CPAP therapy at home

CPAP · CPAP machine · anti-snoring machine · sleep mask · sleep apnea treatment

A small machine delivers air through a mask at night under gentle pressure. This keeps the airway from collapsing during sleep, so breathing does not stop.

For pauses in breathing during sleep (apnea), or loud snoring with daytime sleepiness, once a sleep study has confirmed it.

⏱ Duration: every night, for the whole sleep; getting used to it usually takes 1 to 4 weeks

Be sure to tell your doctor

If the mask rubs, presses, or air leaks from under it
If your mouth or nose is dry, or your nose is blocked
If you still snore or feel sleepy in the day
If it is hard to get used to it and you want to quit

How to prepare

Mask. The mask is fitted by size. If it is uncomfortable, ask for another size or type, since there are many.
Getting used to it. In the first days, wear the mask for 20 to 30 minutes in the daytime, just sitting or reading.
Water. If the machine has a humidifier, fill it with boiled or distilled water, and check the instructions.
Pressure. Your doctor sets the pressure. Do not change it yourself.

What to bring

The machine, hose, and mask
The memory card or data from the app, for your visit
A list of questions and complaints

How it goes

Before bed, pour water into the humidifier, if there is one
Put on the mask and tighten the straps, snug but not too tight
Lie in a comfortable position and turn on the machine
Breathe calmly through your nose if it is a nasal mask
If air blows from under the mask, adjust its position a little
In the morning, turn off the machine, take off the mask, and pour out the water

What you'll feel

The first nights feel strange: air pressure and the mask on your face
Sometimes a dry mouth or nose
After a few weeks, many people notice they sleep better

Afterwards

Use the machine every night, since skipped nights reduce the benefit
Wipe the mask every day, and wash the hose and water tank once a week
Filters and the mask are replaced following the instructions
After a while, your doctor will check the machine's data

Contact a doctor straight away if

Ear pain, severe sinus pain, or nosebleeds: tell your doctor
Severe shortness of breath or chest pain: call emergency services

Common questions

Can I skip a night?

It is better not to. Without the machine, the breathing pauses come back the same night.

What if I take off the mask in my sleep?

This happens at the start. Tell your doctor, since another mask or setting sometimes helps.