CPAP treatment stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. The most common indication for it is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a type of breathing disorder that occurs during sleep. It occurs when the soft tissues in the human airway around the throat collapse as a result of relaxation during sleep. Left untreated, it can contribute to daytime sleepiness at least and at worst, it can cause hypertension, heart failure, stroke, diabetes and, ultimately, death.

The device consists of a Positive Airway Pressure machine (PAP) to provide airflow, a hose to connect the airflow generator to the interface and the interface itself. This can be a mask, nasal pillows or a special mouthpiece. Sometimes an in-line humidifier is added to the apparatus. Positive pressure created by the airflow is adjusted to maintain the airway in the open position. It is important for the user and the technician to work together as a team to obtain the optimum system for the individual and encourage compliance.

Treatment does have some side effects. Occasionally it causes skin irritation. It may also cause a stuffy nose or headache. If not properly adjusted, the apparatus can cause stomach bloating and discomfort. If the mask is not adjusted properly, it is not unknown for the user to slip it off unconsciously during sleep.

Various optional features can be added to make the system more comfortable for the patient and improve compliance. For instance, heated water can be added via a humidifier to eliminate the effects of dryness caused by compressed air. A passive humidifier is another option. It is less effective than the heated version but it does relieve dryness. Cloth-based mask covers may be used to improve the seal and reduce skin problems. A rheostat to control the pressure may be used to gradually increase air pressure as the user goes to sleep.

Exhalation pressure relief makes it easier to breathe out against the airflow. Flexible chin straps may be attached to help the user keep from breathing through their mouth, another source of dryness and irritation. Data logging may be added to measure patient compliance.

PAP ventilation may also be used in intensive care units for people with who are extremely ill with respiratory failure. It is also sometimes used on neonatal units to help premature infants with their breathing. Patients with neuromuscular disease may also benefit from treatment. In some patients, it can eliminate the need for tracheal intubation, a risky procedure requiring a high level of special training.

The treatment was invented at the University of California in San Francisco by a team of neonatologists. A modification of the system was developed by a group of physicians in Australia.

There are other indications for positive airway pressure. These include heart failure and chronic lung diseases. It is sometimes used in people with certain types of pneumonia or reduced oxygen saturation. It may also be used in people who have a serious asthma attack. It is contraindicated for those with a compromised airway or with impaired consciousness.

People living in Finland and Sweden already know it – sauna therapy is a wonderful way to reduce anxiety and stress, while promoting relaxation, contentment and peace of mind. However, saunas and steam-baths are much more than just leisure products. Other health benefits of using sauna include muscle relaxation, detoxification and glowing healthy skin.

The tradition of sauna stems from the centuries old ritual of cleansing the body and the soul. Routines vary, but the basic idea is simple: sitting in the hot room, which is typically warmed to 180+ degrees Fahrenheit. After 10-20 minutes – just when the heat becomes uncomfortable – it is customary to jump into a lake or swimming pool or to take a shower. After a short rest one goes back to the hot room and begins the cycle again, according to their personal preference.

Sauna and its health benefits
Sauna works on the principle of generating abundant sweat to detoxify the body and relax the mind. Regular sauna use can bring a number of health advantages – some of them are listed below:

* Glowing healthy skin – blood flow to the skin increases during a sauna session. With more essential nutrients being available to subcutaneous and surface tissue, the quality of the skin gradually improves.

* Detoxification – the heat releases poisons and heavy metals beneath the skin so that they can be purged through respiration. In this day and age most people are exposed to toxins every day. Toxic chemicals are abundantly present in our food and environment, so it seems reasonable to aid the detoxification process with the regular use of sauna.

* Hyperthermia – exposure to the high heat creates an artificial fever state. Fever stimulates the body’s natural healing process. As a result, your immune system will produce greater numbers of disease fighting white blood cells and antibodies to eliminate viruses and other pathogens.

Furthermore, sauna therapy relaxes muscles and inhibits sympathetic nervous activity. Regular sauna users say that a “good sweat” provides and opportunity to indulge in positive thoughts and escape from everyday troubles.

With that said, there are several safety precautions that you should always follow:

* Do not stay in the hot room for more than 30 minutes

* Allow adequate time for rest after leaving the sauna

* Drink sufficient amount of water to replenish lost fluids and minerals

* Be sure to remove contact lenses before entering sauna

* Drinking alcohol in the sauna is not recommended

* Pregnant women should avoid sauna and steam-baths altogether

If you are in reasonable health, the benefits of sauna and steam-baths far outweigh any hazards. Follow the aforementioned guidelines and include sauna as part of your lifestyle. You’ll experience a level of renewal that is hard to surpass.