CPAP Sleep Apnea Machine

The original sleep apnea machine developed for people suffering from obstructive snoring was the CPAP. The CPAP machine blows a constant flow of air pressured at a fixed level that is typically determined by the sleep center after a sleep apnea test.

The air flow produced by the CPAP machine does not vary throughout the night or sleep cycle of the user. It may take a couple of days to get used to the constant flow of air, particularly when you are exhaling.

This machine is very effective in eliminating sleep apnea and snoring. The result is a restful and restorative night’s sleep for you and your partner.

The sleep center doctor will prescribe the air pressure you should set the machine to which is expressed in centimeter of water pressure. This setting is determined from the results of the sleep study.

APAP Sleep Apnea Machine

An APAP is very similar in construction to a CPAP. The difference is in the operation of the machine. These APAP machines have advanced electronics to monitor the users breathing and set the amount of air pressure accordingly.

The advantage over the CPAP is improved comfort for the user.

It is rare that a person needs the same air pressure level throughout the course of the night. As we sleep the amount of air pressure needed will vary depending on factors such as our level of fatigue, if we’ve been drinking, allergies, etc. In addition, over time our weight changes which will change the level of air pressure needed to keep the airway open.

VPAP Sleep Apnea Machine

The VPAP is more commonly called a BIPAP or Bi-level machine. Again, similar construction as a CPAP and APAP with the difference being the air pressure operation of the machine.

This type of sleep apnea machine has one air pressure setting for when you inhale and another lower air pressure setting for when you exhale.

Many users find this type of machine more comfortable than the CPAP because the lower exhale air pressure eliminates the feeling of being suffocated. This feeling goes away and can be greatly reduced by choosing the proper sleep apnea mask.

These machines also allow for a higher air pressure volume than CPAP’s and the APAPs. For people who have severe sleep apnea or have a greater throat obstruction issue t machine will allow for a better sleep therapy solutions. Because of the two distinct air pressure settings in one cycle a more complex motor is required.

Choosing a Sleep Apnea Machine

The first step is to check with your medical insurance to discover the amount of coverage and if any features are covered or excluded from your coverage. The good news is that you have a lot of choices from many manufacturers, each with several models feature selections.

Based on my experience with 3 different machines, here are the features you should look for:

A humidifier is a must if you live in a cold climate area.

Most machines have the humidifier built into the unit. The humidifier will deliver moist air which will keep your nasal passage and throat from drying out and getting irritated. There are passive and heated humidifier styles.

The sleep apnea mask is the #1 item that will determine the comfort and satisfaction of the sleep apnea machine.

Sleep apnea masks are always interchangeable between machine manufacturers and come in different styles.

I have used the standard sleep apnea face mask and still do when I am restless. My personal preference is the nose pillow style sleep apnea mask. But, it is more difficult to keep air-tight.

Both these masks use a head harness to hold the mask in place. A newer sleep apnea mask without the use of a head harness is also available.

Having a data logging chip helps your doctor or sleep technician adjust the air pressure required for proper treatment of the sleep apnea.

Power adaptability is important if you travel. Most types of sleep apnea machine have dual 120/220 ability, but you want to make sure if you travel frequently.