If you are in need of a new PAP device or need supplies for your PAP device please contact our office. You can call at 951-698-6629 or send us a message below.

Positive Airway Pressure

In the picture on the left, you can see upper airway closure in an untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea patient. Note that the airway closure is diffuse, involving both the palate and the base of the tongue. In the second picture (right), CPAP is applied and the airway is splinted open by the positive pressure.

Sleep Apnea Basics: What you need to know before starting therapy

Sleep Apnea is a disorder in which the muscles in the throat relax to the point of collapse, restricting airflow. This causes breathing pauses for seconds to minutes at a time, depriving the brain and body of oxygen. Most people with sleep apnea are unaware they have it. Sleep apnea impacts more than 936 million people worldwide — nearly 10 times greater than previous estimates.

PAP Therapy:

A PAP machine provides you with positive airway pressure (PAP) while you sleep – a specific airflow that’s determined by your doctor. The machine connects to a mask, tubing and humidifier, which work together to gently flow air into your lungs while you sleep, so you can breathe comfortably. This splints the airway open and eliminates the breathing pauses caused by sleep apnea. When you sleep with a PAP machine, you will no longer snore or make choking noises in your sleep.

Adjusting to PAP therapy can take time, up to 4-6 weeks, and the proper education and right mask can make your therapy more comfortable and successful. You can practice wearing and breathing with your mask during the day to become comfortable with the airflow it provides while you sleep. Remember, this experience is different for everyone! We employ 2 full-time sleep technologists to assist with any patient-related PAP issues. Addressing these issues in a timely manner is of paramount importance and having an equipment team on-site allows for better coordination, timely identification of problems, rapid correction of equipment failures. If you are struggling with PAP therapy, we are happy to assist to ensure you can comfortably and effectively continue treatment.

Patient Outcomes:

Treating your sleep apnea will help you sleep better and help improve your energy level and overall health. Before you know it, you’ll get back to feeling your best every day! When you use PAP each night, you can prevent or may even reverse serious health problems linked to sleep apnea such as heart disease and stroke. Your memory and mood may also improve. The quality of your sleep will improve, which, for some people, means you will feel more rested and alert during the daytime. Patients commonly report: resolved morning headaches, less daytime sleepiness and fatigue, improved blood pressure, and less nocturnal awakenings. Your partner might even sleep better because you will stop snoring.