Normally when a person sleeps, the airway remains open, and air can pass from the nose and mouth to the lungs. In a person with sleep apnea, parts of the throat and mouth drop into the airway and block off the flow of air. This can cause loud snoring and interrupt breathing for short periods.
Graphic 75747 Version 5.0
View Originalfigure 1Airway in a person with sleep apnea
Normally when a person sleeps, the airway remains open, and air can pass from the nose and mouth to the lungs. In a person with sleep apnea, parts of the throat and mouth drop into the airway and block off the flow of air. This can cause loud snoring and interrupt breathing for short periods.
Graphic 75747 Version 5.0
View OriginalContinuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for sleep apnea
The CPAP mask gently blows air into your nose while you sleep. It puts just enough pressure on your airway to keep it from closing. The mask in this picture fits over just the nose. Other CPAP devices have masks that fit over the nose and mouth.
Graphic 65324 Version 5.0
View Originalfigure 2Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for sleep apnea
The CPAP mask gently blows air into your nose while you sleep. It puts just enough pressure on your airway to keep it from closing. The mask in this picture fits over just the nose. Other CPAP devices have masks that fit over the nose and mouth.
Graphic 65324 Version 5.0
View Original