What is sleep apnea and CPAP therapy?
People with sleep apnea stop breathing or take shallow breaths for anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes while sleeping. This can happen as often as 30 times or more per hour. Snoring or choking can occur when normal breathing begins after a period of apnea.
OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) is the most common type of breathing disruption during sleep. Airflow is blocked by the tongue and collapse of the soft tissue in the back of the throat. CSA (Central sleep apnea) occurs when your brain doesn't send the correct signals to your breathing muscles while you are sleeping.
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. CPAP therapy uses a pump to send pressurized air into a patient’s nasal passages and throat to keep the airway to the lungs open. The pump is connected to a mask or nasal pillow system. CPAP masks come in different shapes, sizes and materials to ensure comfort and effectiveness. CPAP systems include a flow generator (CPAP machine), mask, tubing, mask cushion or liner, filter and optional humidifier.