There are several different appliances used for the treatment of sleep apnea, which is a disorder characterized the by narrowing or obstruction of the airway during the night. The most common sleep apnea device is the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Other machines used to treat sleep apnea include the variable positive airway pressure (VPAP) machine, also known as the bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine, and the automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) machine. All sleep apnea appliances work by blowing air through a mask and into the airway, with the CPAP blowing at a consistent pressure, the APAP regulating the pressure and adjusting it with each breath, and the VPAP changing pressure as the patient inhales and exhales.
A patient who has been diagnosed with sleep apnea is often given a prescription for a sleep apnea device. With a prescription, the individual is free to determine which of the sleep apnea appliances best fits his or her lifestyle and situation. Because the APAP is automatic and able to adjust pressure based on the patient's current needs, it can be very comfortable and effective. This unique piece of sleep apnea equipment can sense the need to change pressure when the patient has a cold, changes positions, or moves through the sleep cycle. An APAP machine will continue to adapt to the patient's needs throughout the night, maintaining the minimum amount of pressure required to keep an open airway.
The VPAP machine, also known as the BiPAP machine, is called "variable" or "bi-level" because it can change pressure based on whether the patient is inhaling or exhaling. This capability can increase comfort for an individual who finds it difficult to adjust to a basic CPAP. Because the CPAP blows at a continuous pressure throughout the night, some people might experience a feeling of panic or claustrophobia when attempting to exhale against the constant air pressure. The VPAP and APAP sleep apnea appliances are typically more expensive than a basic CPAP, making the CPAP a valuable option for patients on a budget or without medical insurance coverage.
Sleep apnea appliances can be customized to the patient's needs with the addition of different accessories such as masks, humidifiers, and tubing. There are a variety of different mask types available, including nasal masks, oral masks, and whole face masks. Tubing is manufactured in an array of lengths and diameters. The addition of a humidifier can increase comfort for the individual experiencing dryness or irritation from his sleep apnea equipment.
The side effects of untreated sleep apnea are unhealthy and uncomfortable. The addition of sleep apnea appliances, particularly for those with moderate to severe sleep apnea, can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of the disorder. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as excessive sleepiness, depression, snoring, or gasping or choking during the night can contact a health professional regarding the possibility of sleep apnea or the need for therapy using sleep apnea appliances.