If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may wonder what exactly it is, and how a continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machine will be able to help you. 

Sleep apnea is a condition where individuals either forget to breathe while they are sleeping, or part of their airway is blocked, making them unable to breathe. The first type of sleep apnea is called central sleep apnea, whereas the second is called obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type that people exhibit. Fortunately, it is also the easier type to treat. 

One of the big challenges with sleep apnea is that people are often unaware that they have it, or how much it is affecting the sleep they get each night. Sleep apnea is often characterized by very loud snoring and fatigue during the day. The fatigue is caused by your body waking up hundreds of times each night in order to start breathing again. Most people are unaware that they are waking up so many times, so they will just feel tired the next day. Fortunately for those suffering from this disorder, CPAP machines can do wonders to solve the problem. Here are some frequently asked questions about CPAP machines.

How do they work?

CPAP machines help treat sleep apnea by providing a continuous stream of oxygen for you to draw on throughout the night. The major component that changes things is the fact that this continuous air pressure will keep your airway open, allowing you to breathe even when your body is relaxed. 

How much do they cost?

According to the American Sleep Association, a CPAP machine will cost anywhere from $500 to $3000 when not covered by insurance. Fortunately, most insurance companies will cover a CPAP machine completely, since sleep apnea can cause other conditions you may experience to become worse. 

What is the upkeep?

Your CPAP machine will likely last around 5 years, though some of the parts should be replaced regularly. For example, if you have a nasal pillow, you should replace it monthly. This is due to the fact that it is actually being placed inside your nose, whereas other face masks can be replaced once every three months. You will also need to purchase a steady stream of 

In conclusion, if you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you should get a CPAP machine as soon as possible. You will be amazed by how much better you sleep. Your partner will probably sleep better as well!