To treat sleep apnea and severe snoring, your doctor may recommend an air pressure device. The most common type of air pressure device is called continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Often, adjustments are necessary to make CPAP comfortable, which is why Sleep Center of Greater Pittsburgh offers a clinical evaluation of CPAP treatment. By working with your doctor to overcome problems, you can help make CPAP work for you.
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Tips for Using CPAP
Here are some tips to help you get the most benefit out of CPAP:
- Because CPAP doesn’t cure the underlying conditions that cause snoring and sleep apnea, it should be used all night, every night.
- Many different styles of CPAP masks are available. If your mask is uncomfortable, talk to your doctor about adjusting it or trying a different one. Custom-made masks are also available.
- Most positive air pressure machines are equipped with a built-in heated humidifier; however, a separate vaporizer or humidifier may also help to combat nasal dryness that occasionally results from CPAP treatment. Saline nasal spray (available in
drugstores) may also help.
- CPAP works best if your nose is clear. If you have allergies or other problems that block your nose, consult your physician.
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