CPAP / PAP Titration

About This Treatment

PAP (positive airway pressure) therapy uses a light mask over the nose or nose and mouth while sleeping. The mask is attached to a long hose connected to a small unit allowing gently pressurized air to enter the throat through the nasal or oral passages. The air holds the airway open and allows a patient to breathe and sleep normally.

Because people's faces vary widely in shape, size and form, there are several different style masks, including:

• Standard masks that cover only the nose
• Masks that cover both the nose and mouth
• Nasal inserts or pillows placed directly into the nostrils

Patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with their physician between 30 and 90 days of usage to discuss any complications, challenges or complaints regarding the device. It is important to establish a comfortable routine as early as possible in order to ensure successful treatment involving PAP therapy.

What is CPAP / PAP titration?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are the most common treatment for sleep-related breathing disorders. Following a sleep study, patients are fitted for a CPAP device to keep the airway open and ensure consistent, non-labored breathing during sleep.

During the study, a sleep technologist will adjust the PAP levels in response to breathing events (interruptions in breathing or sleep). The technologist works to find the lowest pressure that will prevent sleep disturbances (like apneas and periods of wakefulness) during all stages of sleep and for all body positions. At the conclusion of the study, the PAP device will be specifically matched for the patient's individual sleeping patterns and problems.

Patients receive education, a hands-on demonstration and a careful mask fitting so they can properly use the device at home. Our sleep technologists also provide tips for getting acclimated to the PAP device. Each device should be properly titrated for the patient's use at the time they take it home.

It is possible that titration will need to be adjusted later, especially if a patient experiences weight loss or undergoes certain surgical procedures.