Shopping for a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine can be a daunting undertaking, especially for someone with a new sleep apnea diagnosis. If you’re at the point where you’ve researched the benefits of CPAP therapy and decided it’s worth it to take the leap and get a prescription, you’re likely already finding comfort knowing you’re on your way to better sleep.
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There are two types of sleep apnea: OSA and central sleep apnea (CSA). The most common form, OSA, occurs when the upper airway is blocked recurrently during sleep. This form of sleep apnea is treated with CPAP, as well as additional methods of reducing the frequency of the blockages.
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Sleep apnea can’t be cured, but treatments can help improve sleep by reducing the number of breathing interruptions.
Automatic positive airway pressure (APAP): APAP machines offer greater flexibility than other devices by automatically adjusting as you breathe and responding to your specific needs and breathing patterns. APAP can detect snoring or airway obstruction and automatically increase or decrease the pressure.
The stimulation should not be painful or uncomfortable and the level is adjustable. Your Inspire therapy-trained doctor will make any adjustments as needed.
It is used to successfully extubate patients that might still benefit from positive pressure but who may not need invasive ventilation, such as obese patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or patients with congestive heart failure.
By stimulating these muscles, the airway remains open during sleep. Inspire is controlled by a small handheld remote. The remote allows you to turn Inspire therapy on before bed and off when you wake up, adjust stimulation strength and pause during the night if needed.
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Although both weight loss and CPAP treatment are considered effective ways of reducing OSA symptoms, research is conflicting.
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CPAP is often prescribed by the primary care provider, nurse practitioner, internist and the neurologist for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. However, in order to have good compliance, patient education is vital. Many patients use these devices for a short time because of discomfort.
Make sure you have your machine checked regularly by an expert from the company that makes the device.