We’re fluent in healthcare. Now you can be too.

Healthcare shouldn’t be this complicated. Learn the terms that matter to make informed decisions about your health.

Glossary
Positive Airway Pressure Therapy

What Is Positive Airway Pressure Therapy?

Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy uses air pressure to keep airways open during sleep, primarily treating sleep apnea and other breathing disorders. Devices like CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP deliver pressurized air through masks to prevent airway collapse and improve oxygenation.

Why is PAP therapy important?

  • Sleep quality: Eliminates breathing interruptions for restful sleep.
  • Health protection: Reduces risks of heart disease and stroke.
  • Daytime function: Improves alertness and cognitive performance.

Types of PAP therapy

  • CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) for obstructive sleep apnea.
  • BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) for complex breathing disorders.
  • APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) with self-adjusting pressure.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help coordinate sleep studies, obtain PAP equipment, and navigate insurance coverage for devices and supplies. They can assist with mask fitting issues, troubleshoot compliance challenges, and ensure proper follow-up with sleep specialists.