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Understanding CPAP

The gold standard for sleep apnea.

Continuous positive airway pressure therapy keeps your airway open while you sleep. Learn how it works, who it's for, and how to get started with confidence.

  • #1 prescribed treatment for moderate-to-severe OSA
  • Eliminates up to 80% of apnea events with consistent use
  • Requires a prescription based on a sleep test
CPAP machine and setup
How CPAP therapy works — airway diagram

How It Works

How CPAP keeps your airway open

01

Gentle air pressure, all night

CPAP delivers a continuous stream of pressurized air through a mask, keeping your airway open and preventing the breathing pauses caused by obstructive sleep apnea.

02

Three parts, one system

A bedside machine generates the air, a tube delivers it, and a fitted mask seals comfortably over your nose or face. That's all there is to it.

03

Comfort makes the difference

When your mask fits properly and pressure is dialed in, CPAP becomes something you barely notice. Getting there is what Somni helps with.

Device Types

Four types of PAP devices

Your doctor will recommend the type that fits your diagnosis and comfort needs.

Fixed pressure

Delivers one consistent airflow pressure set by your doctor. The standard and most widely used device for treating obstructive sleep apnea.

Auto-adjusting

Automatically changes pressure throughout the night based on your sleep position and breathing. Adapts to you in real time.

Two pressures

Uses a higher pressure when you inhale and a lower one when you exhale. Ideal for people who struggle with steady pressure on exhale.

Portable

Offers many of the same benefits as traditional devices in a compact form — weighing less than a pound and fitting in your hand.

Mask Fit

Your mask matters

The right mask is the difference between tolerating CPAP and forgetting you're wearing it.

AirFit F40 CPAP mask
Full face maskMinimalistSoft cushionUnder-the-nose fit

AirFit F40

A minimal full face option designed for a softer feel, less bulk, and a more natural fit through the night.

AirFit N30 CPAP mask
MinimalistNasal cradleNasal maskSoft cushion

AirFit N30

A lightweight nasal cradle mask made to feel simple, quiet, and easy to wear as part of your nightly routine.

AirFit P10 CPAP mask
MinimalistNasal pillowsLow profileSoft silicone

AirFit P10

A tiny, low-profile nasal pillows mask for people who want the lightest possible feel with easy everyday comfort.

The Somni Process

A guided path from symptoms to the right setup.

1
Start with a few questions

Start with a few questions

Tell us about your sleep and snoring

Share how you feel during the day

Quick, guided screening

2
Take your sleep test at home

Take your sleep test at home

Simple, guided setup

One-night test from the comfort of home

No clinic visit required

3
Get your results reviewed

Get your results reviewed

Your test is reviewed by a licensed physician

Understand what may be affecting your sleep

Get clear answers, not guesswork

4
Move forward with treatment

Move forward with treatment

Get matched to the right next step

Personalized treatment direction

Confidence in what comes next

Common issues — and what usually fixes them

Usually caused by incorrect fit, worn cushion, or strap tension. Try adjusting the headgear straps, check that the cushion size matches your face, and ensure the seal sits evenly without over-tightening.

This is common and typically fixed by enabling or increasing the humidifier setting on your CPAP machine. Heated tubing can also help. If using a nasal mask, a chin strap may reduce mouth leak that contributes to dryness.

Most modern machines have a pressure relief or ramp feature that starts at a lower pressure and gradually increases. Check your device settings or speak with your provider about enabling EPR (expiratory pressure relief).

Mask liners (fabric barriers between the cushion and skin) can help. Also ensure you're cleaning the cushion regularly with mild soap and water. Silicone-free cushion options exist for sensitive skin.

Most noise comes from air leaks rather than the machine itself. Check the mask seal, ensure tubing connections are secure, and place the machine on a stable, flat surface below bed level.

Ready to find the right solution?

It starts with understanding your risk. Take the quiz — it's free and takes 2 minutes.

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