The difference between Activated Air and CPAP Machines
June 30th, 2008We are often asked about the differences between Activated Air and CPAP machines, so we thought we would post the answer here for others who have the same question.
In short, CPAP and Activated Air are very very different. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) works by providing a stream of compressed air (usually through a mask) to keep the airway open under pressure, which helps breathing to be unobstructed while sleeping. It is generally used by people who suffer from sleep apnea, a disorder in which a person stops breathing during the night. Humidifiers used with CPAP are primarily used to reduce dryness and skin irritation.
CPAP machines are only effective while the person is using the device because it is the pressure that is the effective component. Most people with sleep apnea need to use the CPAP every night and can struggle with the noise of the air and device, uncomfortable pressure from the mask, drying of the skin and nasal passages, etc.
Activated air works to reduce damage caused by oxidative stress, and to improve oxygen utilization. Oxidative stress has been linked with sleep apnea and there is suggestion that the increased oxidative stress contributes to inflammation which in turn could contribute to sleep apnea (Selmi et al., 2007). Although you can use activated air while you are sleeping, most individuals use it for 20-40 minutes during the day, at least 3 days a week.
Reference: Selmi, C., Montano, N., Furlan, R., Keen, C., & Gershwin, M. E. (2007). Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome. Experimental Biology and Medicine, 232, 1409-1413.