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our doctor has said you need an air pressure device to help control your sleep apnea. This device pushes air through your nose or mouth, and into your throat. It keeps your airway open so you do not stop breathing while you sleep. It should give you fast relief.
Putting on the pressure
Different devices
Before you go to bed, you place a soft, plastic mask over your nose or in your mouth. A plastic hose connects the mask to an air blower. Your doctor will tell you how much air pressure you need.*
There are a number of types of air pressure devices. Some common ones are:
Wearing this mask may feel odd at first, but most people get used to it over time. Some people get so used to it, they can’t sleep without it. There are many types of masks. You can find one that is comfortable for you. Or you can have one custom-made.
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) - blows a steady stream of air into your airway. It is most often used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (when your airway is blocked). It can also be used to treat central apnea (when your brain does not signal you to breathe). BiPAP or Bi-level - gives different air pressure levels when you inhale and exhale. It helps you inhale with a set air pressure and exhale with a lower set air pressure.
Self-adjust (or auto-adjust)-monitors you breath-by-breath. It supplies extra air only when you need it. You can start out with a low pressure when you go to bed. If you need more air, it will increase the amount of air as needed. EPAP (expiratory positive airway pressure) - disposable, one-time use device that is placed over the nostrils and held in place by adhesive. These devices allow you to inhale normally, but when you exhale, the air must go through a small device in the valve. This creates pressure which keeps the airway open. EPAP may be used as an alternative to CPAP or BiPAP.
mask hose
CPAP device
The type of air pressure device you need depends on your type of sleep apnea and the level of air pressure you can handle.
airway EPAP device
throat
* Tell your doctor if you gain or lose weight. The air pressure may need to be adjusted. Š 2013
Pritchett & Hull Associates, Inc.
My air pressure device
Side effects
Keep the pressure on
Type of device:
Some common side effects of air pressure devices are:
If you find the device is uncomfortable or not working for you, don’t stop using it. Ask your doctor what else you can do:
Air pressure rate: Care instructions:
Model/Make: Manufacturer:
Manufacturer representative and phone number:
irritated and dry nose A vaporizer, humidifier or saline nose spray can help with this. irritated skin Your mask may leak air and irritate your face. If this happens, you may need a different type of mask. Use skin cream on your face to help with the irritation. bloated abdomen sore eyes headaches
reathe better, sleep better
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Positive air pressure devices to help with sleep apnea
gas
Special instructions:
produced by:
Pritchett & Hull Associates, Inc. ®
Atlanta, Georgia 30340 • 800-241-4925 • www.p-h.com Bringing Patients & Health Together
© 2004-2013 Pritchett & Hull Associates, Inc.
Product # 256A