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For those of us suffering from sleep apnea, CPAP devices can provide a new lease on life in the form of consistent air flow for safer, healthier sleep. But, for some, they are not without their challenges. Dr. Jim Abraham presents ways to better tolerate CPAP therapy--from avoiding dry mouth and congestion, to making your CPAP device a simpler part of your normal routine.
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Learning to Live with CPAPJim Abraham, MD, FCCP Sleep Medicine
www.SpringfieldClinic.comwww.SpringfieldClinic.com
Learning to Live with CPAP
• What is Sleep Apnea?• What is CPAP?• Mask Options• Pitfalls and Challenges
CPAP = Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Krames Patient Education “Snoring & Sleep Apnea”
Krames Patient Education “Snoring & Sleep Apnea”
Interfaces
Interfaces
Pitfalls & Challenges -Interface issues
Common Problems Poor fit Air leaks Skin breakdown Mouth and nose
dryness Claustrophobia Unintentional mask
removal
• Potential SolutionsTry a variety of mask
Nasal pillows
Avoid over tightening
Humidification**
Chin straps
Desensitization
Low-pressure alarms
Change mode
Pitfalls & Challenges
Nasal Symptoms Congestion Obstruction Nose Bleeding Pain Runny nose
• Solutions Nasal steroids Antihistamines Ipratroprium (atrovent) Topical decongestants Humidification Nasal saline
Pitfalls & Challenges
Pressure intolerance
Bloating Ramp Pressure
“Ramp Abuse” Bi-Level, Flexible PAP Accept lower pressure Position restriction
Weight loss
Pitfalls and Challenges
Rain Out Cooling of heated
humidified air water condensation in tubing
Decrease pressure
Warm room
Decrease humidity setting
Warming Cover
