Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is one of the leading sleep apnea therapies. Here, our Delta dentists describe how CPAP works, and how it can help you get a better night’s sleep.
Sleep apnea causes one to stop breathing regularly during sleep. The stops in breathing can occur as many as 30 times in an hour, and are the result of their airways getting closed or blocked.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy involves a facial or nasal mask that is connected to a pump and worn during sleep. The mask and pump create a positive, regular airflow into the nasal passages, effectively keeping the airway open.
Depending on the type of CPAP device you have, the mask may go over the nose, fit under the nose, or go over the mouth and nose together, or fit over the entire face.
Side effects of CPAP are not significant. They include sore eyes, headaches, nasal congestion, abdominal bloating, and general discomfort. These side effects are typically present as the patient becomes accustomed to the appliance, and most people overcome them over the course of 2 weeks to 3 months.
Most CPAP users report immediate sleep apnea symptom relief, and find they get a much better night’s sleep. This in turn results in a steep increase in energy and mental sharpness throughout the day.