Snoring and sleep apnea are common, affecting tens of millions of people across the country. While they may seem like minor problems, they can severely affect your sleep quality and have far-reaching implications for your overall health. 

Thankfully, CPAP machines are a safe, effective, and time-tested treatment for sleep apnea and snoring. While it can take some time to get used to, this device can resolve your symptoms and dramatically improve your quality of life. 

What Do CPAP Machines Do?

CPAP machines deliver air directly into the airway through a nasal mask. The air flows while you sleep, creating enough pressure as you inhale to keep the airway open. This alleviates snoring and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, like fatigue during the day. 

Types of CPAP Machines

There are three main types of CPAP machines:

• CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure)
• APAP (auto-adjusting positive airway pressure)
• BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure)

Your otolaryngologist can help determine the best type of CPAP machine for your needs. For example, if you toss and turn frequently while you sleep, an APAP machine may be the best option, as it can adjust the air pressure to account for changes in your breathing patterns, which may change with new sleeping positions. 

Adjusting to Your CPAP Machine

Starting CPAP therapy is a significant change in your sleeping routine. But, with some time, you’ll get used to the treatment and reap its many benefits, including higher-quality sleep. 

Here are a few tips for adjusting to your CPAP machine:

• Try wearing your mask even when you’re not sleeping. This will help you get used to the mask and prevent you from taking it off in your sleep. 
• Aim for consistency – using your CPAP machine irregularly won’t effectively treat your condition. So, wear it whenever you sleep. 
• Ensure that your mask is closely fitted to your face for comfort. 
• If you keep taking your mask off in your sleep, try wearing gloves with little to no grip until you’re used to the machine. 

CPAP is a proven solution for people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), but it’s not for everyone.  Inspire® is now an option too.  It’s the only FDA-approved implantable treatment for people with OSA who cannot use CPAP. Unlike CPAP, Inspire works from inside the body with the patient’s natural breathing process. 

If you’re struggling with snoring or gasping for air at night, the team at ENT Associates can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!