CPAP/Bi-Level CPAP - A Machine That Helps People Dealing With Sleep Apnea

The problem of apnea, the temporary cessation of breathing, is not one that is confined to any race or gender. It is true that those who are overweight are more likely to experience symptoms, but no one, old or young, rich or poor, male or female, is exempt from the problem. And apnea (a word that comes from the Greek ap neus or “without breath”) comes in two major forms. 

The more common form, usually called “obstructive apnea,” occurs when the muscles of the larynx or throat collapse, sealing the airway. Most commonly, this occurs during sleep, hence it is not unusual for a physician to use the acronym “OSA” or “obstructive sleep apnea” to describe the phenomenon. The rarer form, “central” apnea, occurs when the lungs fail to expand for any of a number of reasons. This is the form most commonly seen in children and the elderly. It is also, unfortunately, the less treatable form.

Introduction to CPAP: How It Works

Obstructive apnea can be treated by the use of an ingenious little machine known as the CPAP, or Constant Positive Airway Pressure machine. The device, when working properly, provides a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask to the apnea sufferer. This pressure accomplishes what the muscles fail to do: it keeps the airway clear of obstruction and allows normal breathing during sleep. The Bi-Level CPAP works similarly, but operates at two different levels of pressure. The pressure is designed to lessen during times when the body is sustaining air pressure (at the beginning of exhalation, for instance) and rise to full value during potential trouble spots (end of exhalation and throughout inhalation). Both, however, require adjustment, and some level of getting used to.