Diseases & Conditions
CPAP machines and masks: Which ones are right for you?
We've boiled it down to several tips to help you make decisions and begin treatment, so you can start to feel better.
- Reviewed by Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Health Letter
Your doctor says you need continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to treat your sleep apnea, and you're eager to begin treatment. You're also a little worried, since you've heard that using a CPAP system can be uncomfortable and challenging. How do you choose a system that will give you the best odds of success? Here are some tips to help.
Understand the treatment
CPAP is the first-line treatment for people with obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder marked by repeated pauses in breathing caused by a blocked airway.
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About the Author
Heidi Godman, Executive Editor, Harvard Health Letter
About the Reviewer
Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Health Letter
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