CPAP FAQ’s
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea.
CPAP treats sleep apnoea by providing a gentle flow of positive air pressure through a mask to keep the airways open during sleep.
The initial appointment will take approximately 1.5 hours, It is at this appointment that you will trial a number of different masks to find the one that best suites your needs.
You will be provided with a mask and machine to take home with you to trial for a period of 4 weeks.
Over the course of the next 4 weeks you will have 3 subsequent visits where well-trained staff will monitor your progress, troubleshoot any problems that you may encounter and address any concerns you may have; all to ensure that you get the most out of your treatment.
Once on CPAP you should return once every 6 months to get your mask and machine serviced and to ensure that your treatment is still working appropriately.
It is recommended that a review sleep study be conducted once every 12 months and more often if you have lost or gained a marked amount of weight. *Yearly sleep studies are covered by Medicare.
When used properly, CPAP can alleviate the following symptoms caused by sleep apnoea:
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Poor concentration or memory
- Decreased libido or impotence
- Decreased attention
- Depression
- Decreased dexterity
- Personality changes