CPAP TITRATION STUDY
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. Nasal CPAP therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical way to treat obstructive sleep apnea.
When a patient comes into the Sleep Center to be titrated on nasal CPAP, he or she is fitted with a relatively small, comfortable mask that goes over the nose only. This mask is hooked up to a CPAP unit, which delivers an air pressure through the nose into the back of the airway to splint the airway open during sleep with air. Intially, the CPAP unit uses a low air pressure that allows patients to breathe easily in and out against the slight pressure. When the patient is asleep, the pressure is adjusted (titrated) to keep the back of the airway open during sleep. Pressure is titrated to keep the patient apnea-free in all stages of sleep and in all body positions. The CPAP allows the patient to achieve restful and deep sleep without interruption during the night. Patients with sleep apnea not only get a good night’s sleep on CPAP therapy, but also prevent long-term damage to their heart and body that could be caused by lack of oxygen and poor sleep.
You should experience no more discomfort than with a routine polysomnography. Some patients are claustrophobic and are frightened by the mask at first. Try to remember that this machine should help you breathe much easier once you are asleep.
The CPAP will not work effectively if you have a stuffy nose. If you have a cold, please call the Wilson Sleep Lab and reschedule your monitoring. If you have a constant stuffy nose, please contact your physician for a decongestant.
The final report of your evaluation will be sent to your physician. You will receive a follow-up appointment with your physician during which the results will be discussed.