The Evoluition of CPAP Machines

Used primarily in the treatment of sleep apnoea, although also in medical care for other conditions, CPAP machines are mainly used for the continuous, home treatment of sleep apnoea. The acronym stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure and the machines consist of a box connected by a pipe to a mask which is worn over the nose or the nose and mouth. The machine, usually plugged into the direct current supply provides a flow of pressurised air which forces the patient’s windpipe to stay open, preventing the pauses and interruptions in breathing which characterise this particular sleep disorder.

Early CPAP machines were large, bulky, noisy and uncomfortable. And many patients, even today, abandon their use early on. This is incredibly unfortunate and certainly paints a picture of CPAP machines as less effective as they really are. Indeed those patients who do persevere with the treatment find that the quality of their sleep improves dramatically in only a short space of time.

As CPAP machines have evolved, they have become more comfortable to use and are more easily adjusted to the individual requirements of each patient. Today’s machines, for example are quieter, less bulky and more comfortable than in the past. There are also models which gradually increase the pressure of the air as the patient falls asleep, since the pressure is what most often makes the patient uncomfortable.

In the past, unpleasant side effects were common. The continuous flow of air often dries out the throat, causing discomfort and even nose bleeds, but modern CPAP machines include a humidifier which prevents this problem.

CPAP machines have come a long way in the past few years and continue to get smaller, quieter and more comfortable. For patients who have abandoned their use in the past, now is as good a time as any to seize control over their condition.