OptiPillows Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP) Mask

What exactly is EPAP?

EPAP is an abbreviation for Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure. Clinical trials have demonstrated that EPAP devices are safe and effective for treating snoring and mild to moderate sleep apnea.

What exactly is the Optipillows EPAP Mask?

The Optipillows EPAP Mask is a nasal pillow mask with an EPAP device attached. Although it resembles a nasal cushion CPAP mask, it is not CPAP machine dependent. A nasal mask called the Optipillows EPAP Mask produces positive pressure when you exhale.

How do OptiPillows function?

With the OptiPillows EPAP Mask, you can breathe in easily and with little difficulty, but when you breathe out, the air is forced through a small side aperture, creating back pressure in your mouth and nose that keeps your upper airway from collapsing. To vary the pressure for greater comfort, the side opening's size can be changed. Close the side aperture of the mask only when you feel comfortable and start to fall asleep as usual after using the mask.

What distinguishes EPAP from CPAP?

As the name implies, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is applied throughout the breathing cycle. The OptiPillows EPAP mask, on the other hand, only delivers positive pressure during the expiratory part of the breathing cycle.

Can Optipillows take the place of my CPAP machine?

The Optipillows EPAP mask is designed to alleviate snoring. It will not replace your CPAP if you have severe obstructive sleep apnea. However, some CPAP users choose not to bring their CPAP with them when travelling. In such instances, the Optipillows EPAP mask is an additional choice.

How much pressure is produced?

Expiration pressure may be regulated by turning the sleeve to close or open the side resistance. It generates 1 to 3 cmH2O of pressure with the side resistance fully open. It generates 3 to 7 cmH2O of pressure with the side resistance 50% closed. It creates 8 to 14 cmH2O of pressure with the side resistance 75% closed. The EPAP mask is useful for people who have minor sleep disturbed breathing, such as snoring. It does not effective for persons with central sleep apnea who require a complete face mask or a BIPAP machine. The mouth must be closed when wearing the EPAP mask for the mask to work.