What are the benefits of cpap therapy?

CPAP Therapy and Sleep Apnea

According to the University of Maryland in-depth study, the type of CPAP therapy known as nasal Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (nCPAP) is beneficial in treating sleep apnea, but benefits depend on the patient compliance with the therapy.

What is CPAP Therapy?

CPAP therapy, according to the Sleep Services of America website on CPAP, consists of a nasal mask worn over or against your nose, headgear to hold the mask in place as you sleep, and a hose connected to a CPAP ventilating compressor. A steady air pressure is then pumped into the mask overnight, helping keep your upper airway open while you sleep.

Benefits of CPAP Therapy

According to the Sleep Services of America website on CPAP, the benefits of CPAP therapy include restorationg of normal sleep patterns, increased alertness, decreased daytime sleepiness, lessened depression and anxiety caused by sleep apnea, and improved work productivity, concentration and memory in those with obstructive sleep apnea.

Patient Compliance Needed for Benefits

To achieve the full benefits of CPAP therapy, patients must wear the CPAP mask for at least 4 to 6 hours each night, according to the University of Maryland study, with maximum benefits derived from at least 7.5 hours a night of CPAP therapy. CPAP side effects often encourage patients to wear the mask for a shorter period of time, so full benefits are not achieved.

Side Effects of CPAP Therapy

According to the National Center on Sleep Disorders, side effects include: nasal and throat irritation, dry mouth, eye irritation, pressure sores around the nose, upper respiratory infections and a feeling of claustrophobia and anxiety from the CPAP mask.

Benefits of a Nasal Pillow Mask

Using a smaller, less oppressive nasal pillow mask, instead of a full CPAP mask, can be helpful to patients who are having difficulty achieving the full benefits of CPAP therapy due to side effects, according to the Sleep Services of America website on CPAP.

Source:

Sleep Services of America: CPAP Information

nhlbi.nih.gov: National Center on Sleep Disorders

umm.edu: Obstructive Sleep Apnea