Description:

CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is a common treatment that uses mild air pressure to keep the airways open. CPAP typically is used by people who have breathing problems, such as obstructive sleep apnea. It includes a small machine that supplies a constant and steady air pressure, a hose, and a mask or nose piece.

Back in 1980, Dr. Colin Sullivan first tested the idea of positive pressure applied through the nasal airway in order to alleviate obstructed passageways. By 1985, Philips Respironics debuted the first suitable system in the U.S. Today, over a million Americans are being treated with CPAP.