To get an overall view of Sleep Apnea, click this image to go to our Sleep Apnea Overview page. It gives a clear view of the causes, symptoms and treatments for Sleep Apnea.
What is the role of a CPAP pillow to significantly enhance the benefits of CPAP therapy treatment? CPAP here stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It is a type of breathing therapy for patients in intensive care units or people with sleep apnea disorder. This disorder is characterized by snoring and frequent pauses in breathing during sleep.
CPAP breathing therapy uses a CPAP machine. The machine stops obstructive sleep apnea by delivering a stream of compressed air through a hose to a nose mask or a full-face mask. The air pressure makes unobstructed breathing possible and prevents the apnea and the snoring that accompanies it.
However, while CPAP machines are great life savers, many people find them very uncomfortable to use. This is happens because of the mask and the tube that connects to the small air compressor in the machine. When a person using the machine changes position and turns his or her head, the mask may shift causing pressurized air to leak. However, with the support of a CPAP pillow, these common problems can be avoided.
To get an overall view of Sleep Apnea, click this image to go to our Sleep Apnea Overview page. It gives a clear view of the causes, symptoms and treatments for Sleep Apnea.
It is estimated that at least 65% of patients have a hard time sleeping (averaging only 4 hours a night) while using the machine. Discomfort is the number one reason why many patients give up the CPAP therapy. However, the use of a CPAP pillow as an accessory to the CPAP machine solves the problem.
A CPAP pillow is ergonomically designed for the CPAP mask user’s need. It gives the patient more freedom of movement during the night. Aside from supporting the neck and keeping the spine aligned, a CPAP pillow can reduce leaks from the mask. It also decreases the pressure of the mask against the face. Because of the better neck support, it increases the flow of air through the patient’s airway passage.
Many people who have trouble sleeping because of discomfort caused by the CPAP machine are said to have been able to sleep soundly after using a CPAP pillow. They reported to have slept for much longer hours by using a CPAP pillow. A CPAP pillow cradles the patients’ head and allows them to roll on their side or back without the mask being shoved aside.
What is the best CPAP pillow?
A CPAP pillow should be able to provide three major benefits to the user. First, the user should be able to accommodate the CPAP mask and help prevent common problems such as leaking. Next, the CPAP pillow should be able to help the user maintain a comfortable sleeping position that won’t shift the mask out of place even if the user changes sleeping position. Lastly, the CPAP pillow should be able to provide the ultimate comfort so that the user will enjoy a sound, uninterrupted sleep.
The best type of CPAP pillow will be different for every user. There are many factors to consider when choosing a CPAP pillow such as the sleeping position and the type of CPAP mask being used. Here are some examples of the most recommended CPAP pillow available in the market.
The Countour CPAP pillow is specially designed to accommodate any type of CPAP mask. It is ideal for side sleepers wearing a CPAP mask to reduce mask pressure, leaking and improve overall comfort while lying down to sleep.
The Sleep Apnea Pillow for CPAP and BIPAP users works by increasing compliance to CPAP and BIPAP therapy treatment. It provides ultimate comfort to the user even with a sleep apnea mask on. This CPAP pillow helps prevent leaks and keeps the mask in place even when shifting sleeping positions. Its size is 26 x 20 inches, just appropriate for any adult.
The SONA FDA-Cleared Anti-Snore and Mild Sleep Apnea Pillow helps prevent snoring by positioning the head and neck optimally to create a clear breathing passage while asleep. This CPAP pillow can be used in conjunction with a CPAP mask or dental appliance for sleep apnea. This pillow is highly recommended because it is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The Core Product 4-inch CPAP pillow provides support for the head and neck to ensure CPAP compliance. It features a 4 inches quilted side panel that is very durable. It is firm enough to support the head and neck but soft enough to provide comfort while sleeping.
The Core Product Mini CPAP Pillow is intended for CPAP mask users who prefer a CPAP pillow with less elevation. It has a unique shape that can accommodate any type of CPAP mask. It comes with a fitted pillow case and is machine washable. Its mini size makes it an ideal item for sleep apnea sufferers who love to travel.
To get an overall view of Sleep Apnea, click this image to go to our Sleep Apnea Overview page. It gives a clear view of the causes, symptoms and treatments for Sleep Apnea.
CPAP pillows manufacturers come out with various designs, depending on the perceived needs and preferences of target patients. Usually, the pillows are made of soft polyester and foam. Some pillows have underside grooves for the arms of patients who tend to sleep on their side. Some are designed for hugging. Still, other pillows are contoured for the comfort of the neck and head. All of them, however, are supposed to ensure that the CPAP mask will not be displaced when the patient turns on his or her side or back while asleep.
