Best CPAP Machine: Breathe Uninterrupted All Night Long

If you struggle with sleep apnea then chances are you’ve been prescribed the use of a CPAP machine to help keep you oxygenated throughout the night. These are a highly effective treatment to aid your breathing, as well as allow you to sleep uninterrupted.

There are many brands and styles of CPAP machines available, some that include humidifier additions, as well as more advanced technology to record sleep patterns to provide a comprehensive view of your sleep health. The following article highlights some of the best CPAP machine reviews available to provide you the information you need to get the machine you need.

Best CPAP Machine: Breathe Uninterrupted All Night Long

What is a CPAP Machine Used For?

CPAP stands for continuous positive air pressure and is considered one of the most effective treatments for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that can be potentially dangerous as it is marked by a continual start and stop in your breathing patterns. Loud snoring, or waking tired after a good night’s sleep can also mark the possibility of you having sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is an even more dangerous diagnosis as it means your throat muscles are relaxing and cutting off your oxygen supply each night.

How Does a CPAP Machine Work?

A CPAP machine uses a small compressor to draw in room temperature air and pressurize it to provide a flow of air to help clear any breathing obstructions you may suffer from. It filters the air to provide you a clean source of air, and some even have a small water tank to help humidify the air as well.

The air is transported to the sleeper via a hose to a mask the sleep wears. Hoses vary in length to provide room for movement, and masks are also available in various styles and sizes for comfort purposes. Sleep apnea can often cause up to 100 interruptions to your sleep a night, and these machines can greatly reduce or even stop them from occurring together- improving your overall health, and providing a reduction in your chances of heart disease and stroke caused by body stress.

You may want to check out: How to Use a CPAP Machine?

Results of Using a CPAP Machine

These machines work right away, with many noticeable results remarked upon after only a night’s use. These include

• Elimination of snoring
• Feeling rested upon waking
• Prevention and/or reversal of cardiovascular disease and stroke brought on by poor body health and stressors
• Lower blood pressure
• Feeling alert and focused during the day

Types of CPAP Machines

There are many different styles of machines from which to choose, and although the purchase of one does require a prescription, you generally are allowed to choose the one you want. They come in a wide range of prices as well, and not all insurance companies cover them either (or may only cover a set cost). Be sure to check what your policy states prior to purchase if that makes a difference in what you choose.

• Features to Consider

Not every machine has the same features, and these options can affect the size and cost of the overall product. They are well worth considering to allow you to know exactly what choice you have, as well as what preferences you may enjoy taking advantage of.

— Mask Choice

There are basically three different styles of masks from which to choose: a nasal mask, nasal pillow, and a full face mask. They each have their own uses, and a discussion with your doctor should take place to determine which is best for your particular needs.

— Noise Level

Most machines are considered very quiet and have a noise level below 30 dBA. If noise is a concern, then be sure to check out the dB levels in advance.

— Humidifier

This is an important feature for anyone living in an arid environment, or who regularly wakes with dry nasal and mouth passages. A CPAP machine can also contribute to dryness making a humidifying feature important for comfort. Some are built in and some are connected.

— Portability

If you like to travel, then having a portable option is probably an important choice to make. Those who regularly suffer from sleep apnea most likely keep one machine by their bed and have one for traveling as well.

— Ramp Adjustment

A ramping feature describes the ability to allow pressure to gradually built, rather than just turn on. This can be much more comfortable to the user.

— Exhalation Relief (EPR)

Sometimes exhaling against pressurized air can be difficult. This feature scales back air as you exhale.

— Heated Tubing

A heated transfer tube doesn’t build condensation within it, a problem that can build mold and mildews and require vigorous cleaning on a regular basis. It also can build up moisture in the mask, resulting in water dripping on the user’s face.

— Mask Alert

Sleepers that move through the night may bump their mask, lose the seal, or take it off completely. An on/off alert beeps to remind you that the mask is no longer being worn so it can be put back on.

— Leak Compensation

If your machine or mask leaks for any reason then you aren’t getting the air you need. This feature notices and adjusts for changes in pressure that may be caused by a leak.

— Data Recording

Various form of data recording, such as how long the machine is used, to more advanced features such as information on apnea events and snoring, are possible. Machines that have this type of capability often allow you to remove the information to bring to your doctor for review and also provide weekly and monthly averages to determine the effectiveness of the treatment and what other steps can be taken for a healthier you.

You may want to read: Best Mini CPAP Machines

Best CPAP Machines to Consider

Remember that the purchase of a CPAP requires a prescription and so is not readily available for you to simply go pick up from the nearest pharmacy. If you want a specific model you will need to look to where it can be ordered from with your doctors prescription.

Also consider that you will need a CPAP cleaner upon maintenance for regular maintenance to keep your machine running properly, and for your general health. The following choices have been picked due to their high consumer ratings. They reflect quality in the industry and dependable use across the US and Canada.

You may want to read: CPAP Cleaning Machine Reviews

Conclusion

As you can see there is a decent variety of makes and models when it comes to CPAP machines. The important thing to consider is what your specific needs are according to your doctor, and which is best for not only your lifestyle but also your health. Although you do need a prescription to order a CPAP, generally you can look around to find the one you will be satisfied with.

The above options highlight some of the types of features you may see, as well as what sort of options exist in such a machine. Whether you are looking for a travel size choice, or are interested in a humidifying experience, there is a model that will work for you.