Dangers of Using a CPAP Machine
Sleep Apnea Machines are Not Dangerous as Long as They are Maintained and Set Up Correctly

The question that many apnea patients ask is, are CPAP machines dangerous?  While the risks are few, as with any electronic equipment, there are some dangers of using a CPAP machine.  Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machines are used in the treatment of sleep apnea.  The CPAP forces air into the airway to clear breathing obstructions that are associated with apnea while the patient sleeps.  This allows patients to sleep without disruption, but with air being forced through the body by artificial means while the patient is sleeping it is questioned, is this dangerous?  The overall answer is no it is not dangerous.  CPAP use is not dangerous as long as the machine is working properly and certain safety precautions are taken.  The dangers of using a CPAP are usually related to misuse.  Misuse of any electronic device can be dangerous.

One of the dangers that an apnea patient may experience is that the air pressure is too great.  If the air pressure is too great it can create problems.  Too much pressure of air through the airway can cause, in extreme cases, hemorrhaging and stroke.  In minor cases, the patient may experience headaches that are not relieved by changing the apparatus used with the device.  If the sleep apnea patient begins having headaches after using the device, he or she should see a doctor to check out the problem.  However, the patient should also have the CPAP machine examined and the output should be checked to ensure that the air pressure is not too forceful.

Another of the dangers of the CPAP is not necessarily associated with the patient using it, but with how the patient handles the machine.  The CPAP is an electronic device and, as with any other electronic device, there are certain dangers involved with its use.  The CPAP should not be used if it is wet and it definitely not be submersed in water.  Placing any electronic equipment in water is dangerous, but because the patient is using this machine on a regular basis, the danger is compounded because there is a danger of electrical shock.

Any danger that may stem from CPAP use can be averted with regular maintenance by a professional electronic expert and prudent observance of anything out of the ordinary that may arise during or after use.  The CPAP is a highly affective way of treating sleep apnea disorder therefore, all efforts should be made to correct any problems should they arise.

See Also: Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome

About The Author:
Kerri Iamele is a successful author and regular contributor to sleep-disorders-help.com.