What does a CPAP machine do? Basically, it is a machine that provides continuous positive airway pressure while you sleep. If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, chances are that you’ve been encouraged to use a CPAP machine on a regular basis to assist you with receiving a good night’s rest and to lower the risk of experiencing specific health issues.

An estimated 18 million people in the United States have sleep apnea. Furthermore, it is believed that an additional 2% to 4% of the population has undiagnosed sleep apnea.

If you have an untreated case of sleep apnea, for example, were you aware that you have an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues? Have you been diagnosed with asthma? A recent study showed that you may face a greater risk of having sleep apnea than individuals that do not have asthma. It was determined that asthma patients are at an estimated 40% greater risk.

If you believe you may have sleep apnea, you can take a home sleep test. When it is determined that you have sleep apnea, you can discuss your treatment options with your physician. While many sleep apnea patients admit that they’re not using their CPAP machines enough, it is vital that you do so.

Since an individual with obstructive sleep apnea may experience a temporary cessation of breathing, or apnea, 60 times or more per hour, it is important to use a CPAP machine as prescribed. In addition to providing a more restful sleep, which is important for health reasons, using a CPAP machine as directed also reduces the risk of other health issues.

In order to experience the most positive results and to ensure that your insurance coverage is ongoing, you should use your CPAP machine a minimum of 4 hours a night over the course of 30 days. If you are 60 years of age of older, it’s more likely that you will need heated humidification for an increased comfort level.

What does a CPAP machine do? It can make a difference in your overall quality of health and daily life.