Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy devices can feature automatic pressure adjustment. These devices monitor breathing patterns and adjust the air pressure delivered throughout the night. For instance, higher pressure may be delivered during periods of apnea or hypopnea, while lower pressure is used when breathing is normal. This dynamic adjustment contrasts with fixed-pressure CPAP devices which maintain a constant, pre-determined pressure level.
Adaptive pressure delivery offers several potential advantages. It may improve patient comfort, particularly during exhalation, and potentially enhance therapy adherence. By delivering only the required pressure, it can minimize side effects like dry nose and bloating. Historically, CPAP therapy involved manually titrating pressure levels during sleep studies. The development of automated adjustments represents a significant advance in providing personalized and more comfortable treatment.
