How to choose Cpap Machine?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a method of treating certain sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD) such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). CPAP machine, also sometimes termed ‘flow generators’ or ‘blowers’, create a continuous flow of air to achieve a target pressure. CPAP therapy primarily works by providing a pneumatic splint to the collapsible muscular structure of the upper airway in the treatment of SRBD. Another mechanism of the action for CPAP is thought to be increased functional residual capacity (FRC) of the lungs.

 An increased lung volume is thought to provide traction to the trachea and pharynx and thus indirectly increase the diameter of the pharyngeal airway. Increased FRC and decreased work of breathing are important when treating hypoxemic respiratory failure with CPAP; however, experiments conducted by Abbey et al. did not support the notion of increased FRC as a factor in overcoming OSA. In the treatment of CSA, CPAP is thought to reverse the activation of upper airway receptors, which cause reflex central apnea when the airway collapses, particularly in the supine position.

The first step is choosing the right machine. Features to consider include sound levels, ramp features, and Bluetooth compatibility for data collection and analysis. The unit then begins by taking room air, not oxygen, and passing it through a filter to screen out impurities. It is then pressurized according to your physician’s recommended settings or a range if using an auto CPAP machine. Machines deliver a pressure between 4 centimeters of water pressure (CWP) to 25 CWP. Air is generally passed through a heated humidifier to add moisture to the air to prevent dry mouth, throat, or nasal cavities. It is then delivered via a tube to the CPAP mask.