Comparing epap vs. cpap is crucial to understand various similarities and differences. CPAP is short for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, while EPAP stands for Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure. Individuals that have struggled with sleep apnea are likely to have encountered both terms before as they are among the most used techniques used to tackle the condition today. Accordingly, I intend to review these two products to determine which one offers better sleeper solutions, especially with tackling sleep apnea. Firstly, CPAP is the more popular of the two products when it comes to treating and managing sleep apnea. However, before we start spiraling, let’s get into the finer details of both devices and see whether this popularity is worthwhile, or whether EPAP devices are more efficient.
For epap vs. cpap reviews, I will list a few pointers that should act to guide us throughout the post, namely;
- Outstanding features
- Ease of use
- Effectiveness
- Fit and comfort
- Durability and maintenance
- Price
- Customer feedback
In this comprehensive review, I will leave no stone unturned. Users and potential users of these two products have the information they need to make an unbiased decision. Both products have proven effective, and my interest here is to guide users to know which product is most suitable.
Well, here we go;
Product Review Section
Outstanding features
With the help of a power outlet, CPAP is used to clear obstructive sleep apnea, hindrances in the airway, and prevent the throat from collapsing. There are many reasons why sleep difficulties occur, and the CPAP manufacturers have made sure that the functionality of the device tackles most of these issues. The CPAP is a small compressor meant to draw temperature, air, and pressure to deliver the ideal pressure to clear the obstruction. It contains a disposable filter, a hose, and a mask to function. The device works to improve the quality of sleep and the user’s general health and wellbeing.
EPAP is a small portable device that does not need electricity to perform its functions. EPAP is inserted into sleepers’ nostrils to manage snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. The product has a patch that holds two small plugs over each nostril with mild adhesive glue. Each nasal plug has a tiny hole that creates enough back pressure to keep the airways open all night. EPAP is a simple and effective device that has become a safe treatment option for patients that do not tolerate bulky or intrusive devices.
Ease of use
Sleepers should learn how to assemble the device from a sleep technologist. Note that it can be a time-consuming and cumbersome activity for some users due to its complicated process. A CPAP device comes as a trinity. The three parts assembled to make a finished product are a motor, the tube that connects the machine and the mask, and the face mask covering the nose or both the nose and mouth. When a sleeper gets a CPAP prescription, they should work with their sleep technologists to customize the settings best suited to them.
An EPAP device is easy to use because most EPAP brands use the adhesive seal to stick on the sleeper’s nose before they sleep. All the user needs is the product and a mirror. Provent, an EPAP device, looks like two small band-aids with a hole at the center. An individual should stick one product on each nose and adjust it to make sure that it does not leak air through its sides. BongoRX, one of the most advanced EPAP products, is made of two silicone mini-tubes that should fit inside the user’s nostrils.
EPAP is simpler to set-up and use compared to the CPAP machine.
Effectiveness
Apart from sleep disturbances, sleep apnea causes long-term health complications like heart diseases, strokes, and increasing blood pressure. Sleepers with severe sleep apnea are g a prescription of CPAP to manage the issue. Through its design, the CPAP works to deliver the ideal amount of pressure to clear any obstructions. The device has a disposal filter that works to sieve out any impurities. The device also has built-in humidifiers that make it suitable for people living in dry environments and fitted masks to suit a particular user’s size better. All these features help keep the airways open while the user is asleep, eliminates snoring, and improves sleep quality.
For sleepers who suffer from snoring and obstructive sleep apnea throughout the night, this product is for you. The device works by creating and containing pressure when the user exhales and keeping the airways open until the next airways. Each nasal plug has a tiny hole that creates enough back pressure to keep the airways open all night. Though the product is best suited for mild to medium sleep apnea, most users have found the device useful.
Both CPAP and EPAP are both very top-tier in their functionality. EPAP product best suited to your needs for users with mild sleep apnea or those travelers who want a discrete product. CPAP will work best for those with severe sleep apnea, mouth breathers that snore, and those with sinuses.
Fit and comfort
The mask linked to the hose on one side can be uncomfortable at first, but most users eventually adjust. The CPAP mask has had some negative reviews because some users found it ill-fitting and can sometimes cause skin irritation. For maximum comfort, the user should choose a CPAP mask that fits. Those who get skin irritations can apply soothing oils on the skin’s surface to avoid skin dryness.
Nasal patches, nasal strips, and nasal valves found on various EPAP products are comfortable. Products such as BongoRX come with a starter kit that includes all sizes to help the user find the best-suited size for their nostrils. BongoRX comes with an extra headgear to support active sleepers. The headgear’s make ensures that it does not create any tension, and a user can use it for the support they may need through the night.
Durability and maintenance
When you experience severe sleep apnea, you want a device that will last as long as possible. I see you, and I am here to tell you that CPAP is the product you need. When properly maintained, CPAP can last as long as a decade, depending on the quality or the brand. One key to unlocking such longevity is to ensure you pick the device apart to provide a thorough cleaning. There is a mask, a hose, and a disposable filter that must be cleaned and dried before being reassembled ahead of the device’s next use.
Provent and Theravents are disposable EPAP products. Conversely, Bongo RX can last for three months when well maintained.
Concerning product durability, CPAP is the better option. A sleeper who suffers from sleep apnea can consider EPAP options for short-term use like traveling or on vacations.
Price
One complete set of a CPAP device retails between $200 to $3000 depending on the manufacturer’s quality. Users can expect added technological features and expanded functionality with the higher-priced options.
Disposable EPAP products come in a pack of 30-20 pieces retailing for approximately $2 per unit. Reusable BongoRx comes in an all-sized starter pack containing four options of the device that retails for $199.
Though CPAP is expensive, it’s functionality and durability wins. EPAP may be cheaper, but the nasal device is only beneficial for a short while and can only treat “vanilla” sleep apnea.
Customer reviews on epap vs. cpap
Because of its complex make, most of its users complain about how frustrating it can be to assemble a CPAP device. Some users complain about how the device leaves the mouth dry. Such snorers should combine CPAP with their preferred humidifier to curb dry mouth. In the long- term, CPAP has helped many people suffering from sleep apnea get sound sleep night after night.
On the other hand, some sleepers have complained that EPAP did not work for them. Some found it hard to breathe with the device stuck in their nose. Some potential users shy away from the product because of the misguided notion that they may fall off while asleep. EPAP advanced technology in the silicone device called BongoRX has been the solution to some of EPAP’S critics.
The technology is durable, the material is soft silicone, and the device works for users with allergies, nasal congestion, and sinus infections. The Zero-tension headgear has drawn users to the product because now active sleepers can rest knowing the device is in place.
Like every product in the market, these two products have both positive and negative reviews. In reality, one product cannot cater to everyone. Snorers and sleepers that suffer from sleep apnea have to test which products suit them best.
Conclusion
According to our observation, each devices’ manufacturer is determined to meet customer satisfaction; Mainly because both products are beneficial in their way. CPAP may be more expensive and have more complex features, but it treats more complex issues in its defense. It is better to spend extra money on a pricey product that prevents even more expensive life-threatening medical conditions. With the EPAP technology, users now have a discrete portable device that treats sleep apnea. They need not worry about carrying their bulky machines when they travel. With these two products, everybody is a winner.
