What do CPAP Machines do
What Do CPAP Machines Do?
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea or are considering CPAP therapy, you may wonder: What do CPAP machines actually do? In simple terms, a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine delivers a gentle, steady stream of air that keeps your airway open during sleep. This prevents the airway from collapsing—a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—so you can breathe normally and get a restful night’s sleep.
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we believe that education is the first step to successful therapy. This article explains how CPAP therapy works, why proper fitting and guidance are important, and how accessories can make your journey more comfortable. Let’s dive in!
Quick Answer: CPAP Machines Keep Airways Open During Sleep
The primary role of a CPAP machine is to keep your airway open while you sleep. When you have obstructive sleep apnea, the muscles in your throat relax during sleep, allowing soft tissue to collapse and block your airway. This causes breathing pauses that can lead to fragmented sleep and low oxygen levels.
A CPAP machine solves this by delivering continuous pressurised air through a mask, acting like an air splint to hold your airway open. This steady airflow prevents apneas and ensures uninterrupted breathing, allowing for more restful, restorative sleep.
Real-world tip: Getting used to this airflow can take a little time. Machines like the ResMed AirSense 10 and Philips DreamStation include features like ramp-up settings that start at a lower pressure and gradually increase, making it easier to fall asleep.
Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine with Humidifier
CPAP Machines Are Designed to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
While CPAP therapy may seem like a one-size-fits-all solution, it’s specifically designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—the most common form of sleep apnea. OSA occurs when your airway becomes blocked during sleep, usually due to relaxed throat muscles or excess tissue.
By using a CPAP machine each night, you prevent these blockages and improve your sleep quality. Research shows that consistent CPAP use can reduce daytime sleepiness, lower blood pressure, and improve overall health. Many users also report a dramatic decrease in snoring, which benefits their partners too!
Real-world tip: CPAP therapy requires consistency. Make it a habit to use your machine every night—even during travel—to get the full benefits. Sove CPAP Clinic can help you set up a routine and troubleshoot any early challenges.
CPAP Therapy Requires Proper Fitting, Guidance, and Follow-Up
A successful CPAP experience goes beyond just having the right machine. It requires proper mask fitting, education on using the device, and ongoing follow-up to ensure therapy remains effective and comfortable.
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we specialise in personalised mask fittings. Whether you choose a nasal mask, nasal pillows, or a full-face mask, our team ensures it fits your unique facial features and sleeping style. We also offer guidance on adjusting settings like humidity, ramp time, and pressure relief to make therapy more comfortable.
Regular follow-ups help us check your data, review any leaks or residual apnoeas, and make adjustments if needed. This ongoing support can make all the difference in sticking with CPAP therapy long term.
Real-world tip: Bring your CPAP machine and mask to your appointments so we can check the fit and review your data together. Sove’s team is always ready to help fine-tune your therapy.
Accessories and Supplies Can Enhance Your CPAP Experience
Today’s CPAP machines come with a range of accessories that can significantly enhance comfort and make therapy easier to stick with. Some of the most popular add-ons include:
Heated Humidifiers: These add moisture to the air, preventing dryness in your nose and throat.
Heated Tubing: Keeps air warm as it travels from the machine to your mask, reducing condensation.
Mask Liners: Help reduce skin irritation and improve the mask seal.
Travel CPAP Options: Compact devices like the ResMed AirMini make therapy more portable for frequent travellers.
Brands like ResMed, Philips, and Fisher & Paykel (F&P SleepStyle+) offer a wide range of models and accessories to suit different needs. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we stock these brands and can recommend the best accessories based on your lifestyle and preferences.
Real-world tip: Keep spare mask cushions and filters on hand to ensure optimal performance. Sove CPAP Clinic carries replacement parts and can show you how to swap them out quickly and easily.
A Well-Fitted Mask is Important
The CPAP mask is the “face” of the system. It’s what connects you directly to the therapy. Choosing the right mask and ensuring a proper fit are crucial for effective treatment and comfort.
There are three main types of CPAP masks:
Nasal masks: These cover the nose and are great for people who breathe through their nose at night.
Nasal pillows: These sit at the nostrils and provide a lightweight, minimal-contact option.
Full-face masks: These cover both the nose and mouth, ideal for people who mouth-breathe or have nasal congestion.
A proper fit ensures that the pressurised air doesn’t leak out, which could reduce the effectiveness of your therapy. It also prevents discomfort and skin irritation. Leading brands like the ResMed AirFit series and Philips DreamWear masks are designed with comfort and adjustability in mind.
ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea treatment. When considering whether CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a CPAP machine suitable for all types of Sleep Apnoea?
CPAP machines are primarily designed to treat obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which is caused by airway blockage during sleep. They work by providing a steady stream of air that keeps your airway open. For central sleep apnoea (CSA)—which involves a lack of respiratory effort—CPAP therapy may not be as effective. There are specialised devices, like bilevel PAP or adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) machines, that can help with CSA. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we’ll help you determine which device is right for your diagnosis.
What symptoms might improve with regular CPAP machine use?
Regular use of a CPAP machine can dramatically improve your sleep quality and overall health. Common improvements include reduced daytime sleepiness, better concentration, lower blood pressure, and less snoring. Many users also report improved mood, more energy, and a significant reduction in morning headaches. If you’ve been struggling with fatigue or poor sleep, consistent CPAP use could be a game-changer.
What kinds of CPAP machines are available at Sove CPAP Clinic?
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we offer a wide range of CPAP machines to suit different needs and preferences. This includes popular models like the ResMed AirSense 10, Philips DreamStation, and F&P SleepStyle+. We also stock travel-friendly options like the ResMed AirMini. Our team can help you choose the right machine based on your prescription, comfort preferences, and lifestyle. We also offer a Lowest Price Guarantee to ensure affordability.
How often should I replace parts like the hose or CPAP mask cushion?
Regular replacement of CPAP parts helps maintain effective therapy and hygiene. In general, mask cushions should be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on wear and tear. Tubing should be replaced every 6-12 months. Filters typically need changing monthly, and the humidifier chamber every 6 months. Sove CPAP Clinic stocks all replacement parts and can guide you on when to replace them based on your usage.
What support does Sove CPAP Clinic offer after I purchase a machine?
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we’re committed to your long-term success with CPAP therapy. We offer follow-up appointments, data reviews, mask fitting checks, and advice on cleaning and maintenance. Our team can also help you adjust settings like humidity and ramp time for maximum comfort. Whether you need troubleshooting help or just have a question, we’re always here to support you on your sleep journey.
Can I use a CPAP machine if I travel frequently?
Absolutely! Many modern CPAP machines are designed with travel in mind. Compact models like the ResMed AirMini are lightweight and easy to pack. Some devices come with travel cases and universal power supplies. Always check with airlines about using CPAP on board. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can recommend travel-friendly machines and provide tips on how to maintain therapy wherever you go.
How Does the Humidifier in a CPAP Machine Improve Patient Comfort and Therapy Effectiveness?
The humidifier plays a major role in comfort. Pressurised air can dry out the nasal passages and throat, especially in cooler or dry environments. A CPAP humidifier adds moisture to the air, preventing these side effects and allowing for smoother breathing.
Heated humidifiers warm the water before it’s added to the airstream, creating a more natural-feeling airflow. This can also help reduce congestion, nosebleeds, or morning sore throat—common issues for new users.
To keep it safe and effective, use distilled water and clean the humidifier chamber regularly. Need help setting humidity levels? The Sove team can guide you based on your climate, pressure settings, and personal needs