APAP is a type of positive airway pressure (PAP) device that delivers air pressure through a nasal or full-face mask to keep your airways open while you sleep. Unlike CPAP, which delivers a set air pressure, APAP machines automatically adjust the air pressure based on your needs.
How APAP is different than CPAP
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor has probably told you that you need to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. But what is CPAP? And how is it different than APAP?
CPAP is a treatment for sleep apnea that uses a machine to deliver air pressure through a mask to keep your airway open while you sleep. The air pressure is set at a level that is just enough to keep your airway open.
APAP is a newer type of sleep apnea machine that delivers air pressure that automatically adjusts based on your needs. The machine tracks your breathing and delivers the air pressure that you need at any given moment.
There are a few key differences between CPAP and APAP:
· CPAP delivers a constant air pressure, while APAP delivers air pressure that adjust based on your needs.
· CPAP machines are usually larger and require a power source, while APAP machines are often smaller and can run on batteries.
· CPAP machines typically have a humidifier, while APAP machines may or may not have a humidifier.
· CPAP machines are often covered by insurance, while APAP machines may not be.
If you’re considering a sleep apnea machine, talk to your doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of CPAP and APAP to find the best option for you.
