Unlike continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), EPAP does not require any bulky or noisy machinery.
It also doesn’t require batteries or electricity.
EPAP works similarly to CPAP but only provides minimal resistance on inhaling and positive pressure on exhaling.
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How EPAP Works
Apnea occurs during sleep when your airway collapses as you exhale.
Because the airway does not automatically open back up, you temporarily stop breathing.
Positive airway pressure (PAP) is a treatment for sleep apnea.
PAP devices work by sending pressurized air through your airway.
This helps keep the airway open so you don’t stop breathing.
EPAP is a mode of breathing support that only applies positive pressure when you are exhaling.
One equipment that utilizes EPAP to treat sleep apnea is called Bongo RX.This technology is known asnasal EPAP.
According to the manufacturer, the rig has valves that open when you inhale and close when you exhale.
The exhaled air generates pressure so your airway stays open.
BiPAP (bilevel positive pressure)is another bang out of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy.
It also applies positive pressure while inhaling and exhaling, but not as a continuous pressure.
EPAP is different thanCPAP and BiPAPin that EPAP does not deliver positive pressure during inhalation.
It only delivers positive pressure when you are exhaling.
IPAP stands for “inspiratorypositive pressure.”
APAP stands for “automatic positive airway pressure.”
What Is a Sleep Apnea Pillow?
Asleep apnea pillowis a specially designed pillow made for people that use a CPAP rig.
Some designs have indentions for the CPAP hose to travel through while you sleep.
Others may give more comfort when you’re resting on your side.
These can help prevent air leaks from your face mask.
Why Are PAP Machines Needed?
Sometimes these structures need to be surgically removed to cure sleep apnea.
Both devices deliver pressurized air to your airway while you sleep.
An EPAP gear, however, only delivers pressure when you exhale.
This allows the unit to be smaller and lighter, and it doesn’t require batteries or electricity.
EPAP devices may not work as well as CPAP devices for people with more severe sleep apnea.
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