CPAP & BiPAP Education

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 night’s sleep for the patient, but also for the spouse, as sometimes his or her 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 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 you to start at a very low pressure, and, once activated, "ramps" up to the optimal pressure, usually in about 30 minutes. This allows you to get to sleep before optimal pressure is reached. If you wake up, we again emphasize using the ramp feature.

Sometimes patients will have problems with their CPAP mask. Elite Home Medical and Respiratory has a wide variety of CPAP masks to choose from. As a member of our “Elite Family” 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. They work well for patients who have low pressures. However, many patients with higher pressures have difficulties tolerating the pressure. Many patients are not educated about the many benefits BiPAP offers. Unlike CPAP, BIPAP machines have two pressures: inhalation and exhalation. The exhalation is dramatically reduced so patients 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

Compliance is important for patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Patients sometimes have problems with CPA and need support, encouragement and help to pinpoint specific problems. At Elite Home Medical and Respiratory, we follow up with our patients to ensure their comfort and compliance. Our goal is for you to enjoy a healthy and restful night’s sleep.

For expert care for your CPAP and BIPAP equipment needs, call Elite Home Medical and Respiratory at (866) 380-1652 or qualify online.