A brief overview of essential terms to help you understand this standard treatment option for sleep apnea

Understanding the terminology associated with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy can benefit anyone with sleep apnea. 

Whether you’re a new user or someone looking to brush up on your knowledge, this glossary is designed for you. 

This article will walk you through 20 essential terms to help you make informed decisions about your sleep health, ask questions at your family physician, or reach out to your CPAP supply provider with questions about your existing equipment or setup.

Let’s begin!

AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index)

AHI stands for Apnea-Hypopnea Index. It is a measure used to evaluate the severity of sleep apnea based on the number of apnea and hypopnea events per hour of sleep.

Understanding your AHI is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy. A lower AHI generally indicates better-controlled sleep apnea, while a higher AHI may suggest the need for adjustments in your treatment plan.

Apnea

Apnea refers to a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep. It is one of the key symptoms of sleep apnea disorders.

Recognizing apnea events is the first step in diagnosing sleep apnea and determining the need for CPAP therapy. CPAP machines are designed to prevent apnea by maintaining a constant airflow to keep your airways open.

AutoPAP (Autoset Positive Airway Pressure)

AutoPAP is a PAP machine that automatically adjusts the air pressure based on your breathing patterns. It provides variable pressure to meet your specific needs throughout the night.

Unlike standard CPAP machines, which deliver a constant level of pressure, AutoPAP adapts to your needs, making it a more personalized form of therapy. This can be particularly useful for people whose pressure requirements vary from night to night.

BiPAP (Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure)

BiPAP stands for Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure. Unlike CPAP, which delivers a constant level of air pressure, BiPAP provides two different levels: one for inhalation and another for exhalation.

Healthcare professionals often recommend BiPAP for individuals who have difficulty tolerating the constant pressure from a CPAP machine.

It is also used for conditions like central sleep apnea and complex sleep apnea, where variable pressure settings are beneficial, and with higher CPAP pressures—typically within the range of 14 to 17 centimetres of water pressure (cm H2O).

Compliance

Compliance refers to the regular and consistent use of your CPAP machine as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Good compliance is crucial for the success of your CPAP therapy and is normally defined as using your CPAP machine 70% of the night, 70% of the time.

Inconsistent use can lead to less effective treatment and ongoing symptoms of sleep apnea. 

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It is a type of therapy used to treat obstructive sleep apnea by delivering a constant stream of air to keep your airways open during sleep.

A CPAP machine consists of a motor that draws in air, filters and pressurizes it, and delivers it through a hose and mask. The constant air pressure prevents the collapse of your airways, allowing for uninterrupted breathing during sleep.

Data Logging

Data logging refers to the recording of therapy data by your CPAP machine, such as usage hours, AHI, and mask leaks.

Data logging allows you and your healthcare provider to track the effectiveness of your therapy over time. This information can be helpful to your doctor or healthcare team for making adjustments to your treatment plan.

Exhalation Relief (Also Known as Pressure Relief)

Exhalation relief is a feature in some CPAP machines that reduces air pressure during exhalation.

This feature enhances comfort by making it easier to exhale against the incoming air pressure, which can be particularly beneficial for new users adjusting to the therapy.

Filter

The filter in a CPAP machine helps to remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles from the air before it is delivered to your airways.

Regularly changing or cleaning the filter is essential for the longevity of your CPAP machine and for ensuring that you’re breathing clean, filtered air.

Full-Face Mask

A full-face mask covers both your nose and mouth, providing an alternative to nasal masks or nasal pillows for those who breathe through their mouth during sleep.

Sleep specialists often recommend full-face masks for people who have nasal congestion or who tend to breathe through their mouth. They can also be helpful for individuals who require higher pressure settings.

Hose (Also Known as CPAP Tubing)

The hose is the flexible tube that connects the CPAP machine to the mask, delivering the pressurized air to your airways.

To ensure optimal performance and hygiene, it is vital to regularly clean the hose and check for any signs of wear or damage.

Humidifier

Many CPAP machines come with a built-in or attachable humidifier to add moisture to the air you breathe, making the therapy more comfortable.

A humidifier can help alleviate symptoms of dryness and irritation in the nose and throat, which are common side effects of CPAP therapy.

Hypopnea

Hypopnea refers to shallow or abnormally low breathing, usually while asleep. It is less severe than apnea but can still disrupt sleep quality.

Unlike apnea, where breathing stops altogether, hypopnea involves a significant reduction in airflow. Both apnea and hypopnea events contribute to your AHI score, which assesses the severity of sleep apnea.

Mask Leak

Mask leak refers to the unintended escape of air from the edges of your CPAP mask, which can reduce the effectiveness of your therapy.

If you experience frequent mask leaks, consider adjusting the straps for a better fit or consult your healthcare provider or CPAP supply store for advice on selecting a different mask style that better suits your facial structure.

Nasal Mask

A nasal mask is a CPAP mask that covers only the nose and is secured with straps around the head.

Nasal masks are generally lighter and less intrusive than full-face masks, making them a good option for people who feel claustrophobic. However, they may not be suitable for mouth-breathers or those with nasal congestion.

Nasal Pillow Mask

Nasal pillows are small, cushion-like inserts that seal around the nostrils, providing an alternative to traditional nasal or full-face masks.

Nasal pillows are ideal for people who find traditional masks uncomfortable or claustrophobic. They are also useful for those who wear glasses or have facial hair, as they offer a more open field of vision and a better seal.

Rainout

Rainout refers to water condensation in the CPAP hose, which can occur when warm, humidified air cools as it travels through the hose.

Rainout can be uncomfortable and disruptive to your therapy. Many modern CPAP machines support heated hoses to minimize this issue, but understanding what rainout is can help you take additional steps to prevent it, such as insulating your hose or buying a heated tubing to help maintain the humidity level to the mask.

Ramp Time

Ramp time is a setting on your CPAP machine that allows you to start with a lower air pressure, which gradually increases to your prescribed level over a set period.

Ramp time can usually be adjusted using the settings menu on your CPAP machine. It is designed to make the initial period of falling asleep more comfortable.

Sleep Study

A sleep study, or polysomnography, is a diagnostic test to identify sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.

A sleep study is often the first step in diagnosing sleep apnea and determining the need for CPAP therapy. It measures various physiological parameters, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and brain activity, to provide a comprehensive overview of your sleep health.

Titration

Titration is the process of adjusting the air pressure settings on your CPAP machine to find the most effective and comfortable level for you.

Titration is usually performed during a second sleep study and is crucial for optimizing the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy. Your healthcare provider will use the results to prescribe the appropriate pressure settings for your machine.

Final Thoughts

Understanding these essential sleep apnea and CPAP terms can significantly enhance your ability to talk about your CPAP therapy experience. 

With this knowledge, you’re better equipped to communicate with healthcare providers, ask questions, and make informed decisions about your treatment.

Remember, each individual’s needs are unique, so consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your specific condition.

If you have questions about your hardware or which CPAP machines or accessories might be best for your needs or preferences, we’d love to hear from you. As Canada’s leading online CPAP supply store in customer satisfaction, we have the experience and product selection to provide options that will help you take back your sleep and start your days energized!