If you suffer from sleep apnea, you don't need to fear the dreaded CPAP machine. CPAP, an acronym for continuous positive airway pressure, is a form of therapy that delivers pressurized air and prevents the apnea from occurring. When you consider all of the other available options, including surgeries that can cause swelling and end up killing you far before the side effects of the disorder itself will, a CPAP machine isn't such a bad choice. There are lots of benefits to this particular treatment of sleep apnea, including the fact that you never have to go under the knife, you don't have to try experimental neurological stimulation and you don't have to rely on expensive prescription drugs. Really, it's a win win situation!

Some people are hesitant to sleep with a CPAP machine attached to them because they look awkward and uncomfortable. In fact, many CPAP masks are uncomfortable. The trick to finding a good one is to do some research and find a style and fit that works for you. Sure, you might look like an alien with the headgear strapped around your face, but at least you'll be sleeping safely and soundly. Depending on whether or not you breath through your mouth or nose, you can find CPAP masks that can work by only covering your nose. People who breathe through their mouth, however, don't have the luxury of that option and have to pick a design that covers both the nose and mouth.

The CPAP machine will only work if it is fitted properly. If there isn't a good seal between the mask and the face, you'll be attached to a CPAP machine for nothing. The way to get a good seal is to ensure that the straps of the mask aren't too loose or too tight. When the mask is too loose, air can seep in and out. When the straps are too tight, the mask can be uncomfortable to wear and the seal can break.