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Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

By Daniel More, MD, About.com

Created: March 20, 2009

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CPAP is an airway treatment of using slight positive pressure during inhalation to increase the volume of inspired air and to decrease the work of breathing.

Photo (c) A.D.A.M.
Definition: Continuous positive airway pressure, commonly referred to as CPAP, is a treatment that delivers pressurized air through the mouth or nose during sleep. It is most commonly used for people with obstructive sleep apnea to prevent the collapse of the airway during sleep.
Also Known As: CPAP
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