The first few nights on CPAP may be difficult, while patients acclimate. Many patients at first find the mask uncomfortable, claustrophobic or embarrassing.

Tongue retaining devices keep the tongue forward so that it does not block the airway. These devices also help reduce the number of apnea events experienced, although studies have shown issues with compliance. People tend to prefer mandibular advancement devices over tongue retaining devices.

Below is a summary of these problems and advice on how they can be controlled. Any major problems should be immediately reported to your doctor or nurse who will be able to deal with them in conjunction with a specialist at a Sleep Department.

You may be wondering, “How long does CPAP take to work?” The short answer is that you are more likely to see results (such as feeling less fatigued) when you prioritize consistency and patience, but it’s different for everyone.

Sleep apnea can’t be cured, but treatments can help improve sleep by reducing the number of breathing interruptions.

You may be asking yourself, “Is it normal to be tired after starting CPAP?” Yes, and many new users find that it takes months to start feeling the benefits of uninterrupted sleep.

It is used in hypoxic respiratory failure associated with congestive heart failure in which it augments the cardiac output and improves V/Q matching.

More than 2 million healthcare providers around the world choose UpToDate to help make appropriate care decisions and drive better health outcomes. UpToDate delivers evidence-based clinical decision support that is clear, actionable, and rich with real-world insights.

Myofunctional therapy, or therapy for facial and mouth muscles, may help reduce apnea events. This therapy includes exercises to strengthen the muscles in the tongue, soft palate, lips, and face. Correcting the position of the tongue can help prevent it from blocking the airway.

More than 2 million healthcare providers around the world choose UpToDate to help make appropriate care decisions and drive better health outcomes. UpToDate delivers evidence-based clinical decision support that is clear, actionable, and rich with real-world insights.

How does CPAP work? CPAP machines work by generating an air stream that keeps the upper airway open during sleep. There are lots of different machines available and modern devices are small, comfortable and easy to use. The air stream is pushed through tubing via a mask to the back of the throat.

 Instead, it creates a flow of air pressure when you inhale that is strong enough to keep your airway passages open. Once your otolaryngologist determines that CPAP is the right treatment, you will need to wear the CPAP mask every night.

Also called Automóvel-adjusting CPAP or Automóvel-titrating BPAP, this technology can be added to CPAP or BiPAP devices to allow the machine to automatically adjust read more air pressure as needed during the night.

Compliance Matters: Many people quit CPAP therapy due to initial discomfort. To get the most out of your treatment, practice wearing your mask and keep your equipment clean.