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Nasal CPAP

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Nasal CPAP
Nasal CPAP

Alternative Names    Return to top

Continuous positive airway pressure; CPAP; Bilevel positive airway pressure; BiPAP

Definition    Return to top

CPAP stands for "continuous positive airway pressure." CPAP is a treatment that delivers slightly pressurized air during the breathing cycle. This makes breathing easier for persons with obstructive sleep apnea and other respiratory problems.

Information    Return to top

Nasal CPAP is given through a mask that is placed and secured over the person's nose or nose and mouth. Slight positive pressure is used to increase the amount of air breathed in without increasing the work of breathing.

A similar machine, called BiPAP (for bilevel positive airway pressure) is used as an alternative to CPAP.

These devices are useful for children with collapsible airways, small lung volumes, or muscle weakness that make it difficult to breathe.

CPAP or BiPAP may also be used for those who have acute respiratory failure, central sleep apnea, heart failure, or COPD.

It can take some time to become used to a CPAP device. However, most people who receive help from a respiratory therapist or doctor are able to use and benefit from the machine.

References    Return to top

Basner RC. Continuous positive airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea. N Engl J Med. 2007 Apr 26;356(17):1751-8.

Weaver TE, Maislin G, Dinges DF, Bloxham T, George CF, Greenberg H, et al. Relationship between hours of CPAP use and achieving normal levels of sleepiness and daily functioning. Sleep. 2007 Jun 1;30(6):711-9.

Update Date: 9/12/2008

Updated by: Allen J. Blaivas, DO, Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Veteran Affairs, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange , NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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