CPAP, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, treats breathing problems such as sleep apnea and chronic snoring, giving people healthier sleep and helping them enjoy better daytime alertness.1
CPAP applies mild air pressure to a person's upper airway to keep their airway open so that they can breathe normally while they sleep.
CPAP uses an air pump and mask to deliver mild air pressure to the upper airway of a person while they sleep. The air pressure can be constant or variable depending on the type of machine. For example – fixed pressure machines, generally referred to as CPAP machines, deliver a constant air pressure while the person is sleeping. Automatic, or Auto-Titrating Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) machines, have an in-built algorithm that delivers a variable air pressure according to the person's needs.1
The CPAP pump takes in room air, pressurises it and then transports the pressurised air through a tube and mask and delivers it via the person’s nose (or nose and mouth) into their upper airway (throat). The pressurised air prevents their upper airway from collapsing, allowing them to breathe more normally while they sleep.
CPAP relies on two main parts: the pump and the mask.
CPAP masks come in all shapes and sizes. There are 4 types of sleep apnea masks: nasal pillows, nasal masks, full-face masks, and oral masks. Each mask fits slightly differently. In consultation with a Resmed sleep coach, you select the mask type that fits best and you find most comfortable. Finding a mask that suits you while you are asleep is essential to successful CPAP therapy, so make sure you try on a CPAP mask while you are lying down. If you'd like to book an appointment to find the right mask for you, simply get in contact with us to arrange a time that suits you.
As mentioned earlier, there are 2 types of CPAP pumps: fixed pressure and automatic pressure. Fixed pressure pumps apply continuous pressure that has been pre-set to suit your specific requirements.
Automatic pressure pumps monitor airflow and continuously adjust air pressure based on your changing needs throughout the night. These kinds of pumps are most useful for people whose pressure requirements vary during sleep. We can help you decide which of these is best for you.