subject: Cpap Responsibilities, Maintenance, Advantages And Disadvantages [print this page] A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is a procedure wherein oxygen is delivered to the nasal passage of the patient who experiences sleep apnea. This device was first developed to help people with sleep apnea to sleep undisturbed. Sleep apnea is a condition wherein the muscles in the airway passage constrict because of the muscle relaxation which happens during the patients sleep. When this happens the lowered oxygen level in the bloodstream sends a signal to the brain which will release emergency hormones that will rouse the person from his sleepotherwise, this will lead to asphyxiation.
A continuous Positive Airway Pressure or cpap makes sure that oxygen will flow continuously to the nasal passage of the person while he is sleeping. While this was originally conceptualized as a helpful device for people stricken with sleep apnea, this evolved into a helpful device for neonatal cases, intensive care unit patients or even people with a clogged nose due to common colds. CPAP is also useful for people who have asthma or acute bronchitis.
Aside from its being beneficial and its wide range of use, CPAP devices are also very easy to use and clean. However, the usefulness of this device will be undermined if it is not well kept and defects are not monitored before using it. Worn out masks or hoses with minute holes might decrease the level of compressed air being delivered in the nasal passage during sleep. While physiological responses will usually wake the body to prevent asphyxiation, people must not afford to take the risk. Therefore it is just as important to check this device daily for regular maintenance, cleaning and detection of wear and tear signs.
Various cpap nasal masks are available in stores all over the country. It is available in varied models such as nasal masks, nasal pillows or full face masks. Choose among these designs and find out which one fits most comfortable. Different models suit different needs. Ask cpap distributors about the specifications of each kind of mask available. It is also available in online shopping sites with a complementary free delivery service. For more information visit to our site at http://www.us-med.com
