WHAT IS CPAP?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP, is the most commonly used treatment for patients with OSA. With a CPAP machine, the device pushes air through the patient’s airway and “props” the airway open to prevent pauses in breathing (apnea) and drops in oxygen (hypopnea). The device works by actively pushing air through the airway, essentially “propping” the airway open to prevent pauses in breathing (apnea) and drops in oxygen (hypopnea). Alternatively, the Mandibular Advancement Device can also be used. Once created, the instrument is worn nightly to push the lower jaw in a more forward position. This forward position opens up the airway preventing snoring, apnea, and hypopnea.