Definition - What does Built-in Humidifier mean?
A built-in humidifier, within the context of sleep apnea, is a subunit chamber of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine that is filled with water delivering a steady stream of moistened air to the lungs via passover or heated humidification process. CPAP devices equipped with built-in humidifiers allows users to regulate moisture content of the airflow based on ambient room temperature levels (passover) and/or adjustable warmth sensation (heated) to accommodate comfortable breathing. Regular cleaning and maintenance of a built-in humidifier is essential to prevent bacteria from developing in the chamber, hoses/tubing, and/or mask.
SureHire explains Built-in Humidifier
The absence of humidified air induces marked dryness in the membrane lining of the nasal cavities and soft tissue of the throat. A number of subsequent physical disturbances can occur including coughing fits, inflammation, soreness, headaches, restlessness, halitosis (bad breath), and sinus infections. In order to try to reduce patients not using CPAP machines, humidifiers are installed.
Individuals can use CPAP machines with built-in humidifiers to generate clean, warm air to maintain cyclical airflow pressure to and from the lungs. Patients who use the built-in humidifier component can mitigate discomfort from inhaling cold, dry air, in particular during the winter season, and/or in harsh climates. Patients want to ensure to use distilled water to avoid corroding mechanical parts coupled with condensation in attachments (i.e. hose/tubing, mask) preferably draining surplus water back down into the built-in humidifier.
For individuals who suffer from sleep disorders, for instance obstructive sleep apnea, failure to use a prescribed CPAP machine can lead to detrimental health conditions including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Built-in humidifiers can improve quality of sleep, decreasing symptoms associated with sleep apnea that can induce disruptive sleep habits. Individuals are more susceptible to encountering workplace accidents that can result in serious injuries.
