machines" href="http://www.devilbisshc.com/personal_healthcare/sleep_therapy/" target="_blank"> CPAP machines are used in the treatment of sleep apnoea. They are devices which provide a continuous flow of pressurised air to the patient’s windpipe through a length of plastic tubing from a mains powered unit. The air holds the windpipe open, preventing blockages and allowing normal breathing to continue.

Many patients report finding their CPAP machines very uncomfortable and difficult to get used to, but they do work. Doctors use CPAP machines for patients whose sleep apnoea has not been relieved through weight loss.

The machines need to be prescribed by a doctor who will decide on the appropriate air pressure for the individual patient. The device is supplied directly by the manufacturer. The machine needs to be cleaned thoroughly and regularly to prevent dust getting into it and being inhaled, irritating the throat and nasal passages and potentially making the patient ill.

The mask, nasal pillows and tubing should be cleaned each and every day. This needs only warm soapy water and a good rinse. They should then be allowed to dry before being fitted back onto the machines.

The machine itself needs to be cleaned weekly with a damp cloth. Make sure that it is not connected to the mains when you do this. The filter at the back of the machine should be thoroughly cleaned each week too. It will need to be replaced annually.

Humidifiers have been fitted to many modern CPAP machines to prevent the throat from drying out. Humidifiers, if fitted, should be cleaned each week.

Each year the machine should be returned to the manufacturer, local hospital or stockist to be serviced. This will ensure it is in good working order and is working at the appropriate pressure.