Using a CPAP Machine With Oxygen
It's common to have questions about the differences between CPAP machines and oxygen therapy devices. This guide compares these devices, explains when they might be used together, and outlines methods for combining the two therapies.
CPAP Therapy vs. Oxygen Therapy
Both CPAP therapy and oxygen therapy treat breathing-related conditions but differ in purpose, function, and design.
CPAP Therapy
A CPAP machine sends pressurized air through a hose and mask to keep airways open and ensure normal breathing. It is one type of positive airway pressure (PAP) device, alongside BiPAP and APAP machines.
- APAP: Automatically adjusts air pressure based on the user's breathing patterns.
- BiPAP: Delivers different pressure levels for inhalation and exhalation
Oxygen Therapy
Involves using a tank or oxygen concentrator to deliver oxygen-enriched air. This therapy is for conditions causing low blood oxygen levels and does not keep the airway open during sleep like CPAP therapy does.
Can You Use Oxygen With a CPAP Machine?
Yes, CPAP devices can be adapted to work with oxygen therapy. This combination is often recommended when both airway support and supplemental oxygen are needed. Methods to connect the two include bleed-in connectors, integrated oxygen connectors in heated CPAP hoses, or built-in oxygen ports in older CPAP masks.
Conditions Treated With CPAP and Oxygen
Several medical conditions may require a combination of CPAP and oxygen therapy:
- COPD: This includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, where CPAP and oxygen therapy might be combined to manage high blood carbon dioxide levels.
- Overlap Syndrome: When a person has both COPD and obstructive sleep apnea, requiring both therapies.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): This condition involves pauses in breathing due to brain control issues, sometimes treated with both PAP and oxygen therapy.
- Heart Failure: May cause Cheyne-Stokes breathing, where CPAP and oxygen therapy might be used for low nighttime oxygen levels.
Types of Oxygen Systems Used With CPAP Machines
There are three primary types of oxygen systems that can be used with CPAP machines:
- Oxygen Concentrators: Separate oxygen from surrounding air and don't need refills but require a power source.
- Oxygen Tanks: Store oxygen as a gas or liquid, needing regular refills but no electricity.
FAQs
Side effects of using oxygen with a CPAP machine? Combining oxygen therapy with CPAP should be done under medical supervision, as improper oxygen levels can cause serious health issues.
Can you treat sleep apnea with oxygen? Oxygen therapy alone is not recommended for obstructive sleep apnea. It may be used for central sleep apnea, sometimes alongside PAP therapy.
How to connect a CPAP machine to an oxygen system? Connections can be made using bleed-in connectors or masks with oxygen ports. Always consult a doctor for the best connection method.
SleepStyle+ is the new machine with the built-in ability to combine use of Oxygen and CPAP Therapy. Please check the machine at out store.
