What You Need To Know About CPAP Machines

If you suffer from Sleep Apnea or Snoring, one of the best, non-surgical treatments is a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine.

CPAP machines help to maintain open airways throughout the night by delivering compressed air through a hose and CPAP mask to the airway.

• The actual CPAP machine, also known as the flow generator, provides the airflow
• A hose that connects the CPAP machine to the mask
• A mask, can be a nasal, full face mask, nasal pillows, or (not so often) a lip-seal mouthpiece to provide the connection to your airway.

• Humidifiers:  Can eliminate dryness that is associated with compressed air
• Mask Liners: Will help to prevent air leakage around the mask; will reduce any potential skin irritation
• Ramp:  Can temporarily lowerand gradually increase air pressure to the prescribed level over a period of time, as the users sleep changes
• Exhale Pressure Relief:  Air Pressure is dropped from your CPAP machine momentarily to lower the effort needed to exhale
• Data Logging Capabilities: This helps both patients and physicians monitor compliance and determine if the treatment is still effective
• Flexible Chin Straps:  Will help to prevent a dry mouth by keeping the user’s mouth closed
• Automatic altitude adjustments

In order to maintain the optimum function and prolong the life of your CPAP equipment, each piece needs to be cleaned and serviced regularly

It is easy to keep your equipment clean by following the suggestions from one of my other hubs: How-To Build a CPAP Cleaning Kit