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The Use of CPAP Machines for Coronavirus Treatment
While the coronavirus continues to affect the US and the world, doctors are looking at options other than ventilators to help COVID-19 patients recover.
CPAP machines typically used for managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are proving a less invasive alternative for treating some coronavirus cases.
Doctors Adapting CPAP Machines for Non-Invasive Breathing Assistance
Some medics working on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic have been able to reduce mortality rates and improve recovery prospects by modifying CPAP machines for breathing. CPAP machines provide breathing assistance without intubation. During the shortage of ventilators, doctors discovered that modified CPAP machines could be used to treat COVID-19 patients.
While a breathing tube may be needed for some patients, the application of a CPAP mask offers an alternative that is less intrusive and more comfortable for patients with milder symptoms and a more natural resolution for healthcare workers.
CPAP Machines as an Option for Non-Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients
More research reveals the benefits of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in reducing the likelihood of hospitalization for coronavirus, which reduces the burden for hospitals experiencing a shortage of available beds.
CPAP is also minimizing the need for ventilators for some COVID-19 patients who have been hospitalized, which allows those essential ventilators to be made more accessible for more serious coronaviruses cases. CPAP devices have been used in hospitals in China and Italy to treat coronavirus infections, with reports indicating that roughly half of such patients have evaded the need for ventilators.
Sleep Apnea Patients Currently Using CPAP Machines
Most doctors advise continuing their therapy as prescribed for patients currently using CPAP machines to manage their sleep apnea. Now, there is no evidence that sleep apnea patients are at higher risk for coronavirus.
If you have been diagnosed with coronavirus and are using a CPAP machine, you should speak to your doctor about continuing therapy with the infection and continue following the general guidelines for coronavirus infection.
Get Answers from Our CPAP Experts
If you have any concerns or questions about your CPAP equipment, please reach out to our experts for answers and solutions. BestCPAPCleaner is continually monitoring ongoing developments related to this coronavirus disease.