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What is CPAP?

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Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the use of continuous positive pressure to maintain a continuous level of positive airway pressure in a spontaneously breathing patient. It is functionally similar to positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), except that PEEP is an applied pressure against exhalation and CPAP is a pressure applied by a constant flow. [ clarification needed ] The ventilator does not cycle during CPAP, no additional pressure above the level of C PAP is provided, and patients must initiate all of their breaths. Nasal C PAP is frequently used in infants [ citation needed ] , though its use is controversial [ citation needed ] . Studies have shown nasal CPAP reduces ventilator time but an increased occurrence of pneumothorax was also prevalent. [1] As a treatment or therapy, CPAP uses mild air pressure to keep an airway open. CPAP typically is used for people who have breathing problems, such as sleep apnea. CPAP also may be used to treat preterm infan