A CPAP machine, or continuous positive airway pressure device, is a medical device used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition in which the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing the person to stop breathing for short periods of time. CPAP machines work by delivering a constant stream of pressurized air through a mask worn over the nose and mouth, which helps to keep the airway open during sleep.
If you have been diagnosed with OSA, your doctor may recommend that you use a CPAP machine. CPAP machines can be purchased from a variety of sources, including online retailers, medical supply stores, and durable medical equipment (DME) providers. When choosing a CPAP machine, it is important to consider the following factors: