Continuous And Intermittent Positive Airway Pressure Care

• A complete physical exam will be done.
• Your doctor may require you to stay in a sleep lab. This will help to determine the correct amount of airway pressure for you and your condition.
• You may see a pulmonologist or an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist).
• Depending on your situation, your physician may recommend that you make lifestyle changes, such as:
  • Quitting smoking
  • Losing weight
  • Exercising

• Following your stay in a sleep lab, you will be prescribed a CPAP machine.
• The CPAP machine includes a ventilator (pump) and a face mask. The pump sits off the bed and has a tube that goes to the face mask. The face mask will be tightly secured to your head so that air will not leak out. The pump will force air through your airway to help keep it open.
• You will wear the face mask to bed every night.

If you are undergoing CPAP treatment for sleep apnea, you will use the machine indefinitely.

Some patients using CPAP report chest muscle discomfort due to the increased lung volume. Talk with your doctor about the best way for you to relieve any discomfort.

If you are getting a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, you must stay in the hospital for a sleep study to ensure that the correct amount of pressure is used. You could have to stay in the hospital for just one night, or a few nights.

It is important to note that in the case of CPAP for sleep apnea, discontinuing the use of the CPAP will most likely cause symptoms to return. Follow the instructions for the care and cleaning of your machine and mask.