What is the primary purpose of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy?

The primary purpose of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is to keep airway passages open during sleep. This therapy is commonly used for individuals who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. By providing a continuous flow of air through a mask that the patient wears while sleeping, CPAP prevents the airway from collapsing or becoming obstructed, thus ensuring that breathing remains steady throughout the night.

Maintaining an open airway is critical because in sleep apnea, the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, leading to periods of disrupted breathing. The CPAP device effectively counteracts this problem, allowing for uninterrupted airflow, which improves oxygen delivery and reduces sleep disturbances.

While improving sleep quality is a benefit of CPAP therapy, the primary and essential function is to keep the airway open, which directly addresses the physiological issue associated with sleep apnea. This distinction is crucial because the device itself is not a cure for sleep apnea; rather, it is a treatment that provides symptomatic relief by maintaining proper airflow and preventing apnea episodes.