If you’re looking for the gold standard for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is available at The Sleep Medicine Institute in Tampa, Florida. Sleep medicine specialist Lara Wittine, MD, FAASM, offers troubleshooting and mask fittings to ensure you get the best results from your CPAP. If you struggle with interrupted breathing and poor sleep quality, talk to The Sleep Medicine Institute team by calling the office or booking your appointment online today.
The primary goal of CPAP therapy is to keep you breathing consistently and avoid the hypopneas (shallow breathing) that occur in individuals with OSA. By keeping the airway open, CPAP therapy improves sleep quality, reduces daytime sleepiness, lowers blood pressure, and decreases the risk of cardiovascular events and other complications associated with untreated OSA.
CPAP therapy involves three main components: a CPAP machine that generates a constant airflow at a prescribed pressure, tubing to deliver air from the machine to the mask, and a CPAP mask that provides air into the airway.
A properly fitting CPAP mask is essential for making your CPAP therapy effective and comfortable. An ill-fitting mask can result in:
Dr. Wittine knows that you’re much less likely to follow your CPAP therapy if it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient, so she listens carefully to ensure a good fit, whether you use a nasal mask, nasal pillow mask, or full-face mask. Ensuring a proper seal without excessive tightness is key to successful long-term use.
Troubleshooting appointments are essential for optimizing CPAP therapy, particularly if you’re in the early stages of use or if new issues arise. Your appointment with Dr. Wittine may include:
Most modern CPAP machines record detailed usage data, including:
She can use this data to assess how well the therapy is working and identify areas to improve.
Dr. Wittine examines the mask fit and may try alternative sizes or styles. She also checks for signs of skin irritation or improper seal and provides tips for adjusting straps or repositioning the mask.
Common concerns include:
Accessible solutions like heated humidifiers, chin straps, nasal sprays, or switching mask types can help.
Troubleshooting visits are also a good opportunity to discuss proper cleaning, maintenance, and usage habits. Adapting to CPAP therapy can be a significant lifestyle change, and Dr. Wittine offers comprehensive care and support.
To schedule your next CPAP therapy appointment, call the office today or book conveniently online.