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Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (Cpap): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Last Updated: Jul 04, 2023

What is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

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CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is a type of artificial ventilation used to treat sleep apnea. Continuous positive airway pressure is one approach of treating sleep apnea (CPAP). While sleeping, this gadget constantly delivers air through a mask placed over the mouth or nose.

Types of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

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  • Fixed CPAP: This type of CPAP delivers a single, constant air pressure throughout the night. It is the most commonly used type of CPAP and is typically recommended for people who suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnea.
  • Auto-CPAP (APAP): This kind of CPAP regulates air pressure all during the course of the night to offer optimal comfort and efficiency. It is often advised for those with more severe sleep apnea since it might offer more individualised therapy than fixed CPAP.
  • Bi-level or Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): This type of CPAP provides two different levels of pressure – a higher pressure when inhaling and a lower pressure when exhaling – in order to make breathing easier and more comfortable for sleep apnea patients. It is typically recommended for people who have difficulty using regular CPAP machines due to their breathing patterns or other medical conditions.
  • Adaptive Servo Ventilation (ASV): This type of CPAP adjusts both the inspiratory positive airway pressure (IPAP) and expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) in order to provide effective treatment for central sleep apnea, complex sleep apnea, and Cheyne-Stokes respiration (CSR). It is typically recommended for people with more complex cases of sleep apnea that do not respond well to other types of therapy such as fixed or auto-CPAP machines.

Benefits of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

  • Improved sleep quality: CPAP keeps the airways open during sleep, allowing for better oxygenation and improved overall sleep quality.
  • Reduced snoring: CPAP can reduce or eliminate snoring, which can help improve relationships with sleeping partners.
  • Reduced daytime fatigue: OSA can cause daytime fatigue due to lack of restful sleep, but CPAP can help reduce this symptom by improving overall sleep quality.
  • Improved mental health: OSA is linked to depression and anxiety, but using CPAP may help reduce these symptoms due to improved restful sleep and reduced snoring.
  • Lower blood pressure: OSA increases the risk for high blood pressure, but using CPAP may help lower blood pressure levels by improving restful sleep and reducing stress levels associated with poor breathing during sleep.
  • Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke: OSA increases the risk for heart attack and stroke, but using CPAP may help reduce this risk by improving restful sleep and reducing stress levels associated with poor breathing during sleep as well as lowering blood pressure levels in some cases.

Why is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) done?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a form of therapy used to treat sleep apnea, a condition in which the patient experiences pauses in their breathing during sleep.

This pressurised air helps keep the patient’s airway open, preventing pauses in breathing and allowing them to get a better night’s rest. CPAP is also used to treat other conditions such as snoring, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and congestive heart failure.

The benefits of CPAP are numerous, including improved quality of sleep, fewer daytime sleepiness episodes, reduced risk of cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack, and improved overall health.

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What are the risks of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

While CPAP is usually thought to be safe, it does have some dangers and adverse effects. These are some examples:

  • Skin irritation: CPAP masks can cause skin irritation or pressure sores if they are not fitted properly. It is critical that the mask fits properly and is updated on a regular basis.
  • Nasal congestion: CPAP can cause nasal congestion due to the air pressure that it delivers, which may lead to discomfort or difficulty breathing.
  • Dry mouth/nose: The air delivered by the CPAP machine can dry out the mouth and nose, leading to discomfort.
  • Eye irritation: Some people experience eye irritation from the air pressure of the machine or from wearing a mask for extended periods of time.
  • Ear pain: The air pressure from CPAP machines can cause ear pain in some people who use them.
  • Mask leaks: If the seal between your face and your mask isn't tight enough, then you may experience leaking of air around your face which can be uncomfortable and reduce the effectiveness of treatment.

How do I prepare for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

  • Your doctor can provide information on how to use the device, what type of mask is best for you, and any other questions you may have.
  • Read the instruction manual that comes with your CPAP machine and make sure you understand how it works and how to use it correctly.
  • Make sure your CPAP machine is set up in a comfortable spot in your bedroom where it won’t be disturbed during the night.
  • Clean and maintain your CPAP machine regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, including changing filters as needed and cleaning hoses and masks regularly with warm soapy water or a cleaning solution specifically designed for CPAP machines.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing when sleeping with your CPAP device to ensure that the straps don't put too much pressure on your face or body while sleeping at night.
  • Practice using your mask before bedtime by wearing it for short periods of time during the day so that you get used to having it on overnight when sleeping with it at night

How Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is done?

  • It works by delivering a constant stream of air pressure through a mask worn over the nose and/or mouth while sleeping. The air pressure keeps the airway open, allowing oxygen to enter the lungs freely.
  • CPAP machines are normally installed in a patient's bedroom and are powered by an outlet. A customised mask that fits securely over the patient's nose and/or mouth is worn.
  • The CPAP machine supplies pressurised air at a certain level of pressure, which is determined by the doctor based on the patient’s individual needs. This pressurised air helps keep the throat open so that normal breathing can occur during sleep.
  • The CPAP machine also monitors how well it is working by measuring changes in breathing patterns and oxygen levels throughout the night. If there are any problems or if adjustments need to be made, the doctor can be notified so that treatment can be adjusted accordingly.
  • CPAP therapy has been found to be very effective in treating sleep apnea and other related conditions such as snoring and upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). It has also been shown to improve quality of life for those who suffer from these conditions by reducing daytime fatigue, improving mood, increasing energy levels, and improving overall health.

Steps to perform Before the procedure

  • Explain the procedure to the patient
  • Ascertain that the patient is at ease and relaxed.
  • Place electrodes on the patient’s chest to monitor heart rate and breathing
  • Fit a CPAP mask over the nose and mouth of the patient
  • Connect the CPAP mask to a machine that will deliver air pressure

Steps to perform During the procedure

  • Start with a low pressure setting on the machine and gradually increase it until it reaches an optimal level for each individual patient
  • Monitor heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and other vital signs throughout the procedure
  • Reassure and comfort the patient during any discomfort or anxiety they may experience during treatment

Steps to perform After The Procedure

  • Remove CPAP mask from face of patient
  • Disconnect all components from machine
  • Clean all equipment used during procedure
  • Check vital signs again before releasing patient From care

How much does Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) cost in India?

Generally, CPAP machines can range from around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000 or more depending on the features and accessories included.

Furthermore, certain brands may provide discounts or packages that could lower the entire cost.

What to eat after Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

  • After using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, it is critical to eat a nutritious, balanced diet (CPAP).
  • Eating foods that are high in protein, fibre, and complex carbohydrates will help give you the energy you need to stay active and alert.
  • Examples of good post-CPAP foods include lean proteins such as fish, poultry, and legumes; whole grains like quinoa, barley, and oats; fruits and vegetables; low-fat dairy products; nuts and seeds; and healthy fats such as olive oil.

Is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) safe?

  • Yes, most individuals believe that Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is safe..
  • CPAP is a non-invasive form of treatment for sleep apnea, and it works by providing a steady stream of air pressure to keep your airways open while you sleep.
  • This aids in the prevention of snoring and other breathing issues linked with sleep apnea.
  • While there are some potential side effects associated with CPAP, such as nasal congestion or dryness, these can usually be managed through proper use of the machine and adjustments to the settings. CPAP is generally regarded as a safe and efficient treatment for sleep apnea.

Is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) painful?

  • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is not painful.
  • CPAP is a non-invasive form of treatment for sleep apnea that uses a machine to deliver a continuous flow of air pressure through a mask that covers the nose and mouth.
  • The air pressure helps keep the airways open during sleep, allowing the user to breathe more easily and preventing pauses in breathing.
  • While some people experience mild discomfort when first using CPAP, it is not typically painful.

How long does it take to recover from Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

Generally, most people who use CPAP therapy will begin to experience relief from their symptoms within a few days or weeks of beginning treatment.

However, in some cases, it may take up to several months before the full benefits of CPAP therapy are realised.

Additionally, some individuals may need to make lifestyle changes such as weight loss or quitting smoking in order to maximise the effectiveness of CPAP therapy.

What are the side effects of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

  • Dry nose, mouth, and throat
  • Nasal congestion or irritation
  • Abdominal bloating or discomfort
  • Skin irritation from the mask
  • Feeling claustrophobic or uncomfortable with the mask
  • Feeling tired during the day due to lack of quality sleep
  • Difficulty falling asleep with the CPAP machine in use
  • Leaking air from the mask or tubing
  • Nosebleeds due to excessive
  • dryness in the nasal passages

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Aftercare

  • Patients using CPAP should follow their doctor’s instructions for use and care of their equipment.
  • This includes cleaning the mask regularly, replacing filters when needed, and checking for proper fit.
  • Patients should also avoid eating or drinking anything shortly before using CPAP as this can cause discomfort or lead to an improper seal with the mask.
  • It is also important to keep track of any changes in symptoms while using CPAP so that adjustments can be made if needed.
  • In addition to following instructions for use and care, patients should also make sure they are getting enough restful sleep while using CPAP therapy. This includes avoiding activities such as watching television or working on a computer before bedtime as these can interfere with falling asleep quickly or staying asleep throughout the night.

Conclusion

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a form of treatment for sleep apnea that has proven to be highly effective in improving the quality of sleep and reducing the symptoms associated with the disorder.

CPAP reduces snoring, daytime weariness, and other symptoms of sleep apnea. CPAP also reduces the risk of developing more serious health complications such as stroke, heart attack, and high blood pressure.

While there are some potential side effects associated with CPAP use, such as dry mouth and skin irritation, these can usually be managed with proper maintenance and care. Overall, CPAP is an effective treatment option for those suffering from sleep apnea that can help improve quality of life.

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Written ByDrx Hina FirdousPhD (Pharmacology) Pursuing, M.Pharma (Pharmacology), B.Pharma - Certificate in Nutrition and Child CarePharmacology
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Reviewed ByDr. Bhupindera Jaswant SinghMD - Consultant PhysicianGeneral Physician

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