Gone are the days when CPAP machines were lumbering, enormous monstrosities that were impossible to travel with and barely fit bedside. The Insomnia and Sleep Institute of Arizona is proud to set the standard for sleep medicine in Phoenix, and the gold standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains CPAP therapy (though some patients may benefit from the Inspire implant if CPAP therapy has failed them). As the Face of Sleep Medicine in Phoenix, we offer unprecedented staffing levels with three sleep specialists, a physician assistant with a Masters in Sleep, and a clinical psychologist who focuses on CBT for insomnia.
Millions of people have OSA, and thanks to the latest technology, CPAP therapy in Phoenix is getting even more convenient. The latest positive airway pressure devices are smaller than ever, easily fitting on bedside tables and in luggage. Today’s CPAP technology is very travel-friendly, which makes strides in improving the overall therapy method. According to one of the directors of a popular CPAP machine manufacturer, people today are looking for “convenience and comfort.” This means CPAP machines that are “small, effective, and easy-to-use.” There is no added medical benefit to smaller technologies, but a lot of patients have found that the smaller the CPAP machine, the easier it is to integrate into their lifestyle.
Benefits of New CPAP Therapy
The advantages of CPAP therapy overall are clear. It has been the foundational management tool for OSA for several years. It is non-invasive, effective, and allows users to have uninterrupted, high-quality sleep. Those who like the newer compact devices say they are easier to carry and a must-have for frequent travelers (especially as travel restrictions lift). As an added perk, some users say that the smaller devices are also sleeker and come with tubing that is more flexible, and that increases the comfort level for some. Plus, smaller machines often mean less cleaning and maintenance, although it is still critical to follow all care instructions.
Still, this doesn’t mean that the latest CPAP machines (or any CPAP machine) will work for every single person. Some patients simply can’t use CPAP therapy, though it is required to try CPAP before being considered for a more invasive option like the Inspire implant. According to one researcher, “Those who aren’t able to tolerate a regular-sized CPAP may find themselves in the same situation with a smaller version.” There is also a cost to consider. Right now, the smaller the CPAP machine, the higher the price tag it will have, in many cases—though many insurance policies do cover CPAP technology. Many smaller options are also battery-operated and have to be charged daily before use. There is some evidence that certain small models don’t have ideal pressure variance or algorithm responsiveness, which means that patients might need to set up a higher pressure when working with a small version to achieve the same level of effectiveness as a larger model.
Considerations for CPAP in Phoenix
If you are strictly considering an additional CPAP machine for traveling, keep in mind that humidification isn’t always a feature available on smaller devices. Smaller doesn’t inherently mean “better” for everyone. If you’re a frequent flyer, it may make sense to have two different models—one for home and one for travel—but in many cases, the slightly larger technology may have more benefits for you while you are at home.
There are many reasons a smaller device has constraints, starting with the airflow regulations. Positive airway is achieved via continuous forced air through a system that is closed. When someone breathes against that flow, a back pressure occurs that breaks the airway. This means that a fan has to offer up to 150 liters of air every minute, and that will limit just how tiny the fan can be—and, in turn, the size of the CPAP machine.
Is CPAP for You?
If you have been diagnosed with OSA or think you might have OSA, the first step is a consultation with a sleep specialist. This is how a diagnosis can be made, and testing and treatment can then commence. Those with OSA do need to try CPAP first before moving to more invasive options, and a sleep specialist will help match you with the best technology for you and your needs. The smallest machines are about 5×3 inches, but of course, size is just one factor. To schedule your consultation to see if you suffer from OSA or any other sleep disorder, contact The Insomnia and Sleep Institute today by completing the online form or calling the office.
