DeVilbiss Healthcare IntelliPAP DV5 Series Manual page 6

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potentially resulting in memory loss, impotence, hypertension, coronary disease, strokes,
and heart attacks. Recent studies indicate that OSA has the same risk factor for heart
disease as smoking, high cholesterol and alcohol, and estimate that as many as 38,000
people a year die from the effects of OSA.
Clearly, OSA is a serious medical condition that requires attention and treatment.
How CPAP Therapy Works
There are several treatments for OSA including surgery and CPAP therapy. However, CPAP
therapy has proven very effective for most patients. CPAP stands for "continuous positive
airway pressure" which is exactly what the DeVilbiss IntelliPAP device delivers to your
upper airway, acting as an "air splint" to keep the passage open while you sleep.
This reduces or eliminates the obstruction, allowing you to enjoy the deep, refreshing,
uninterrupted sleep you need. More importantly, your body will get the rest and oxygen it
needs with more continuous, uninterrupted sleep – helping you avoid some of the serious
health risks associated with OSA. And the IntelliPAP is designed to provide this therapy to
you quietly and comfortably so that you can sleep through the night without distraction.
Acclimating To Your Therapy
Naturally anything new – including CPAP therapy – takes some getting used to. Having your
mouth or nose (or both) covered by a mask may make you feel anxious or claustrophobic.
Feeling the rush of air from your IntelliPAP may cause discomfort or concern. But don't
worry – every successful, long-term CPAP user began where you are today with the same
reactions and concerns, and overcame them to enjoy the full benefits of their therapy.
Here are some steps to help you gradually ease into your therapy and overcome your
anxieties:
1. Try attaching the mask to the CPAP unit, and switching the unit "On." Practice
breathing through the mask for one hour while watching television, reading, or
performing some other sitting activity.
2. If you nap, use the CPAP during this time.
3. Use CPAP at least during the first initial 3-4 hours of nighttime sleep.
4. Use CPAP through an entire night of sleep.
Advance through the above steps one step at a time and progress to the next step as soon
as you can carry out the current step without anxiety.
Benefits Of Your Therapy
As a DeVilbiss IntelliPAP user, you are on your way to living a happier, healthier life – a life
free from the sleep disruptions and health risks associated with OSA. After you become
acclimated to CPAP therapy, you may be surprised at how much better you feel, both
physically and emotionally. CPAP therapy may give you the opportunity to finally experience
the deep, restful sleep you've been missing out on. Many patients find they have more
energy, better judgment, and improved concentration during the day. With effective therapy
you'll be less stressed, less irritable and more like your old self again, with a healthy, positive
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