CPAP Words in Plain Language: APAP, Ramp, Humidifier and More
CPAP comes with its own vocabulary. This plain-language guide explains the words you will see on product pages and in your doctor's notes.
A plain-language guide to the CPAP words you will meet as a first-time user
When you first look at CPAP machines, the words can feel like a second language: APAP, AutoSet, EPR, HumidX. You do not need to memorise them. But knowing roughly what each one means makes product pages, doctor's notes and conversations with your family much easier to follow.
The machine itself
CPAP
Short for continuous positive airway pressure. It describes a machine that blows a gentle, steady stream of air through a tube and mask while you sleep. People often use "CPAP" for the whole family of these machines.
APAP and AutoSet
APAP means auto-adjusting positive airway pressure. Instead of holding one fixed pressure all night, the machine adjusts within the range your doctor sets. "AutoSet" is ResMed's name for this on the AirSense 10. All three machines we offer, the AirStart 10, the AirSense 10 AutoSet and the AirMini, are APAP machines.
Pressure
The strength of the airflow. Your doctor sets the pressure or the pressure range. It is not something to change by yourself.
Comfort features
Ramp and AutoRamp
A ramp starts the airflow at a lower pressure while you are falling asleep, then rises to the set level. AutoRamp, on the AirSense 10 AutoSet, is a version that waits until it senses you have fallen asleep before rising. Many first-time users find it easier to settle with a gentler start.
EPR
Expiratory pressure relief. It lowers the pressure a little as you breathe out, so breathing out against the airflow feels less effortful. It is available on the AirSense 10 AutoSet. Whether to use it, and at what level, is something to discuss with your doctor.
Humidity words
Humidifier and water tub
A humidifier adds moisture to the air before it reaches you. It uses a small water tub that you fill before bed and empty in the morning. This matters in Malaysia because many of us sleep in air-conditioned rooms, which can leave the nose and mouth dry.
HumidAir
The name of the built-in humidifier on the AirStart 10. It means there is no separate part to attach: fill the tub, plug in and press Start.
Climate Control
A feature on the AirSense 10 AutoSet that manages the humidity and temperature of the air together. It can help reduce water droplets forming in the tube in a cold room.
Waterless humidification (HumidX)
The AirMini is a compact travel machine. Instead of a water tub, it uses small HumidX parts that hold moisture from your own breath. That is why it is easier to pack for a trip.
Mask words
Cushion and headgear
The cushion is the soft part that touches your face and forms the seal. The headgear is the set of straps that holds the mask in place.
Nasal, nasal pillows and full face
These are the three main mask types. A nasal mask (such as the AirFit N20) covers the nose. Nasal pillows (AirFit P30i) sit at the nostrils with less on the face. A full face mask (AirFit F20) covers nose and mouth. Masks are bought separately, from RM600 for the mask only.
Leak
Air escaping where the cushion does not seal. A small amount is normal. A loud hiss usually means the mask has shifted; adjusting it while lying down helps more than pulling the straps tighter.
Buying and renting words
Two more terms come up when you order. Buy means the machine is yours: the AirStart 10 from RM4,500, the AirSense 10 AutoSet from RM6,500 and the AirMini from RM4,900. Rent means a monthly fee: RM280 / month for the AirStart 10 and RM450 / month for the AirSense 10 AutoSet. The AirMini is not offered for rent. Part of the rental can count towards buying; the amount is confirmed on WhatsApp.
Now that the words make sense, you can see each model in our CPAP machines, or answer a few simple help-me-choose questions. Delivery covers every location in Malaysia, including Subang Jaya, Melaka and Alor Setar.
Came across a word that is not on this list? Ask us.
This article is general guidance, not medical advice. Your doctor decides whether CPAP therapy suits you and sets its pressure and other settings.