Sleep apnea is characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep. These episodes, called apneas, last ten seconds or longer and occur on and off throughout the night. Cumulatively, they can cause a rise in blood pressure and potentially lead to heart problems and stroke.

For those diagnosed with the most common form of this condition (called obstructive sleep apnea because it’s caused by an obstruction that interferes with the flow of air), an assisted breathing device is often recommended. These come in three primary forms: continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), variable positive airway pressure (VPAP), and automatic positive airway pressure (APAP).

Don’t let the names put you off. The bottom line is that these are devices designed to keep you breathing regularly throughout the night.

So let’s take a look at each of these …

The CPAP devise is nothing more than a nose mask (similar to an oxygen mask), attached by a hose to a small device that creates a flow of pressurized air. This keeps the airway open and your breathing natural and unobstructed. The level of pressure set by the devise is determined by your physician after an overnight test. One quick note: the mask is worn throughout the night, which can be difficult for some people, though most learn to adjust to it after a time.

The VPAP devise (also referred to as biPap or bi-level positive airway pressure) is slightly more advanced. Instead of creating a consistent flow of pressurized air throughout the night, it’s able to interpret your breathing pattern and provide more pressure when you’re inhaling, less when you’re exhaling. These are the two critical trigger points for sleep apnea. By aiding in the taking in of a breath and not interfering with the exhalation of breath, the VPAP machine keeps your airways open and unobstructed.

The APAP devise is the most sophisticated of the three and still experimental, though it has been approved by the FDA. It uses a computer and pressure sensors to monitor the level of breathing difficulty you’re experiencing throughout the night. The air pressure is adjusted automatically based on your breathing pattern. When you struggle to breathe, the pressure is increased. When your breathing is natural and comfortable, the pressure is decreased.

All three of these assisted breathing devices can be effective, though wearing them may take some getting used to. The CPAP is generally the most economical of the three, with the APAP the most expensive. You’ll want to work with your physician and your health insurance provider to determine the best option for your particular case.

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[tags]assisted breathing devices, CPAP, VPAP, sleep apnea[/tags]