

1. Test out your CPAP machine for short periods of time during the day
Whether it's when you're reading a book or surfing the web, try putting the mask on for short
periods of time before you sleep. This will help you get used to wearing your mask to sleep.

2. Use CPAP every night and for every nap

Whether you are getting a little shut-eye or going to sleep, make sure you're in the habit of
using your CPAP machine during all stages and occasions of sleep. Using CPAP therapy
erratically reduces your chances of getting better soon.

3. Refrain from huge adjustments to your CPAP machine

The most common problems of adjusting to CPAP treatment occur when your mask is not put
on comfortably. Make sure you make small adjustments to your mask to ensure that it fits right.
If your mask is still not comfortable even after you make slight adjustments to it, you may need
new CPAP gear.

4. Try using the ramp mode 

If you feel like the air pressure is too high, then try using the ramp mode on your CPAP
machine. What this will do is gradually increase the air pressure as you fall asleep.

5. Use a saline nasal spray to ease mild nasal congestion

Try using a nasal spray or decongestant if you easily suffer from nasal decongestion.

6. Place foam under the CPAP machine

If you want to quiet your CPAP machine as you fall asleep, we recommend that you use this
trick.

7. Don't forget to clean your CPAP equipment

Make sure you clean your mask, tubing and headgear at least once a week. Make sure to set a
reminder for yourself, so you don't end up getting grossed out by your own CPAP gear.

If you're still facing problems with your CPAP gear

Contact your sleep technologist to receive expert advice on how to use your CPAP machine.
Step-by-Step Instructions for How to Setup and Use a CPAP Machine

If you’ve been given a prescription for a CPAP machine, it’s normal to have questions about
how to set it up and use it in the right way. The process is straightforward and follows a series
of steps.

Find a Good Space to Put the CPAP Machine

A first step is deciding where you’re going to put the CPAP. A good space for your device meets
these characteristics:

Provides stable support to the base of the CPAP

Allows the hose to reach the head of the bed
Close enough to an outlet so that you can easily plug in the machine
Permits unobstructed ability to turn on the device, open the filter compartment, and add water
to the humidifier
For most people, the optimal spot is on a nightstand or small table next to their bed.

Check the Filter

The CPAP machine comes with a replaceable filter, but the exact type of filter depends on your
device. There is usually a small compartment in which the filter fits snugly. Written instructions
or instructions from your sleep technician should provide specific details about the filter in your
CPAP machine.

Attach the Hose to the CPAP Machine

The machine has a special connector for the hose. The hose should attach and stay in place
without exerting considerable force or effort.

Attach the Hose to the Mask

The other end of the hose plugs into the mask and should create a tight connection, sometimes
by clicking into place.

Set Up the Humidifier (When Applicable)

Many CPAP machines have an attached humidifier to moisturize the air so that it’s less likely to
dry out your mouth and throat over the course of the night.

If your CPAP has a humidifier, fill it with distilled water only. Using distilled water prevents
mineral buildup or any impurity issues that can come from using tap water.

The humidifier reservoir should have a clear “MAX” fill line. Be careful not to exceed that level,
which can cause water to enter the hose.

Plug in the CPAP

Make sure that the power cord is properly attached to the CPAP device, and then plug the
device into an electrical outlet.

Put On and Adjust the Mask

There are several types of masks that can be used with a CPAP. Full-face masks go over your
nose and mouth. Other masks go over the nose or just underneath it. Your doctor or sleep
specialist will recommend a mask based on several factors including how you breathe, the
pressure you need, and your sleeping position.

Regardless of the type of mask you use, it will be held in place using one or more straps that go
around the top and/or back of your head.

Start by positioning the mask on your face, and then attach or pull the straps to secure it. The
mask should form a seal against your face, but it should not pinch or press deeply into your
skin. Adjust the length of the straps to find a comfortable fit.

Turn On the Device

Once you have the mask in place, you can turn on your CPAP machine. The pressure settings
will have already been set by your health care team, so you should be able to plug-and-play.

When the machine is on, you will notice pressurized air coming through the mask. If you hear
air escaping from the mask, it’s a sign that you need to adjust it for a tighter seal. Some CPAP
machines have a function to test whether the mask has a good seal.

When the device is turned on, you can decide whether to use the Ramp function. This starts
with lower pressure that gradually increases before reaching your prescribed pressure for the
night. Some people like to ease into their sleep with the Ramp function while others like to
have full pressure from the start.

Find a Comfortable Sleeping Position

Test out a few sleeping positions to find those that are comfortable for your body, don’t
interfere with your ability to wear the mask, and don’t pinch or block the hose.