Content Map Terms

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

British Columbia Specific Information

Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is a generic term applied to therapy devices that treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by using a stream of compressed air to support the upper airway during sleep. PAP therapy should only be prescribed by a referring practitioner (physician or nurse practitioner) or specialist after a patient has undergone a physical evaluation and appropriate diagnostic testing.

The Positive Airway Pressure Buyer's Guide was created by the Ministry of Health to support patients when purchasing a Positive Airway Pressure device. It includes information on:

  • Machine and mask types
  • Machine options and features
  • Funding options
  • Provider details, including location and contact information

The Buyer's Guide does not endorse any particular therapy and is not a substitute for expert clinic advice. Rather, it is intended to augment current informational materials that may be provided to patients and referring practitioners.

 

Treatment Overview

CPAP is a small machine that you use at home every night while you sleep. It increases air pressure in your throat to keep your airway open. When you have sleep apnea, this can help you sleep better, feel better, and avoid future health problems. CPAP stands for "continuous positive airway pressure."

The CPAP machine will have one of the following:

  • A mask that covers your nose and mouth
  • A mask that covers your nose only
  • A nasal pillow that covers only the openings of your nose

What To Expect

It may take time for you to become comfortable with using CPAP. If you can't get used to it, talk to your doctor. You might be able to try another type of mask or make other adjustments.

Why It Is Done

CPAP is the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It's the first treatment choice for adults and is the most widely used.

How Well It Works

CPAP works well to treat sleep apnea. If you use CPAP, you may:

  • Be less sleepy when you wake up.
  • Have lower blood pressure.
  • Have a lower risk of accidents.
  • Improve your sleep-related quality of life.

If you have a bed partner, they may also sleep better when you use CPAP.

Side Effects

Some people who use CPAP have:

  • A dry or stuffy nose and a sore throat.
  • Irritated skin on the face.
  • Bloating.

Steps you can take

If using CPAP is not comfortable, or if you have certain side effects, work with your doctor to fix them. Here are some things you can try:

  • Be sure the mask, nasal mask, or nasal pillow fits well.
  • See if your doctor can adjust the pressure of your CPAP.
  • If your nose or mouth is dry, set the machine to deliver warmer or wetter air. Or try using a humidifier.
  • If your nose is runny or stuffy, talk to your doctor about using a decongestant medicine or steroid nasal spray. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not use the medicine longer than the label says.
  • Your doctor may also help you with problems like swallowing air, bloating, or claustrophobia.

Talk to your doctor if you're still having problems. If these things don't help, you might try a different type of machine.

Credits

Current as of:
June 21, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Hasmeena Kathuria MD - Pulmonology, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine