Download These Documents to Learn More About PAP Therapy
Phillips DreamStation Education
PAP Therapy Education Videos
How to set up & use your new AirSense™ 10 CPAP: | ResMed - Improve your PAP sleep therapy with myAir: |
How AutoRamp™ makes CPAP therapy more comfortable: | How humidification makes CPAP therapy more comfortable: |
CPAP FAQs
What is CPAP Therapy?
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure and is the most effective treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The CPAP machine gives air consistently through a tube and mask. CPAP therapy helps to maintain uninterrupted breathing when sleeping.
What Supplies Will I Need to Buy When First Starting CPAP Therapy?
- CPAP machine & mask
- Humidifiers, chinstraps, filters, cleaning supplies
Can I Travel with My CPAP Machine?
You can take your CPAP machine onto any airplane, and it doesn’t count as an extra item that you're carrying on the plane. You will need to take it out and place it in a bin when going through security. It’s important to bring extra supplies to make sure you are prepared for your trip and contacting your airline before the trip could be helpful in making your trip run smoothly.
How Often Do I Have to Use My CPAP?
CPAP machines provide support and treatment for sleep apnea, but it is not a cure so continuous use is recommended. For the CPAP machine to be effective, it needs to be used daily as long as you have sleep apnea. If sleep apnea is left untreated, it could bring many other health problems including high blood pressure, asthma and acid reflux.
What Causes an Individual to Have Sleep Apnea?
There are many factors that contribute to someone having sleep apnea. Weight is a big one because of gravity - individuals that are overweight have a greater risk of having sleep apnea. Along with weight, factors such as age, enlarged tonsils, frequent use of alcohol and smoking can cause sleep apnea.
How Often Should I Get a Sleep Study Done?
It is recommended that individuals are “re-titrated” once a year or if there is a significant lifestyle change in your life. It is important to keep up to date with sleep studies to make sure your treatment is still needed and effective.
What Type of Maintenance is Needed for My CPAP Machine?
It is mostly important to keep your machine clean and resupply when needed so your machine can work properly, and you can maximize the benefits of the CPAP therapy.
What Side Effects Come with CPAP Therapy?
The two most common side effects are dry mouth and feeling bloated or like there is air in the stomach. You can usually increase the humidity levels on your machine and change sleeping positions to combat these side effects.