Continuous positive airway pressure

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a form of positive airway pressure (PAP) ventilation in which a flow of air with pressure greater than atmospheric pressure is continuously applied to the upper respiratory tract of a person. This flow is generated by a device to which a flexible hose is connected that in turn feeds air into a mask. The application of positive relative pressure may be intended to prevent upper airway collapse, as occurs in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), or to reduce the work of breathing in conditions such as acute decompensated heart failure. CPAP therapy is highly effective for managing obstructive sleep apnea. Compliance and acceptance of use of CPAP therapy can be a limiting factor, with 8% of people stopping use after the first night and 50% within the first year. For treatment of chronic conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP needs to be used for all sleep, including naps and travel away from home.