Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a non-invasive treatment used to manage sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that causes a person to stop breathing repeatedly during sleep.
During CPAP therapy, a machine delivers a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask worn over the nose or mouth, which helps to keep the airway open and prevent apneas from occurring.
The pressure delivered by the CPAP machine is determined by a sleep specialist and is based on the severity of the individual's sleep apnea. CPAP therapy is highly effective in reducing the frequency and severity of apneas and can lead to improved quality of sleep, reduced daytime fatigue, and improved overall health.
CPAP therapy is typically prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe sleep apnea, but it may also be used for individuals with mild sleep apnea who experience significant symptoms or for those who cannot tolerate other treatments. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to ensure that CPAP therapy is properly adjusted and that the individual receives ongoing support to maintain compliance with the treatment.