Sleep apnea is a pretty insidious beast. It's been shown to be a risk factor for several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. And yet, for all its notoriety, there's still a lot of mystery surrounding the condition. In my case, I had sleep apnea without noticeable snoring, so it took me a while to figure out why I was always so tired during the day.

If you're reading this, chances are you or someone you know has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – or at the very least you have your suspicions. And chances are, you've been told that the best way to treat OSA is with a CPAP machine. But what is a CPAP machine, anyway?

In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about CPAP machines, from how they work to what to expect when you start using one.

But first things first... What's sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can happen because the airway is blocked (obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA) or because the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles involved in breathing (central sleep apnea). OSA is much more common, and it's what we'll be focusing on in this article.

OSA is caused by a collapse of the airway. This can happen because the muscles that keep the airway open relax too much, or because there is extra tissue in the airway (like the soft palate or uvula). When the airway collapses, it causes a partial or complete blockage of airflow. This can lead to snoring, gasping, or choking sounds, and it can also cause interrupted breathing during sleep.

Sleep apnea can manifest in different ways - snoring isn't always one of them. Source: OpenAI.​

Sleep apnea can be a serious condition because it can lead to several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and trouble concentrating.

So how does a CPAP machine help?

A CPAP machine is the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, and that's exactly what the machine does - it provides a steady stream of air pressure to keep the airway from collapsing.

The machine has three main parts: the mask, the tubing, and the machine itself. The mask is worn over the nose and/or mouth, and it's connected to the tubing, which is in turn connected to the machine. The machine pumps air through the tubing and into the mask, which keeps the airway open.

There are a few different types of masks, and you'll need to work with your doctor or sleep specialist to find the right one for you. The most common type is the nasal mask, which covers the nose only. There are also full-face masks, which cover the nose and mouth, and nasal pillows, which are small, soft cushions that sit at the base of the nostrils.

Using a CPAP machine may take some getting used to, but it's generally very effective at treating OSA. In most cases, it's the best option for keeping the airway open and preventing health problems associated with sleep apnea.

What can I expect when I start using a CPAP machine?

When you start using a CPAP machine, you may experience some side effects, like a dry or stuffy nose, a sore throat, or headaches. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days or weeks of use.

If you have trouble adjusting to the CPAP machine, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Make sure the mask fits well - a good fit will help reduce leaks, which can cause dryness and irritation. You can also use a humidifier with your CPAP machine to add moisture to the air. This can help relieve congestion and dryness.

Sounds like a hassle. Is a CPAP really worth bothering with?

Absolutely! If you have sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the gold standard treatment. It's effective, and it can improve your quality of life in many ways. After all, good quality sleep is crucial to good health.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to start CPAP therapy, talk to your GP or ask for a referral to a sleep specialist. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and decide if CPAP is right for you. Medicare may even cover the cost of a sleep study!

 

[Terrytooth]

I have had a CPAP machine for almost 11 years now. Only not used it twice. Once when I went away for a night and the other time camping when the car battery went flat. I absolutely swear by the machine. I sleep very well and wake up refreshed and I very rarely need a nanna nap during the day. Only downside is the cost of the machine and I am now on my second one.

 

[PLK]

I love my CPAP machine and the only time I have slept without it is when the power has gone out and when the airline somehow left the CPAP machine back in Melbourne while I was travelling up to Cairns. I sleep without snoring which makes the night time a lot quieter.

 

[Gerada]

Sleep apnea is a pretty insidious beast. It's been shown to be a risk factor for several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. And yet, for all its notoriety, there's still a lot of mystery surrounding the condition. In my case, I had sleep apnea without noticeable snoring, so it took me a while to figure out why I was always so tired during the day.

If you're reading this, chances are you or someone you know has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – or at the very least you have your suspicions. And chances are, you've been told that the best way to treat OSA is with a CPAP machine. But what is a CPAP machine, anyway?

In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about CPAP machines, from how they work to what to expect when you start using one.

But first things first... What's sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can happen because the airway is blocked (obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA) or because the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles involved in breathing (central sleep apnea). OSA is much more common, and it's what we'll be focusing on in this article.

OSA is caused by a collapse of the airway. This can happen because the muscles that keep the airway open relax too much, or because there is extra tissue in the airway (like the soft palate or uvula). When the airway collapses, it causes a partial or complete blockage of airflow. This can lead to snoring, gasping, or choking sounds, and it can also cause interrupted breathing during sleep.

View attachment 7181
Sleep apnea can manifest in different ways - snoring isn't always one of them. Source: OpenAI.​

Sleep apnea can be a serious condition because it can lead to several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and trouble concentrating.

So how does a CPAP machine help?

A CPAP machine is the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, and that's exactly what the machine does - it provides a steady stream of air pressure to keep the airway from collapsing.

The machine has three main parts: the mask, the tubing, and the machine itself. The mask is worn over the nose and/or mouth, and it's connected to the tubing, which is in turn connected to the machine. The machine pumps air through the tubing and into the mask, which keeps the airway open.

There are a few different types of masks, and you'll need to work with your doctor or sleep specialist to find the right one for you. The most common type is the nasal mask, which covers the nose only. There are also full-face masks, which cover the nose and mouth, and nasal pillows, which are small, soft cushions that sit at the base of the nostrils.

Using a CPAP machine may take some getting used to, but it's generally very effective at treating OSA. In most cases, it's the best option for keeping the airway open and preventing health problems associated with sleep apnea.

What can I expect when I start using a CPAP machine?

When you start using a CPAP machine, you may experience some side effects, like a dry or stuffy nose, a sore throat, or headaches. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days or weeks of use.

If you have trouble adjusting to the CPAP machine, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Make sure the mask fits well - a good fit will help reduce leaks, which can cause dryness and irritation. You can also use a humidifier with your CPAP machine to add moisture to the air. This can help relieve congestion and dryness.

Sounds like a hassle. Is a CPAP really worth bothering with?

Absolutely! If you have sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the gold standard treatment. It's effective, and it can improve your quality of life in many ways. After all, good quality sleep is crucial to good health.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to start CPAP therapy, talk to your GP or ask for a referral to a sleep specialist. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and decide if CPAP is right for you. Medicare may even cover the cost of a sleep study!

My hubbie has tried a Cpap machine 3 different times. Apparently he takes in airflow, but doesn't exhale enough. So he can't use a machine. We're hoping just a nose tube affixed to a oxygen bottle will help?

 

[Ricci]

I was told I should use a CPAP machine and I tried, I really did. I found that most mornings I woke up with it next to me, at some point in the night, in my sleep I had taken it off I also found that I was allergic to whatever it is the masks are made of. I tried everything from the nasal prongs to the full face masks only to have my face turn scarlet and swell up. In the end my doctor told me to not bother as the cure was almost as bad as the ailment!!

 

[JayKay]

My son worked at ResMed as a Biomedical Engineer designing new CPAP machines for 2 years before starting his PhD.
He found the research fascinating.

 

[Krishnee]

Sleep apnea is a pretty insidious beast. It's been shown to be a risk factor for several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. And yet, for all its notoriety, there's still a lot of mystery surrounding the condition. In my case, I had sleep apnea without noticeable snoring, so it took me a while to figure out why I was always so tired during the day.

If you're reading this, chances are you or someone you know has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – or at the very least you have your suspicions. And chances are, you've been told that the best way to treat OSA is with a CPAP machine. But what is a CPAP machine, anyway?

In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about CPAP machines, from how they work to what to expect when you start using one.

But first things first... What's sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can happen because the airway is blocked (obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA) or because the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles involved in breathing (central sleep apnea). OSA is much more common, and it's what we'll be focusing on in this article.

OSA is caused by a collapse of the airway. This can happen because the muscles that keep the airway open relax too much, or because there is extra tissue in the airway (like the soft palate or uvula). When the airway collapses, it causes a partial or complete blockage of airflow. This can lead to snoring, gasping, or choking sounds, and it can also cause interrupted breathing during sleep.

View attachment 7181
Sleep apnea can manifest in different ways - snoring isn't always one of them. Source: OpenAI.​

Sleep apnea can be a serious condition because it can lead to several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and trouble concentrating.

So how does a CPAP machine help?

A CPAP machine is the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, and that's exactly what the machine does - it provides a steady stream of air pressure to keep the airway from collapsing.

The machine has three main parts: the mask, the tubing, and the machine itself. The mask is worn over the nose and/or mouth, and it's connected to the tubing, which is in turn connected to the machine. The machine pumps air through the tubing and into the mask, which keeps the airway open.

There are a few different types of masks, and you'll need to work with your doctor or sleep specialist to find the right one for you. The most common type is the nasal mask, which covers the nose only. There are also full-face masks, which cover the nose and mouth, and nasal pillows, which are small, soft cushions that sit at the base of the nostrils.

Using a CPAP machine may take some getting used to, but it's generally very effective at treating OSA. In most cases, it's the best option for keeping the airway open and preventing health problems associated with sleep apnea.

What can I expect when I start using a CPAP machine?

When you start using a CPAP machine, you may experience some side effects, like a dry or stuffy nose, a sore throat, or headaches. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days or weeks of use.

If you have trouble adjusting to the CPAP machine, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Make sure the mask fits well - a good fit will help reduce leaks, which can cause dryness and irritation. You can also use a humidifier with your CPAP machine to add moisture to the air. This can help relieve congestion and dryness.

Sounds like a hassle. Is a CPAP really worth bothering with?

Absolutely! If you have sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the gold standard treatment. It's effective, and it can improve your quality of life in many ways. After all, good quality sleep is crucial to good health.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to start CPAP therapy, talk to your GP or ask for a referral to a sleep specialist. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and decide if CPAP is right for you. Medicare may even cover the cost of a sleep study!

Hi, My husband used to snore very badly. I made an appointment with the sleep clinic where it was found that he stops breathing for almost 2 minutes. He now sleeps with the CPAP machine and has stopped snoring and sleeping much better. He always thanks me for getting him to the sleep clinic in the first instance. Krishnee

 

[BootleBlueBoy]

I have a ResMed CPAP with a water tank , this is my seventh year of use and I am still learning about it .
I have come to the conclusion that I need to clean it on a weekly basis , with the machine ( extra) and I have bought some medical tape to put under the middle of my nose to stop any reaction and it’s working perfectly .

 

[OLdWayne]

Sleep apnea is a pretty insidious beast. It's been shown to be a risk factor for several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. And yet, for all its notoriety, there's still a lot of mystery surrounding the condition. In my case, I had sleep apnea without noticeable snoring, so it took me a while to figure out why I was always so tired during the day.

If you're reading this, chances are you or someone you know has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – or at the very least you have your suspicions. And chances are, you've been told that the best way to treat OSA is with a CPAP machine. But what is a CPAP machine, anyway?

In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about CPAP machines, from how they work to what to expect when you start using one.

But first things first... What's sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can happen because the airway is blocked (obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA) or because the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles involved in breathing (central sleep apnea). OSA is much more common, and it's what we'll be focusing on in this article.

OSA is caused by a collapse of the airway. This can happen because the muscles that keep the airway open relax too much, or because there is extra tissue in the airway (like the soft palate or uvula). When the airway collapses, it causes a partial or complete blockage of airflow. This can lead to snoring, gasping, or choking sounds, and it can also cause interrupted breathing during sleep.

View attachment 7181
Sleep apnea can manifest in different ways - snoring isn't always one of them. Source: OpenAI.​

Sleep apnea can be a serious condition because it can lead to several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and trouble concentrating.

So how does a CPAP machine help?

A CPAP machine is the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, and that's exactly what the machine does - it provides a steady stream of air pressure to keep the airway from collapsing.

The machine has three main parts: the mask, the tubing, and the machine itself. The mask is worn over the nose and/or mouth, and it's connected to the tubing, which is in turn connected to the machine. The machine pumps air through the tubing and into the mask, which keeps the airway open.

There are a few different types of masks, and you'll need to work with your doctor or sleep specialist to find the right one for you. The most common type is the nasal mask, which covers the nose only. There are also full-face masks, which cover the nose and mouth, and nasal pillows, which are small, soft cushions that sit at the base of the nostrils.

Using a CPAP machine may take some getting used to, but it's generally very effective at treating OSA. In most cases, it's the best option for keeping the airway open and preventing health problems associated with sleep apnea.

What can I expect when I start using a CPAP machine?

When you start using a CPAP machine, you may experience some side effects, like a dry or stuffy nose, a sore throat, or headaches. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days or weeks of use.

If you have trouble adjusting to the CPAP machine, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Make sure the mask fits well - a good fit will help reduce leaks, which can cause dryness and irritation. You can also use a humidifier with your CPAP machine to add moisture to the air. This can help relieve congestion and dryness.

Sounds like a hassle. Is a CPAP really worth bothering with?

Absolutely! If you have sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the gold standard treatment. It's effective, and it can improve your quality of life in many ways. After all, good quality sleep is crucial to good health.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to start CPAP therapy, talk to your GP or ask for a referral to a sleep specialist. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and decide if CPAP is right for you. Medicare may even cover the cost of a sleep study!

 

[joany]

Sleep apnea is a pretty insidious beast. It's been shown to be a risk factor for several serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. And yet, for all its notoriety, there's still a lot of mystery surrounding the condition. In my case, I had sleep apnea without noticeable snoring, so it took me a while to figure out why I was always so tired during the day.

If you're reading this, chances are you or someone you know has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – or at the very least you have your suspicions. And chances are, you've been told that the best way to treat OSA is with a CPAP machine. But what is a CPAP machine, anyway?

In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about CPAP machines, from how they work to what to expect when you start using one.

But first things first... What's sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can happen because the airway is blocked (obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA) or because the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles involved in breathing (central sleep apnea). OSA is much more common, and it's what we'll be focusing on in this article.

OSA is caused by a collapse of the airway. This can happen because the muscles that keep the airway open relax too much, or because there is extra tissue in the airway (like the soft palate or uvula). When the airway collapses, it causes a partial or complete blockage of airflow. This can lead to snoring, gasping, or choking sounds, and it can also cause interrupted breathing during sleep.

View attachment 7181
Sleep apnea can manifest in different ways - snoring isn't always one of them. Source: OpenAI.​

Sleep apnea can be a serious condition because it can lead to several health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It can also cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and trouble concentrating.

So how does a CPAP machine help?

A CPAP machine is the most common treatment for OSA. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, and that's exactly what the machine does - it provides a steady stream of air pressure to keep the airway from collapsing.

The machine has three main parts: the mask, the tubing, and the machine itself. The mask is worn over the nose and/or mouth, and it's connected to the tubing, which is in turn connected to the machine. The machine pumps air through the tubing and into the mask, which keeps the airway open.

There are a few different types of masks, and you'll need to work with your doctor or sleep specialist to find the right one for you. The most common type is the nasal mask, which covers the nose only. There are also full-face masks, which cover the nose and mouth, and nasal pillows, which are small, soft cushions that sit at the base of the nostrils.

Using a CPAP machine may take some getting used to, but it's generally very effective at treating OSA. In most cases, it's the best option for keeping the airway open and preventing health problems associated with sleep apnea.

What can I expect when I start using a CPAP machine?

When you start using a CPAP machine, you may experience some side effects, like a dry or stuffy nose, a sore throat, or headaches. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days or weeks of use.

If you have trouble adjusting to the CPAP machine, there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Make sure the mask fits well - a good fit will help reduce leaks, which can cause dryness and irritation. You can also use a humidifier with your CPAP machine to add moisture to the air. This can help relieve congestion and dryness.

Sounds like a hassle. Is a CPAP really worth bothering with?

Absolutely! If you have sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the gold standard treatment. It's effective, and it can improve your quality of life in many ways. After all, good quality sleep is crucial to good health.

If you're still on the fence about whether or not to start CPAP therapy, talk to your GP or ask for a referral to a sleep specialist. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and decide if CPAP is right for you. Medicare may even cover the cost of a sleep study!

I’ve had bad sleep apnea for many years but can’t seem to tolerate those noisy monsters called cpap machines, I’ve tried many 2nd hand machines and my last new one was a Resmed S8 but to no avail I end up throwing them. Some years later I live my life in a zombie state I’m so tired permanently. My question is, is there a shop or factory I can go to see and compare these noisy but necessary machines and compare them for myself instead of a sales person at the sleep centre saying this is the one for you $2000 please. Help help help I am so tired.

 

[JayKay]

I’ve had bad sleep apnea for many years but can’t seem to tolerate those noisy monsters called cpap machines, I’ve tried many 2nd hand machines and my last new one was a Resmed S8 but to no avail I end up throwing them. Some years later I live my life in a zombie state I’m so tired permanently. My question is, is there a shop or factory I can go to see and compare these noisy but necessary machines and compare them for myself instead of a sales person at the sleep centre saying this is the one for you $2000 please. Help help help I am so tired.

My son told me the S8 is an old model.
The newer models are smaller and quieter.
Perhaps your GP could do some research for you.....if he doesn't know, maybe the GP could ask other Doctors in the clinic for any information.
I'm thinking there's surely shops available which sell different types?
I don't know.
How about the stores which sell aids for people with disabilities?
Maybe they can set you on the right path???