Getting used to your positive airway pressure therapy
If you have sleep apnea and your doctor has prescribed positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, you might anticipate or already have difficulties getting used to the device. You know that PAP is the best way to treat your apnea and feel better during the day, but getting into using PAP regularly is a struggle. Whether you have anxiety or claustrophobia or are having difficulty with PAP for some other reason, a PAP Nap can help you with your problems.
What is a PAP Nap?
A PAP Nap is a short daytime study for people who are having problems starting or continuing their PAP therapy for their sleep breathing disorder. During the study, you’ll work one-on-one with a sleep technologist, using relaxation, deep breathing, and desensitization techniques to try to become more comfortable with PAP therapy. The study includes a cardiorespiratory recording (with minimal sensor usage) and counseling to help you overcome any fears or discomforts about PAP therapy and to become more comfortable with the mask and pressure sensations. The goal of the PAP Nap is to help you get used to using the equipment yourself so you are more likely to use PAP therapy on a nightly basis at home.
Are PAP Naps effective?
The Cleveland Clinic has found that patients are more likely to correctly use and stick with their PAP therapy if they receive sleep technologist coaching and follow-up. So if PAP seems like a struggle, the PAP Nap might be the right next step for you.