A Brief History and Timeline Of The CPAP Machine And The Condition Sleep Apnea

The CPAP machines are used to help with the symptoms of a potential serious condition called Sleep Apnea. Today it is believed that over 17 million people in just the US that suffer with Sleep Apnea.Here is a timeline of the condition up to now and the possible treatments available.The First Recordings of Sleep Apnea: Charles Dickens 1836 In the early 19th Century, The Pickwick Papers was published, the first novel by Charles Dickens, and was released in monthly instalments. A sub character within the books called Joe, was often described as a "Fat Boy" who always eats and then falls asleep. This sleep disorder is the origin for the medical term " Pickwickian Syndrome", which lead to the subsequent Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome. However "Pickwickian syndrome" wasn't used for years later.1956: The True effects of Sleep Apnea revealed In 1956, Dr. Burwell was treating various patients who often had congestive heart failure, extreme sleepiness or fatigue, as well as improper airflow to the lungs; or respiratory failure. Burwell told the story of an obese business man who whilst playing poker missed out on the chance to play his hand of three aces and two kings, because he fall asleep. This is the first time " Pickwickian Syndrome" was recorded as a actually medical condition.1965: Research in to sleep disorders begins In 1965 a team of European Doctors, lead by Dr. Gastaut started to research and study the condition Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Here whilst examining various patients they discovered and recalled the three different types of Sleep Apnea. In 1969, Obstructive Sleep Apnea was beginning in the trachea and injecting breathing tubes.The First CPAP Machine:1981 In 1981, the first CPAP machine was developed by the Australian Colin Sullivan and his team of experts. Their idea was pretty basic and used the concept of reversing how a vacuum cleaner works, pushing air out instead of sucking in. They then applied this idea to a mask that the Sleep Apnea patient can wear as they sleep. This treatment wasn't seen as a efficient procedure until at least the mid 80s.Sleep Apnea and CPAP machines now: CPAP machines have developed since the older models, they are smaller, easier to handle and make a lot less noise. Since Sullivan's research and development of the first CPAP machine, CPAP became the more efficient and best way to treat Sleep Apnea. Cpap machine and cushioned masks are now available to make using a CPAP machine an easy and pleasant experience. A big step from the basic, loud and big machines of the early 1980s.Throughout the past century, Sleep Apnea went from being an unknown condition to something that can easily be treated. Due to extensive research and Sleep societies throughout the world, Sleep Apnea is no longer ignored and there is always advice guidance and support if you have the condition.