CPAP Therapy for Sleep Apnea in Austin, TX
Diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea — or suspect you might have it? CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is the most effective treatment for OSA, shown to significantly reduce apneas, improve daytime sleepiness, lower cardiovascular risk, and dramatically improve quality of life. Capital ENT helps patients get properly diagnosed and successfully started on therapy at 4 Central Texas locations.
What CPAP Does — and Why It Works
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles of the upper airway relax during sleep, allowing the throat to collapse and block breathing. These apneas — which can occur dozens or hundreds of times per night — fragment sleep, deprive the body of oxygen, and place significant stress on the cardiovascular system.
CPAP therapy works by delivering a gentle, continuous stream of pressurized air through a mask worn during sleep, which acts as a pneumatic splint to keep the upper airway open. When used consistently, CPAP can substantially reduce apneas and help restore normal sleep architecture — leading to improved energy, concentration, mood, and long-term health outcomes.
- Most effective nonsurgical treatment for moderate-to-severe OSA
- Significantly reduces apneas and oxygen desaturations
- Reduces cardiovascular risk associated with untreated OSA
- Auto-CPAP (APAP) and BiPAP options for different needs
- Covered by most insurance plans when medically prescribed
Symptoms That May Indicate Sleep Apnea
Loud Snoring & Witnessed Apneas
Loud, habitual snoring — especially when accompanied by witnessed episodes of stopped breathing or gasping reported by a sleeping partner — is the classic presentation of obstructive sleep apnea. These gasping arousals occur as the brain detects falling oxygen levels and briefly awakens the sleeper to restore breathing. The sleeper typically has no memory of these events but wakes unrefreshed despite adequate time in bed.
Request EvaluationExcessive Daytime Sleepiness
Fragmented sleep from repeated apneas prevents the restorative slow-wave and REM sleep that the body needs. Patients with untreated OSA often feel profoundly fatigued despite 7–8 hours of sleep, fall asleep while watching TV or reading, struggle to concentrate, and may even doze off while driving. Daytime sleepiness from OSA is associated with increased accident risk and significantly reduced productivity and quality of life.
Request EvaluationCardiovascular & Metabolic Effects
Untreated obstructive sleep apnea is a significant independent risk factor for hypertension, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The repeated cycles of hypoxia (low oxygen) and arousal activate the sympathetic nervous system and cause systemic inflammation. Consistent CPAP use has been shown to reduce blood pressure, improve glucose control, and lower cardiovascular event risk in patients with OSA.
Request EvaluationGetting Started With CPAP at Capital ENT
The pathway to CPAP starts with a sleep study — either at home (our convenient at-home sleep testing service) or in a lab. Once OSA is confirmed and severity assessed, your ENT provider will prescribe an appropriate CPAP pressure and device type (CPAP, Auto-CPAP, or BiPAP).
We work with trusted DME (durable medical equipment) providers to ensure you receive the right device and mask fitting. Follow-up appointments allow us to review your compliance data and adjust therapy as needed to ensure you're getting maximum benefit.
Schedule a Sleep ConsultationCPAP, APAP, and BiPAP — What's the Difference?
Auto-CPAP (APAP) is now the most commonly prescribed device — it automatically adjusts pressure breath-by-breath based on detected airway resistance, which most patients find more comfortable than a fixed setting. Standard CPAP delivers a single fixed pressure all night and remains appropriate for many patients. BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) provides different pressures on inhalation and exhalation — often preferred for patients who feel uncomfortable exhaling against continuous pressure, or those with certain respiratory conditions.
Your ENT provider will review your sleep study results and recommend the most appropriate device type. Modern PAP machines are quieter, smaller, and more comfortable than previous generations, with heated humidifiers that reduce nasal dryness and improve comfort.
- APAP: auto-adjusting pressure, most commonly prescribed today
- CPAP: fixed pressure, proven efficacy, appropriate for many patients
- BiPAP: different inhale/exhale pressures, for complex cases
- Modern machines with heated humidifiers for comfort
Your CPAP Journey at Capital ENT
Sleep Study First
CPAP requires a sleep study to diagnose OSA and determine severity. We offer convenient at-home sleep testing, and can also coordinate in-lab polysomnography when needed.
At-Home or In-LabRight Device & Mask
Mask fit is crucial for CPAP success. We work with experienced DME providers to ensure you get the right device type and a mask that fits your face anatomy comfortably.
Proper FittingCompliance Follow-Up
Modern CPAP machines track usage data. We review your compliance reports at follow-up visits to assess therapy effectiveness and adjust pressure or settings if needed.
Data-Driven Care4 Central Texas Locations
Sleep consultations available at all four Capital ENT offices — Austin, Lakeway, Marble Falls, and Dripping Springs.
Austin · Lakeway · Marble Falls · Dripping SpringsCPAP Therapy FAQ
Many patients notice improved energy and reduced daytime sleepiness within the first few nights of effective CPAP use. Full adaptation and maximum benefit typically occur over 2–4 weeks as your body readjusts to restorative sleep. Patients who struggled with excessive daytime sleepiness often describe feeling like a different person after starting consistent therapy.
CPAP intolerance is common, but most issues are addressable. Mask leaks, pressure discomfort, nasal dryness, and claustrophobia can often be resolved by trying different mask styles, adjusting pressure settings, adding a heated humidifier, or switching to an APAP or BiPAP device. For patients who genuinely cannot tolerate PAP therapy, alternatives include oral appliance therapy, surgical treatment of nasal obstruction, and — for appropriate candidates — upper airway surgery.
CPAP is covered by most major insurance plans — including Medicare — when prescribed based on a sleep study that meets diagnostic criteria for OSA. Insurance typically covers the device rental and supplies. Most plans require documented compliance (using the machine at least 4 hours per night on 70% of nights in a 30-day period) to continue coverage. Our team will help navigate the insurance process.
CPAP is the most effective treatment, but alternatives exist for some patients. Oral appliance therapy (mandibular advancement device) is effective for mild-to-moderate OSA and some patients prefer it over CPAP. Surgical options — including nasal surgery to improve airflow, palatal procedures, or upper airway stimulation (Inspire) — may be appropriate for selected patients. Weight loss can reduce OSA severity significantly in overweight patients. Your ENT will discuss all options based on your sleep study results and anatomy.
Take Control of Your Sleep Apnea
Our ENT sleep medicine specialists will evaluate your symptoms, order the appropriate sleep testing, and guide you through effective treatment. Same-day and next-day consultations often available.