What benefits can be expected from mask ventilation?
Mask ventilation is initiated when symptoms of respiratory distress develop or when measured parameters indicate the presence of a respiratory dysfunction. The expected outcome of mask ventilation depends on which of these two scenarios is present.
If you experience distressing symptoms of labored breathing, adjusting the breathing mask is expected to provide relief. Nighttime mask ventilation relieves the respiratory muscles, resulting in a noticeable restorative effect and easier breathing during the day. Another benefit of mask ventilation occurs when lying down or sleeping. Breathing while lying down can be difficult (orthopnea), and wearing the mask can be experienced as immediate relief. Improved sleep (with enhanced gas exchange and reduced carbon dioxide levels in the blood) can reduce daytime sleepiness and restore the “refreshing effect” of a good night’s sleep.
Other positive effects of mask ventilation may include reduced bronchial mucus production: Improved airway ventilation and expansion of the lung tissue resulting from positive-pressure ventilation can help reduce the accumulation of secretions in the bronchi. This effect can also be expected when using a cough assist device. In patients who begin mask ventilation due to reduced respiratory parameters (vital capacity below 70%) and who do not exhibit any subjective symptoms, a positive effect from ventilatory therapy can still be expected.
In this context, the effect should be understood as prophylactic. Early initiation of mask ventilation can prevent or reduce the undesirable effects of hypoventilation (failure of lung tissue to expand, accumulation of bronchial secretions, reduced gas exchange, and accumulation of carbon dioxide).
Clinical studies on mask ventilation have shown that early and consistent use of mask ventilation is associated with an improved prognosis (life expectancy and quality of life). These positive effects of mask ventilation should also serve as an “incentive” for patients who do not experience symptoms of respiratory dysfunction to use mask ventilation continuously and for a sufficient duration (ideally more than eight hours per day).