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What Supplies Do I Need For My CPAP?
wp:paragraph After being diagnosed with sleep apnea, you need to start your treatment. That probably means getting a CPAP machine to help you sleep at night. But did you know that you need more than just the CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea? You also need accessories that can offer convenience, comfort, and safety in your new and improved sleeping situation. So what supplies and accessories do you actually need for your CPAP machine? Here are some items to consider: /wp:paragraph wp:list Cleaning supplies: You need to clean your CPAP machine, but you don’t necessarily need fancy cleaning supplies. Hand wash your parts with distilled water and non-allergenic soap, dust them using non-alcoholic wipes, and wipe them dry with clean towels. Backup power supply: It is inevitable – the power can go out while you are sleeping, and that can affect your CPAP machine. A backup power supply can ensure that your machine keeps running even in the event of a power outage. Portable battery pack: Going camping? Staying overnight at a friend’s house? Get a portable battery pack so that you can still have a great sleep even when you are not at home. Mask liners and cushions: If you like a little extra comfort with your CPAP, you can get gel-filled cushions and extra mask liners to provide extra more softness and comfort while you sleep. CPAP pillow: Your CPAP machine - it can take a little getting used to. Pillows specially designed for CPAP users helps ensure that you can get a comfortable sleep even while wearing your necessary equipment. Heated humidifier: Heating and air conditioning can bring dry conditions to your home. A heated humidifier will make sure that your nasal passages and airways remain warm and moist no matter what. Software: Yes! You can even get CPAP software. It monitors your sleeping, and based on your data, offers suggestions to help you get an even better sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph These are just a few of the accessories you can get to enjoy your CPAP machine even more. Ask your vendor about what items they have in stock, and snuggle down for deep and wonderful sleeps every night. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP 101
wp:paragraph CPAP is a common type of therapy for those suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where your airways frequently close while you try to sleep. This causes many short yet frequent interruptions while you sleep, affecting the quality of that sleep as well as the quality of your waking hours. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It is an effective treatment for sleep apnea. As the name suggests, your CPAP machine is designed to send gentle yet continuous pressure along through your airways to keep them open. Over time and with nightly usage, you will get better sleeps, meaning deeper sleeps. This trickles into your day, allowing you to feel less stressed and irritable, and having better focus and overall outlook. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How Does a CPAP Machine Work? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are three main components of your CPAP machine: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} The motor: The motor is like a small compressor that takes in air at room temperature and gently pressurizes it to just the right level so that it will keep your airways open but without disturbing your sleep. It also has a filter to keep out some particulates and other items. You can get accessories for your motor, such as a humidifier, to increase your comfort. A CPAP motor is very quiet – you will barely notice it! The hose: The hose is the delivery system for the pressurized air. It attaches from the motor to your mask (explained below). Although the length of the hose can vary based on the machine, they tend to be about 6 feet long. Your mask: The mask that you wear is how the pressurized air actually gets into your airways. You can find masks in all shapes and sizes to fit the variety of facial shapes and sizes. There are also different types of masks – nasal masks, nasal pillows, and full face masks. /wp:list wp:paragraph Note that there are other accessories that can increase the convenience and comfort of your CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Once you have been prescribed a CPAP machine, the most important thing you can do is to use it every night. If you use it infrequently or stop using it, then your sleep apnea symptoms tend to return, If you need help finding a comfortable CPAP setup, ask your doctor or CPAP suppler. Get the treatment you need to get long and restful sleeps again. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreSpring CPAP Tips
wp:paragraph With spring just around the corner, this new season means less bulky clothing, more time outside, and for some people – spring allergies. If you use a CPAP machine to address your sleep apnea, then dealing with both sleep apnea and spring allergies may make you want to hibernate! However, there are ways you can reduce some of the symptoms of your spring allergies that also affect your sleep apnea: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Indoor Pollutants /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph After huddling indoors for the winter, your house is probably full of common pollutants. These can include dust, pet dander if you own indoor animals, residue from perfumes, chemical and spray cleaners, smoke from a fireplace, or chemicals from smoking. What’s more, your rugs, carpets, and floors can harbor mites and other creatures that contribute to your spring allergies. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your solution – spring cleaning! Open your windows, pull out your vacuum and dust rag, and start a deep clean of every inch of your home. You should move couches, clean under rugs, and dust books on shelves. Use allergy-friendly cleaners so that you don’t inadvertently add different pollutants into your home. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Outdoor Pollutants /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph When spring arrives, the natural tendency is to get outdoors. And with good reason. But your allergies can also be affected by the outdoors. Fumes from car exhaust, pollen, lawn mowing, grass, and smog can all contribute to spring allergies, which again can affect your sleep apnea. Limit your time outdoors, and when you do go outside, try to go out earlier in the morning or later at night when the common outdoor pollutants are not as plentiful. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your CPAP Machine /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The end of winter is also a good time to spring clean your CPAP machine. Wash every piece thoroughly with mild soap and distilled water. Check for cracks, leaks, and tears, and replace any parts if needed. If you need help finding the correct parts or want advice about cleaning, contact your CPAP vendor. Be aware of how your spring allergies can affect your sleep apnea, and sleep easy whatever comes your way. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreMaintaining Your CPAP Machine
wp:paragraph If you have a CPAP machine, then you know how important it is to your daily life. And just like your car, your furnace, and your dishwasher, your CPAP machine and its accessories also need regular maintenance to make sure they function as well as possible. It doesn’t take much – simply a little time and a routine can keep your machine working at its best. Here is what you need to do:Clean your mask and tubing /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph With daily usage, your natural oils and chemicals can build up in your mask and tubing, gradually affecting the performance of your CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Every morning, hand-wash your mask and tubing (and chin straps if you have them) with a non-irritant soap and some warm water. A special tubing brush can get to those hard-to-reach places. Air dry, but not in direct sunlight. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Clean your humidifier /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you have a humidifier as part of your CPAP machine, then it too needs to be cleaned. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Along with your mask and tubing, gently wash the tub with mild soap and warm water. Air dry away from sunlight. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph To minimize chemical buildup in the tub and tubing, fill the tank with distilled water instead of tap water. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Check it out /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Every month, take a look at your CPAP machine and its accessories. Do you see any signs of wear and tear? Are there any holes, nicks, or tears in the tubing or mask? Even the smallest of holes can reduce your ability to get an optimal sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Also, look for any buildup, which can affect airflow. Check the filter for dust. Replace any parts as needed. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The sound of silence? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As technological advances continue, so do the abilities of your CPAP machine. So if your machine starts to make start unusual noises, regardless of how small, this could indicate that your machine needs some attention with the accessories, pressure, airflow, and more. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Next up! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Whether it is due to aging, new features, or changes in your diagnosis, there comes a time when your CPAP machine needs to be replaced for a newer model. But regardless of what machine you have or its age, always maintain your machine and its parts for more efficient functioning and of course, a better sleep. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP and Your Relationship
wp:paragraph If you have sleep apnea, you know how both your sleeping and waking times are affected. But if you have a significant other, your sleep apnea can affect them too. Whether it is the snoring, the inattentiveness, or the fatigue, this condition will take its toll on both of you. But there are strategies you both can take to make your relationship work – even when you have a CPAP machine. Here is what you can do: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Talk it out: How do you know what problems each of you face unless you discuss them? Be sure to do it in the day when both of you are in a good mood. Identify problem areas. Be flexible: You never know what is going to work, so give everything a try. For example, if the noise of a CPAP bothers your significant other, try using a white noise machine or a fan. You may need to sleep in another bed room for a while. Just don’t give up! Be patient: Rarely does something work perfectly on the first go. So before giving up on the white noise machine or fan, make sure you give it a few days before moving on. Perhaps try a different placement or a different setting. Try it!: If your spouse complains about the noise or disruptions, gently ask them to try on your mask or work the machine. Sometimes true understanding and sympathy comes from taking part. Your partner can relate easier to your situation, and possibly can make recommendations that will help. Ask for help: Everyone needs a helping hand once in a while, and that applies to you and your significant other too. If you find that nothing is working well enough, call your doctor. They can recommend strategies that perhaps you did not consider, suggest different types of masks or CPAP machines that may make the difference, and get you in touch with CPAP professionals who can give you hints and tips to make life - and your relationship - happier and healthier once again. /wp:list
Learn moreTop Tips for Sleep Hygeine
wp:paragraph Everyone has trouble sleeping sometimes. But if you experience sleep apnea or use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy to treat the condition, you know how difficult it can be to get a good night’s rest. Unfortunately, for many sleep apnea suffers, poor sleep hygiene only serves to make the problem worse. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph What is Sleep Hygiene? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Sleep hygiene refers to the daily habits and lifestyle choices that affect your quality of nighttime sleep. Cleaning up these bad habits can help you develop a sleep routine that promotes optimal nighttime rest and relaxation. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How to Improve Sleep Hygiene /wp:paragraph wp:list Get on a schedule. A consistent sleep routine helps your body fall into a healthy sleep-wake cycle. Go to bed on time and resist the urge to sleep in. Short daytime naps (no more than 30 minutes) are okay, as they can improve mood and give you a mental boost, but they are no substitution for nighttime rest. /wp:list wp:list Eat and drink wisely. Avoid meals that are fried, fatty or made with heavy spices or citrus. These foods cause indigestion and exacerbate heartburn in CPAP users. Drink alcohol in moderation and not too close to bedtime. Stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine, should also be avoided later in the evening. /wp:list wp:list Stay active during the day. As little as 10 minutes of light exercise is enough to help sleep apnea suffers and CPAP users rest easier come bedtime. So take a walk around your neighborhood. /wp:list wp:list Develop a relaxing bedtime routine. Turn off TVs and mobile screens. Put on your pajamas. Do some light stretching. Read a book. Focus on things that help you wind down for the night. /wp:list wp:list If possible, sleep on your side. This helps keep your airway open for unobstructed breathing. When you sleep on your back, gravity collapses breathing muscles and blocks your airway. Stomach sleepers are less likely to experience apnea, but this position can cause neck pain and may interfere with CPAP mask function. /wp:list wp:list Consider a CPAP pillow. Many users complain about mask discomfort. For example, some masks dig into the skin and may leave marks on the user’s face. CPAP pillows contain indentations designed to alleviate this problem and can help align your neck and back. /wp:list wp:paragraph Practicing proper sleep hygiene can help you get a better night’s rest. If you have questions about how your daily habits may be affecting your sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to consult your physician. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreHow to Choose the Right Mask Style
wp:paragraph There can be many health issues that a person experiences, and one of those could be sleep apnea. People with this condition experience constantly interrupted sleep due to their airways closing at night. One common treatment for sleep apnea is the use of a CPAP machine. Users wear a CPAP mask over their nose, or nose and mouth, when they sleep. Through a tube, the mask connects to a machine that sends a gentle flow of air through your airways to keep them open. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are different types of masks you can use. Which one is right for you? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Nasal CPAP Mask /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This mask covers your nose from the bridge to your upper lip. Because it delivers an indirect airflow to the airway, it works well if you need a higher pressure setting. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Consider this mask if you: /wp:paragraph wp:list Move around a lot when you sleep. Prefer a more natural flow of air. Would like a greater number of styles to fit different facial features and structure. Breathe primarily through your nose. This won’t work as well if you tend to breathe through your mouth or get sinus issues or allergies. /wp:list wp:paragraph Nasal Pillow /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This type of mask sits at the entrance of your nostril. It creates a seal to move the air directly into your nose. It is smaller and has less contact with you face than other types of masks. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Consider this mask if you: /wp:paragraph wp:list Toss and turn in your sleep. Cannot get comfortable using a larger mask. Breathe through your nose. Have a substantial amount of facial hair or wear glasses. Require less pressure. Due to the more direct airflow into your nasal passages, it can get uncomfortable if you need higher pressure. /wp:list wp:paragraph Full Face CPAP Mask /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This mask covers most of your mouth and nose, with side straps to secure it in place. This allows the mask to seal both airways. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This mask is great if you: /wp:paragraph wp:list Breathe mainly through your mouth or have issues that restrict your ability to breathe through your nose. Because the mask covers both your nose and mouth, it may take time for you to get used to wearing the mask. Need a higher pressure. Sleep on your back. /wp:list wp:paragraph Which Mask is Right for You? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Try different masks to find the one that is right for you. Ask for recommendations, get comfortable with the mask, and get ready for great sleeps again. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreWinter and CPAP - What You Need To Know
wp:paragraph When you use a CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea, then you know that winter can be a tough time. Cold air, a noticeable lack of humidity, and the greater likelihood of colds and sinus issues can make sleeping difficult. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Why is this? Just think of what your nose does! When you breathe in, your nose moistens and warms the air. It has to work extra hard when the air is cold. Extra blood is needed to do this, but that does two things. First, it narrows your nasal passages, and second, your body increases the production of mucus to protect the nasal passages. This can lead to a runny nose and nasal congestion. Trying to sleep at night using your machine may seem almost impossible! But here are some things you should know to overcome these issues: /wp:paragraph wp:list Before using it, make sure your CPAP mask is heated up. Do this by closing windows and heating up your bedroom, or placing the tubes underneath your clothes so that they get warmed up by your body heat. Use a stand-alone humidifier in your room or get a humidifying attachment for your sleep apnea machine. /wp:list wp:paragraph What happens if you do get a cold or sinus issue? There are ways you can still get a relatively decent night’s sleep, including: /wp:paragraph wp:list Use a saline nasal spray. It adds moisture to your sinus passages. It can also help relieve any swelling so that you can breathe easier. If you decide to use a decongestant, remember to take it early enough so that it is working by the time you go to sleep. In general, you should keep using your sleep apnea machine to help get rest. However, if you are incredibly uncomfortable, take a short break from it until your cold symptoms have improved. /wp:list wp:paragraph If you need advice about the ways to improve the use of your CPAP machine during winter or when you have a cold, contact your doctor. Having the knowledge is first line of defense in beating Old Man Winter. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreGetting The Most Out Of Your CPAP
wp:paragraph Once you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you most likely have been prescribed a CPAP machine to get a better sleep. However, getting used to sleeping with a CPAP machine can take some getting used to. Here are some basic tips to help you get the most out of your sleep apnea machine: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Start using your machine for short periods of time. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This will help you get used to wearing the mask, become comfortable with the noise, and become acquainted with the machine itself. Consider wearing it while watching television or reading. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Add CPAP into your sleep routine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The more you use CPAP, the better you will feel! Make sure you use your machine every time you sleep, including naps. This lets you get used to its benefits and allows your body to adjust faster. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Clean your equipment. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The best way to ensure that your sleep apnea machine works optimally is to take care of it. That means setting aside time to clean all of the components, such as the tubing and mask, thoroughly. Slot this time into your schedule so that it becomes habit. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Make incremental adjustments when you need. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph What do you do if your mask is too tight, the placement is uncomfortable, the pressure is too high, or the noise seems a bit too loud? Make small and gradual changes for each aspect until it seems right, then move on to the next one. Don’t make all changes all at once – that can be hard to determine if you have truly addressed the issue. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph See your doctor. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are having problems sleeping or feeling sufficiently rested even after following the tips above, schedule an appointment with your doctor. They can address the underlying issues that could be preventing you from cozying down for a sweet, quality slumber. /wp:paragraph
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