Sleep apnea is a dangerous sleeping disorder. Typically, a person will need to check into a sleep lab for a night's sleep in order to be diagnosed with it. Usually, a person with this affliction will cease to breathe several times during the night. Sometimes, the obstruction of breathing can last for as long as twenty seconds at time. Clearly, this is not good for the body. A lot of people who suffer from sleep apnea experience many daytime side effects such as headaches and frequent drowsiness. The use of continuous positive airway pressure devices can significantly alleviate the disorder, and even cure it.

Early literature clearly describes individuals with sleep apnea as character traits that are incredibly similar to sleeping disorder. However, the first diagnosis was not until 1965. The first sleep apnea machine was invented in 1981, and has been evolving ever since. The earlier models were noisy and bulky. Nonetheless, the technology for these machines evolved dramatically and by the late 1980s Continued Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP machines, were adopted.

Although CPAP masks may seem like ventilators, they are not. It is used only to aid sleepers and give slight pressure when the sleeper ceases to breathe. Unlike a ventilator, CPAP machines create positive pressure while opening the airways. The machine will only push the air into the lungs during obstruction to prevent sleep apnea. However, the sleeper performs a majority of the breathing work, and the machine is only designed to help.

Some people may have problems adjusting to a new sleep regimen that involves the use of these CPAP masks. In these situations, it is most imperative to have a CPAP mask that fits appropriately. The doctor that prescribes the machine can help the patient achieve the perfect fit. Additionally, the masks are available with a variety of different comfort options. Some masks are available with gel cushions, which are the most comfortable, and some come with standard padding. Nonetheless, it is most important that the mask provide a tight airlock seal around the sleeper's nose and mouth to prevent machine malfunction, and ensure the best comfort available.

The proper use of CPAP masks and machines provide the sleeper with many additional benefits. Sleepers find that after just a couple uses of the machine, they are more energetic and less drowsy at work. Additionally, the partners of the sleepers report less snoring during the night. Because of the low amount of oxygen the sleepers receive during a typical night's sleep, sleepers with sleep apnea also report a decrease in the painful migraines throughout the day. The positive effects on their lives are absolutely endless!

However, there are some drawbacks to the use of these machines. Initially, the machine can be slightly noisy and a bit restricting. This may take a few nights to get used to. Some sleepers may take longer than others when adjusting to the new sleeping requirements. Nonetheless, the machine will help the sleeper achieve a great night sleep that even their partner will appreciate.

CPAP machines are available to help alleviate and rid the sleeper of the problem while providing a comfortable night's sleep. Proper fitting and attention to comfort can provide sleepers with an easy and comfortable remedy for their sleeping needs. Although the machine may initially be a bit loud, sleepers will adjust and find comfort in the gentle humming and steady breathing through their CPAP mask.