What Is CPAP Therapy?

09/07/2025
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CPAP therapy, which stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy, is a common treatment for sleep-related breathing disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. It involves using a machine that delivers a continuous flow of air at a prescribed pressure through a mask or nosepiece to keep the airway open while the person sleeps.

 

What it treats:

CPAP therapy is primarily used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where the airway repeatedly collapses or becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing to stop and start. It can also be used for other breathing problems, including those in premature infants with underdeveloped lungs according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 

 

How it works:

A CPAP machine has a motor that generates a stream of air, which is then delivered through a tube to a mask or nosepiece worn by the user. The continuous airflow creates positive pressure in the airway, preventing it from collapsing and ensuring a clear passage for breathing. 

 

Benefits:

CPAP therapy helps people with sleep apnea sleep better by reducing or eliminating breathing interruptions, leading to improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, and reduced daytime sleepiness. It can also help reduce the risk of other health problems associated with sleep apnea, such as cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, and diabetes

 

Effectiveness:

CPAP therapy is highly effective in managing sleep apnea, but compliance is key. Regular use of the prescribed CPAP machine is necessary for optimal results, as breathing difficulties may return if the therapy is discontinued. 

 

Equipment:

A CPAP machine consists of a motor, a tube, and a mask or nosepiece. Some machines also include a humidifier to make the airflow more comfortable. 

 

Other applications:

While CPAP is primarily known for treating sleep apnea, it can also be used in other situations where positive airway pressure is needed, such as in neonatal intensive care units for infants with breathing problems according to Cleveland Clinic. 

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