The Difference Between APAP & CPAP
Sleep apnea can be debilitating -- but there's hope. CPAPs and APAPs can be very effective treatments. A patient should know the difference between the two devices.
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Terms
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CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. APAP stands for Automatic Positive Airway Pressure. Both terms refer to devices that help the patient breathe by blowing air into his airways. Both machines require the sleeper to wear a mask covering the nose, or the mouth and nose.
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Basic Difference
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The difference between a CPAP and an APAP is that a CPAP blows air at a continuous pressure, while an APAP adjusts the air pressure with each breath.
Reasons for an APAP
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When a sleeper shifts position, a change of air pressure is indicated. When a sleeper has a cold, as well, he needs a different air pressure than when he's well. When the patient changes masks, or when his condition improves, he may need to adjust air pressure.
Features
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APAPs tend to offer more features than CPAPs. One of the most important features is the ability to monitor the patient's progress by recording the pressure he needs.
Cost
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Because it offers additional features and is a more "intelligent" machine, the APAP is more expensive.
Effectiveness
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The APAP is designed to be a more effective machine. However, studies disagree on the relative efficacy of the two devices, and results are likely to vary with the patient.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of ~+) Luis Barreto (Speculando / Photography
