CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is the standard treatment for OSA.  For most people, it should be the first line treatment for their OSA. 

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The treatment consists of a small pump, air hose and facial/nasal mask that delivers gentle pressure to prevent the throat from collapsing.  The pressure maybe fixed, two different pressures, or continuously variable. 

Modern CPAP has come a long way from what used to be noisy, uncomfortable contraptions to much more quieter, smaller, better fitting and more comfortable devices.

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Pros

There are very notable advantages to CPAP therapy for OSA including

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• Safe

• Highly Effective

• When able to be used daily, it has the best track record of providing excellent improvement of many of the problems associated with untreated OSA

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Cons

The main disadvantage is that some people cannot tolerate CPAP as they find it uncomfortable to use.   It's become less of a problem with improvements in CPAP technology but it still remains a problem.  Other disadvantages can include

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• Intolerance/discomfort

• Cumbersome

• Requires care and maintenance of the equipment

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