The most popular remedy for sleep apnea is positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP). A PAP machine is a small device nearly the size of a shoebox. A flexible tube links this machine to the mask that one wears over their mouth or /or nose. The top CPAP machines work by pushing air through the respiratory tract at a pressure that is high enough to prevent apneas. These machines are used in both central sleep and obstructive apnea. The pressure in the device is set depending on the condition of the patient.
Choosing a CPAP Machine
CPA machines assist individuals suffering sleep apnea to gain relief from symptoms of this condition. Sleep apnea is characterized by obstructive and loud snoring, daytime drowsiness, and low blood pressure, among other symptoms.
In the market, you’ll get many PAP machines with varying features. When the medic diagnoses you with sleep apnea, the next challenge becomes selecting an ideal PAP device. PAP machines are generally covered by insurance and are usually purchased or rented via a home healthcare company. You can also OPT to buy the PAP machine online. But it’s advisable to first rent the device before purchasing to determine if it has the necessary features.
Factors to Consider When Shopping for CPAP Machines
When shopping for top CPAP machines, you should know what to look for. The primary factor is the price. You can get the PAP machines for as low as $200 and as high as $2,000. Additionally, you should also mind the portability of the machine, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. If you travel often, you should buy an FAA-approved gadget, mostly the compact size.
Other significant features that you should check include ramp time, humidifier’s capacity, preset alarms, and therapy data tracking. Additionally when purchasing your PAP machine you should consider the capability of the device to convert to foreign currents, DC (direct current options, the machines ability to adjust to varying altitudes, bi-level machines that can work on two pressures, i.e., inhalation and exhalation, automatic pressure sensing and finally a machine approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
You should consult your homecare company agent or your doctor for the best CPAP machine that will fit your lifestyle. AS you choose your machine, you need to consider the cost limits set by your insurer. It’s essential to know that insurance companies don’t cover all types of PAP machines.