One of the nonsurgical treatments that are said to be effective in preventing sleep apnea is through the use of masks. These devices consist of a portable machine that is designed to provide pressurized air to a patient’s nasal passage as to prevent his throat from collapsing and blocking his airway whenever he sleeps. It is made up of a mask that is worn either over the nose or mouth and both. This is connected by a hose or tube to a fan that provides the pressurized air that is used by the machine. This makes use of the method known as CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure.
Different manufacturers of CPAP masks include Respironics, Resmed and Puritan Bennet. Categories include nasal, full face and nasal pillows among others.
Care must be provided in choosing the best mask as the fit can influence greatly its effectiveness. A mask that is too loose will not provide the adequate air pressure since the air will have the tendency to leak out of its sides. Too much tightness on the other hand can result to the distortion of the mask which can cause inconvenience to the patient resulting to a poorer sleep quality. This is why it is recommended that those who need to use a sleep apnea mask should have it specially chosen for their unique fit and preferences. Making use of a proper sizing guide is highly recommended.
At first, using this piece of equipment can prove to be very inconvenient to a patient as this reduces all the possible movements when he sleeps. However, it is something that anyone can adjust to in a short time. Once its functions are fully utilized then it is guaranteed to help in reducing and maybe eliminating the effects of sleep apnea.
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