APAP Specialist
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The Sleep Lab
Jamil S. Sulieman, MD, FAASM
Sleep Medicine located in Kaneohe, HI & Honolulu, HI
If you have sleep apnea, auto-adjusting positive airway pressure (APAP) may help alleviate your symptoms and improve your sleep quality. At The Sleep Lab, sleep specialist Jamil Sulieman, MD, frequently prescribes APAP for adults and teens. If APAP isn’t what you prefer, we also offer a more holistic approach to managing sleep apnea. To explore all the options available, schedule an appointment at our practice in Kaneohe, Hawaii, by calling us or using our online booking feature today.
CPAP Q&A
What is a CPAP machine?
A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is a device prescribed to treat sleep apnea. It features a mask that goes over your nose and mouth, an oxygen tube, and a small electric motor. These components work together to send a steady flow of oxygen to your lungs during sleep.
How do CPAP machines work?
If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it means your breathing stops and starts multiple times throughout the night. Though common, without treatment, OSA increases your risk of chronic health problems, like diabetes and heart disease. CPAP treatment helps you sleep through the night.
A CPAP machine features three main components –– a face mask, a small motor, and a flexible air tube. You plug the motor into an electrical socket and press the power button. The machine sends a continuous stream of filtered oxygen through the tube and into your mask, allowing you to breathe clearly.
The constant flow of oxygen makes it easy to sleep through the entire night. That results in more energy, reduced risk of health problems, and a better quality of life.
What are the different types of CPAP masks?
There are several types of CPAP masks, including:
Nasal pillow masks
Your provider at The Sleep Lab might recommend a nasal pillow mask if you wear glasses or have lots of facial hair. This type of CPAP mask has a small cap with two prongs that slide into your nostrils. It doesn’t cover your mouth, so you won’t feel claustrophobic.
Nasal masks
A nasal mask covers your entire nose. Your provider might recommend this type of CPAP mask if you move a lot in your sleep or need a high-pressure air stream.
Full masks
A full mask covers your entire mouth and nose. This type of CPAP mask is particularly beneficial for people who breathe through their mouths during sleep.
What are the benefits of CPAP?
CPAP offers a variety of benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes
- Lower blood pressure
- Improved energy levels
- Lower cholesterol
CPAP can also improve your mornings by reducing the risk of headaches, drowsiness, and foggy-headedness.
To see if you can benefit from treatment with CPAP, make an appointment at The Sleep Lab by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling feature today.
