CPAP or APAP? Which one is the best for your treatment?

If you suffer from mild to moderate OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) you may be familiar with CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) and APAP (automatic continuous positive airway pressure). CPAP device is usually prescribed first and provides a constant and continuous flow of air during sleep. The constant flow of air is fixed on one pressure setting, forcing air during inhalation and exhalation. With the fixed setting, CPAP can feel overwhelming at times particularly during exhalation.

Unlike CPAP, APAP is set to deliver a continuous airflow fixed within a high and low pressure range. The machine itself will determine how much inhalation pressure you need with each breath. As a patient, your pressure needs may vary from one night to the next or they may even vary from hour to hour. APAP can be effective if set at a low pressure of 4 and a high pressure of 20, however it can be more effective if set closer to your average know CPAP pressure.

At AZ-Sleep, Leonard M. Moss, MD uses the latest technology in home sleep testing equipment and diagnostic monitoring. Dr. Moss will complete a thorough examination in order to determine the best treatment options for each patient. The results of our in home sleep test are read by Dr. Moss to determine the presence of a sleep disorder. In addition to offering CPAP and APAP, we can provide an alternative, an oral sleep appliance. If patients meet the criteria for an oral appliance, we can fabricate one for them. We carefully monitor and track our patients’ progress and response to treatment. Our unique approach and model allows us to quickly diagnose and treat patients. If you or someone you know might be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea, please schedule an initial consultation today with Dr. Moss at 480-945-3629 or visit us at www.headpaininstitute.com for more information.