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An overview of Positive pressure therapy (PAP) therapy

Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy CPAP/BIPAP is the frontline treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. PAP therapy keeps your airway open during the night by gently providing a constant stream of air through a mask you wear while you sleep. This eliminates the breathing pauses caused by sleep apnea, so you will no longer snore or make choking noises in your sleep. You will be able to sleep through the night without your body waking up from a lack of oxygen. When you use PAP each night, you will feel more alert during the daytime. Your mood will improve and you will have a better memory. PAP prevents or even reverses serious health problems linked to sleep apnea such as heart disease and stroke. Your partner may even sleep better because you will stop snoring.

PAP therapy comes with a machine, flexible tubing and a mask. Most machines are small, lightweight and relatively quiet. You can keep the PAP machine on your nightstand or at the side of your bed. The mask may cover only your nose or both your nose and mouth. Another option is to use "nasal pillows," which fit in your nostrils. No matter what type of mask you use, it is important that it fits well and is comfortable. The mask must make a seal in order to keep your airway open through the night. A good mask seal will prevent air leaks and maintain the right level of air pressure. Your sleep doctor will determine the amount of air pressure needed for PAP to treat your sleep apnea. The doctor may recommend a PAP titration study to calibrate your air pressure setting. Most PAP units also come with a timed pressure “ramp” setting. This starts the airflow at a very low level, so you can fall asleep comfortably. The setting then slowly raises the pressure while you sleep until it reaches the right level to treat your sleep apnea. PAP is a lifestyle change. It works best when used every night, for the entire time you are sleeping. You also should use PAP when you are napping. Just one night without the treatment can have a negative impact on your blood pressure. The more you use PAP, the better you will feel. Proper PAP operation requires the user to follow specific manufacturer instructions as outlined in the patient instructions manual.  

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