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Respiratory | CPAP BiPAP | Medical Equipment | Mobility

CPAP - BiPAP

Did you that over 12 million people in the United States are affected by a sleep disorder called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)? These people literally stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, often for a minute or longer as many as a hundred times per night. The site of obstruction in most patients is the soft palate, extending to the region at the base of the tongue. During the day, muscles in this area keep the passage wide open. But as a person with OSA falls asleep, these muscles relax to a point where the airway becomes obstructed. When the airway closes, breathing stops and the sleeper awakens to open the airway. The arousal from sleep usually only lasts a few seconds, but brief arousals disrupt continuous sleep and prevent the person from reaching the deep stages of slumber, which the body needs in order to rest and replenish its strength. Once normal breathing is restored, the person falls asleep only to repeat the cycle throughout the night.

One way to treat people with OSA is with the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure device (CPAP). A CPAP includes a mask, tubes and a fan. It uses air pressure to push your tongue forward and open your throat. This allows air to pass through your throat. It reduces snoring and prevents apnea disturbances.

You should wear your CPAP whenever you sleep, even when you take a nap. A CPAP does not sure sleep apnea, but when the device is used correctly, your sleep problems should get much better.

Family Care Medical Services will help you with all of your CPAP/BiPAP needs. Our respiratory therapists will make sure you have the most comfortable and best suited CPAP or BiPAP. Our team will also make sure you have the best mask available for you!