CPAP Therapy

Diagnosis of sleep apnea

How do you know if you have sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is diagnosed using a home sleep test. A home sleep test is an accurate and convenient way to undertake a diagnosis. Find out more about undertaking a home sleep test. If you have already been diagnosed with sleep apnea, the great news is there are treatments that can help you on the journey to better sleep.

What treatments are available for sleep apnea?

Continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP) is considered the gold class treatment for sleep apnea. It uses a machine to help a person who has obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) breathe more easily during sleep. A CPAP machine increases air pressure in your throat so that your airway does not collapse when you breathe in. You use a CPAP machine in combination with a CPAP mask. You use CPAP while you sleep. Your bed partner may sleep better, too!

Types of CPAP machines

There are a variety of different machines that can be used to treat sleep apnea.

Fixed Pressure CPAP Machines (CPAP) - deliver a constant pressure level while you sleep. Comfort features, such as a ramp or pressure relief functions, help to make it more comfortable for the user. Fixed pressure CPAP machines can assist manage mild to moderate OSA patients. With a fixed pressure CPAP, it is important to regularly get assessed by your doctor to ensure your pressure setting is at the optimum for your needs. Browse our Fixed Pressure CPAP Machines »

Automatic CPAP Machines (APAP) - are the automatic version of CPAP Machines. They use algorithms to subtly sense changes in your breathing and will adjust the pressure of the air required to keep your airway open. At certain times of the night you may require less pressure and at other times you might require more. Browse our Automatic Machines »

Bilevel Machines - If you have used a CPAP machine but still find it difficult to adjust your breathing, your doctor may recommend a BiPAP or Bi-Level machine as an alternative. Similar to a CPAP machine, a BiPAP delivers pressurised air through a mask to your airways. The point of difference is that the BiPAP has dual pressure settings, which allows you to get more air in and out of your lungs. Browse our BiLevel and BiPAP Machines »

Types of CPAP masks

Like CPAP machines there is a range of CPAP masks available for you. Finding the right sleep apnea mask for your own level of comfort is essential for the success of your CPAP therapy.

What makes a good CPAP mask? A well-fitted CPAP mask sits securely on your face, seals well under full pressure performs in any normal sleeping position, is simple to refit at any hour of the night, and can be cleaned easily

Full Face CPAP Mask: A mask that covers your nose and mouth. They are a great choice for stability under higher therapy pressures, mouth breathers, and for people with nasal obstructions. Browse our Full Face Masks »

Nasal Mask: A mask that covers your nose. Nasal CPAP Masks are the most popular choice for many CPAP users. This mask is a great choice for those with sensitive skin who can breathe comfortably through the nose. Also a great choice for those who need extra support to keep their sleep apnea mask on  Browse our Nasal Masks »

Nasal Pillows Mask: These masks fit directly into the base of your nose, with pillow-type cushions that seal around your nostrils.  This CPAP mask design that allows patients to read, and watch TV due to its less intrusive design. This mask is compatible with those who experience leakage due to facial hair. Browse our Nasal Pillow Masks »

What To Expect with Sleep Apnea Treatment

After you begin treatment you should start to feel the benefits of CPAP therapy including reducing or alleviating your symptoms of sleep apnea, such as excessive daytime sleepiness and morning headaches. It may take time for you to become comfortable with using CPAP but we will be with you every step of the way. When you are using CPAP, you may need to see your doctor or sleep center regularly. You may also need more sleep studies to adjust the CPAP machine and check whether the treatment is working. You may need to try another type of mask or make other adjustments to your therapy.

Why use CPAP therapy?

CPAP is the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It is the first treatment choice and the most widely used.

Difficulties using CPAP

It is common to experience mild discomfort in the morning when you first start using CPAP but this should subside after you get used to treatment. There are some adjustments you can make to improve comfort levels, including lowering air pressure to start with, increase humidity, adjusting your mask. Everyone is unique and you should work with your sleep therapist to ensure you are receiving the best treatment for you.  We also have a full guide on how to adjust and set up your CPAP.

How to get started on treatment

If you are new to CPAP, you may wish to undertake a trial of treatment to see how you go with therapy and ensure you choose the best equipment for you.

If you know which CPAP machine you require, you can buy a machine or sign up to one of our rent-to-buy payment plans. These plans are great value as you can purchase your machine and spread out the cost over regular monthly repayments.