If your child has been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, it may come as a bit of a shock to you. However bad it might seem from the outset, now that you know what your child is suffering from, the good news is that you can do something about it.
Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a treatment that is used to alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnoea and help sufferers get a better quality of sleep. If CPAP is completely new to you and your family, we have answered some of the questions that may be on your mind.
1. How does CPAP therapy work?
CPAP therapy works by using a mask that fits over your child’s mouth and nose. Air is gently pushed through a tube into the mask by a specially designed machine. The air is pushed through the tubing, through the mask and into your child’s throat and has the effect of keeping your child’s airways open. This, in turn, helps your little one to breathe more normally and get a good night’s sleep.
2. What is a CPAP machine?
A CPAP machine is the machine that pushes the air into your child’s throat while they sleep. It comprises of a CPAP unit, tubing and a facemask that covers the nose and mouth. Some newer CPAP machines also come with a humidifier that heats the air that is pushed through. There are many different types of face mask available such as pillow masks and nasal masks.
3. Where can you purchase a CPAP machine?
CPAP machines in Australia are available for purchase from manufacturers and retailers. In addition, you can buy a CPAP machine from online retailers. Be sure to check whether your health insurance company will cover the cost of your child’s CPAP machine. Second hand machines are also available to purchase and there are some good deals to be availed of in this way.
4. Can my child travel with a CPAP machine?
Some parents worry that the requirement to have continuous CPAP therapy will mean that their child will be unable to travel. While treatment should not be stopped while on holiday, there’s no need to worry. Fortunately, there are travel CPAP machines available that are smaller and lighter and can be easily packed away. This means that your child can still enjoy their holiday without missing their CPAP treatment.
With CPAP therapy, your child will experience a new lease of life that only a restful night’s sleep can provide. CPAP therapy is something to be embraced and not worried about and warmed with a little information; we hope that’s exactly how you feel.
