Roughly 25% of adults suffer from sleep apnea. The most common treatment for sleep apnea is PAP therapy (positive airway pressure therapy) which delivers air through a mask to help steady breathing while asleep. The CPAP machine is the most common, offering consistent airflow. A BiPAP machine works the same but offers different air pressure levels for inhalation and exhalation. These machines are generally used to treat obstructive sleep apnea.
When is ASV Therapy Used?
ASV therapy is used to treat central sleep apnea. Both central and obstructive sleep apnea involves irregular breathing patterns during sleep, but their causes are unrelated. While obstructive sleep apnea happens because of a blockage in the airway, central sleep apnea occurs when the brain and the muscles that control breathing do not correlate properly.
The failure of the brain to trigger the respiratory muscles, also known as an apneic event, is when an ASV machine is used. This therapy often helps those suffering from central sleep apnea resolve the issue over time. The machine trains the body to breathe correctly without forcing the airflow when it isn’t necessary, which in turn allows your body to pick the pace and learn from its mistakes. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, but occasionally this issue can correct itself with treatment.
ASV vs. PAP Machines
ASV machines must be adjusted and modified for the individual. They differ from PAP machines because they monitor breathing while the person sleeps, customizing the air pressure delivered to help steady their breathing. By contrast, CPAP and BiPAP machines provide a consistent, generic airflow.
What is an ASV Machine?
ASV machines include the machine, the mask, and the hose that connects the two. There are also different styles of masks, such as mouth and nose coverings or just the nose. While the machine monitors throughout the night, the machine responds when breathing slows, pushing air flow with enough pressure to regain a steady breathing pattern. Once the target pattern is reached, the machine’s pressure automatically lowers, often still providing a continuous flow, but with much less force, to maintain consistent and repetitive breathing.
If CPAP is uncomfortable for you, or your sleep apnea doesn’t respond well to the treatment, ASV therapy might be a good alternative. In addition, the flexibility in air pressure can be more soothing to sleep with instead of the steady airflow given by the other machines.
Parkway Sleep Health Center
Are you having difficulty getting a good night’s sleep? Do you wake up tired, or does your partner complain about you snoring? You could have a sleep disorder, and Parkway Sleep Health Center can help. After an evaluation, our expert team can recommend a treatment for sleep apnea, insomnia, snoring, or other sleep-related disorder. Contact us today at 919-439-3463 and schedule an appointment.
