Learn About CPAP and BiPAP

Sleep Apnea Treatment with CPAP

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is designed for patients who have Sleep Apnea. It is the most common and effective form of treatment. It not only provides a good nights sleep for the patient but also for the spouse as sometimes their sleep is disrupted by constant snoring. Complications from CPAP include poor toleration to high pressures and uncomfortable masks. It is important to find a company that can help you troubleshoot these problems.

Troubleshooting CPAP Equipment

Our Care Specialists take the time to troubleshoot various problems with our patients. If you are a new CPAP user we follow-up with you after you receive a new CPAP machine. We educate patients on the ramp feature. The ramp provides a much lower pressure than what is prescribed. It enables the patient to start at a very low pressure and once activated "ramps" up to the optimal pressure usually in about 30 minutes. This allows the patient to get to sleep before optimal pressure is reached. If the patient wakes up, we again emphasize using the Ramp feature.

Sometimes patients will have problems with their CPAP mask. Americare has a wide variety of CPAP masks to choose from. As a member of our Supply-Plus program you have the flexibility of choosing different types of CPAP masks.

The Difference: CPAP vs BiPAP

CPAP machines offer one constant pressure during inhalation and exhalation. It works well for patients who have low pressures. However, many patients with higher pressures have difficulties tolerating the pressure. Many patients are not educated with the many benefits that BiPAP offer. Unlike CPAP, BiPAP machines have two pressures: inhalation and exhalation. The exhalation is dramatically reduced so the patient can usually tolerate the pressures. Patients who have been diagnosed with Central Sleep Apnea will be eligible for a BiPAP SV or ST, which offers a back-up respiratory rate when they stop breathing. Speak with your doctor concerning what is best for you.

CPAP Compliance

CPAP Compliance is important with patients who have been diagnosed with Sleep Apnea. Patients sometimes have problems with CPAP, need support, encouragement and help to pinpoint specific problems. At Americare we follow-up with our patients to ensure their comfort and compliance. Our goal is for you to Sleep Better Now!