Question

Which of the following statements about the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is correct?

• A. CPAP increases throat air pressure during sleep
• B. CPAP prevents airway collapse only when used with an oral appliance
• C. CPAP is primarily used for OSA cases requiring invasive treatment
• D. CPAP is not effective in severe cases of OSA

Hint:

CPAP acts as a pneumatic splint — it keeps the airway open by maintaining continuous positive pressure.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To determine which statement about the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is correct, let's analyze each option:

1. Option 1: CPAP increases throat air pressure during sleep.
   • This statement is true. CPAP therapy works by delivering a continuous stream of air through a mask, increasing the air pressure in the throat. This higher pressure prevents the airway from collapsing during sleep, which is a key characteristic of OSA.
2. Option 2: CPAP prevents airway collapse only when used with an oral appliance.
   • This statement is incorrect. CPAP alone is designed to prevent airway collapse and does not require the use of an oral appliance. Combined therapy can be beneficial for some patients, but CPAP is independently effective.
3. Option 3: CPAP is primarily used for OSA cases requiring invasive treatment.
   • This statement is incorrect. CPAP is a non-invasive treatment method, and it is often the first line of treatment for OSA. Invasive treatments are typically considered if CPAP is not effective or tolerated.
4. Option 4: CPAP is not effective in severe cases of OSA.
   • This statement is incorrect. CPAP is particularly effective for severe cases of OSA, as it provides the necessary airway pressure to maintain patency during sleep regardless of the severity.

On evaluating each option, Option 1, "CPAP increases throat air pressure during sleep," is the correct statement about CPAP usage in OSA.