Humidifiers for CPAP Machines
CPAP machines increasingly feature humidifiers. This is one of many changes which have been implemented in the design of the machine over the past two decades intended to make the treatment more comfortable for more patients. Other changes have included machines becoming quieter and smaller.
In fact, CPAP machines do not require the humidifier and the devices can treat sleep apnoea just as well without one. However they do play a role in the treatment of those patients who struggle to become accustomed to the treatment. A simple humidifier therefore can make the whole difference between the success and failure of CPAP treatment. Other changes such as quieter equipment have ensured that CPAP is more accessible than ever before to a wider range of patients.
Humidifiers were first introduced to CPAP machines because conventional devices tended to dry out the nasal passages and throats of patients. Before the flow of air caused the throat to dry out. In many patients, this caused sore throats and nose bleeds. The humidifier stops the air from being too dry.
CPAP machines with humidifiers are similar to standard devices except that they feature a water tank. The air passes over the surface of the water before being inhaled, collecting evaporated water droplets and ensuring that it is adequately humid. So that adequate water can evaporate, the tank tends to be either heated or have a large surface area.
Some people mistakenly believe that humidifiers blow warmer air into the throat. Although it may feel this way, this is not strictly true. In fact, the air feels warmer simply because it is more humid than the air outside the CPAP machine.
Although humidifiers aren’t strictly necessary for the success of the treatment, they can make a significant difference. Despite all of the success stories associated with CPAP, its major downfall is that many patients find it hard to get used to. If the humidifier is the simple piece of technology which inexpensively and simply makes CPAP treatment that bit more accessible than perhaps it is the answer to every sleep apnoea sufferer’s dreams.
