CPAP Therapy Support: Finding Help and Resources

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a commonly prescribed treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It works by pressurizing the upper airway so that the throat cannot be blocked breathing during sleep. CPAP therapy is effective, but it takes some getting used to. Fortunately, there are several sources to turn to get help when starting CPAP therapy.

Things You'll Need

• Computer access

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Instructions

• 1

  Call your respiratory therapist. Your therapist (the person who initially demonstrated and fitted your CPAP equipment) is in the best position to know about your particular therapy needs, as well as the ins and outs of your CPAP equipment. If necessary, your therapist can schedule an appointment to give you hands-on training or examine your CPAP machine and its settings.

• 2

  Check the manufacturer's website. All major CPAP manufacturers maintain user documentation for all their devices online, which include step-by-step instructions, FAQs and troubleshooting guides. Many also allow you to ask questions of technical help representatives right online.

• 3

  Join a CPAP support group. Many hospitals -- especially those with sleep centers -- sponsor groups in which CPAP patents can share tips and information about treatment. Often, these groups are facilitated by medical staff who can also answer your questions.

• 4

  Visit the website of the American Sleep Apnea Association (sleepapnea.org). It offers wealth of information sleep apnea, CPAP therapy, the different types of CPAP devices and masks, and how to adjust to sleeping with a CPAP. You can participate in discussion forums to ask questions and get advice from other sleep apnea patients.