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Need to Replace Some Parts of your CPAP Machine This Summer?
wp:paragraph If you’ve been using a CPAP machine for some time, then you may know that like anything else, some of the parts wear out eventually and will need to be replaced on a regular basis, no matter how often you clean them. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph It may seem like a lot and it may seem costly at first (unless you get some or all of it covered by insurance), but remember that this is a very important investment in your sleep, which is an essential part of your overall well being. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are a few CPAP parts that can wear down quicker in the summer months: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The mask cushioning and/or headgear: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A good rule of thumb: if your CPAP mask no longer seals properly, it’s time to replace it. Your facial oils, combined with excessive sweat in the summer can cause these parts to break down a little quicker. In order to prolong the life of these parts, make sure you are cleaning your mask on a daily basis. Using a CPAP machine with a mask that is not sealing properly will cause it to not work to its full potential, and you will not sleep well as a result. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Tubing/Hose: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Be sure to clean the hose or tubing of your CPAP machine regularly to remove any mineral buildup, and check it for any cracks or tears. Even the smallest of deficiencies can compromise your CPAP therapy. Luckily, they can last up to a year if cleaned regularly. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph CPAP Filters: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Filters need replacing the most often in your CPAP machine, especially in the summer months. Summer brings an increase of pollen in the air, which will be caught in the filters. You may want to change it more frequently in the summer months, as the CPAP machine will not function at its full potential if the filters are too dirty. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Don’t forget to clean the parts of your CPAP mask regularly! This will extend the life of the parts. Be sure to visit https://www.papsmart.com/product-category/cpap-supplies-and-accessories/ for your CPAP parts replacement needs. /wp:paragraph
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Sleep and Alcohol
wp:paragraph Thinking about having a few drinks this weekend? Before you go too crazy, you should be aware of how alcohol could affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph While having a few drinks in moderation is usually okay for sleeping, having too much can cause problems when bedtime comes around. And let’s face it, no one enjoys the unpleasant “morning after” effects that alcohol has on your system. While drinking before bedtime can cause you to fall asleep faster, you may not necessarily stay asleep the way you should be. Many people experience insomnia when they drink too much and this can also affect your rapid eye movement (REM), an essential part of the sleep cycle where you are in a deep sleep, and your body has been known to restore itself during this process. The more you drink, the worse the effects can be. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A few tips to safely enjoy a few alcoholic beverages without disrupting your sleep: /wp:paragraph wp:list Know your limits and stick to them: drinking alcohol can affect everyone differently depending on your age, gender, and body type. Don’t drink very close to bedtime: having 1-2 drinks earlier in the evening (for example, with dinner) is usually okay, but having too much to drink, especially late at night close to bedtime can really hurt your ability to get a good night’s sleep. If you did indulge a bit too much, drink lots of water before you go to bed: alcohol is known to dehydrate your system, so drinking water can not only help to hydrate you, but it can help you to avoid getting a headache in the morning, a typical after-effect of drinking too much. Do not use alcohol as an aid to fall asleep: speak to your doctor if you are having trouble sleeping at night, they can assist you using a healthier method than alcohol. /wp:list
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