CPAP pressure is measured in centimeters of water, written cmH₂O. The right pressure is the one prescribed for your treatment—not a single average or a setting chosen from a severity chart.
Understand fixed pressure and a pressure range
Fixed CPAP uses one prescribed treatment pressure. An AutoSet or other APAP machine can adjust within prescribed minimum and maximum limits. A device’s available operating range describes what it can deliver, not what every patient should use.
Who determines the settings?
Your treating clinician uses sleep testing, symptoms, health history and therapy data to select and review settings. Do not assume mild apnea needs one pressure band or severe apnea another.
Why comfort problems need a review
Mask leaks, nasal dryness, bloating, difficulty exhaling and persistent sleepiness can have several causes. Check the equipment as instructed and describe the problem to your provider. Changing pressure without a review may leave therapy less effective.
AirSense settings depend on the model
The AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 families include versions with different modes and connectivity. Confirm the model and prescribed setup. Humidity, ramp and expiratory pressure relief should be used according to the manual and provider’s guidance.
Find the right equipment and supplies
See our CPAP purchase guide and CPAP masks and supplies. MedEquip Shop helps compare equipment; the treating clinician determines your clinical settings.
Frequently asked questions
What does cmH₂O mean?
It is centimeters of water, the unit used to express PAP pressure.
Is 10 cmH₂O the correct pressure for everyone?
No. Pressure requirements are individual and must follow the prescription.
Does apnea severity tell me my pressure?
Not by itself. Your clinician considers testing, symptoms and your response to treatment.
How does APAP manage pressure?
It adjusts pressure within the limits prescribed and configured for your treatment.
Who should review uncomfortable pressure?
Contact your treating clinician or equipment provider with symptoms, leak information and therapy data.
