Micro CPAP Seeks Funding

A new approach to treating obstructive sleep apnea could revolutionize the world of continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, as it’s better known. Entrepreneur Stephen Marsh will launch a funding campaign on Indiegogo next month for his new company, Airing.

Airing’s single product is a disposable, “micro” CPAP device. Weighing in at less than an ounce, the device has no cords, no hoses and no head straps. It fits directly into the nostrils via two air-tight nose buds. The micro-blowers inside operate on a battery.

Marsh invented the micro-CPAP when his research in the area of micro-fluidic pumps led to a realization that the current CPAP models are limited by several inefficiencies. He was already familiar with the struggle faced by CPAP users because his brother has obstructive sleep apnea and is termed “non-compliant,” meaning he does not use his machine as prescribed.

“As someone with a family member who suffers from apnea, I understand the potential serious health impacts of this condition,” says Marsh. “As a result of recent research, I realized that current pumps possess several deficiencies, which severely limit their effectiveness and saw an opportunity to apply a new design to these pumps that could be used in a variety of ways, including treating breathing disorders. The result is a solution that we believe has the potential to address this area and to help a large number of people live better, healthier lives.”

After conceiving of the micro-CPAP, Marsh worked with medical professionals and breathing disorder experts to fine-tune the device. Actual sales are subject to approval from the Food & Drug Administration.

Sources: Sleep Review Mag, Airing