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CPAP and Allergies
wp:paragraph If you use CPAP equipment to treat your sleep apnea, summer time can bring about wonderful warm weather – but also seasonal allergies. This presents some unique challenges. As a CPAP user, the right equipment, proper care, and extra personal attention can make all the difference. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Symptoms of Congestion from Seasonal Allergies /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you have allergies, sometimes called hay fever, then you probably are very familiar with runny, watery eyes and nasal congestion. This is caused by pollen and other irritants in the air you breathe. When you can no longer breathe through your nose, you obviously have to breathe through your mouth. This makes breathing more difficult and tends to dry out your nose and mouth. Humidifying the air you breathe can help bring relief and comfort. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Humidifier for Allergy Relief /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Having summer time allergies can be difficult for anyone, and even more so if you use a CPAP machine. Getting a machine that allows the air you breathe to be both heated and humidified can help relieve nasal congestion and assist in better sleeps. Check your machine to see if it already has settings to allow for moisture. You can adjust for the humidity levels that you prefer and account for your geographic location. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Also consider using a full face mask during prime allergy season. This helps ensure you get the full benefits of your CPAP machine even when you need to breathe through your mouth. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Preventing Allergy Symptoms /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph In addition to a CPAP humidifier, you can get extra relief by doing the following: /wp:paragraph wp:list Close windows at night to minimize pollen exposure. Take a cool shower before bed to remove pollen from your hair or body. Replace air conditioner filters. Wear fresh pajamas that haven’t been exposed to the outdoors. /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP Supplies Basics
wp:paragraph Sleep apnea is a condition where your muscles in your throat and air passages relax while you sleep. This can cause a blockage in your airways, resulting in frequent nighttime interruptions. Sufferers will experience constant fatigue, irritation, and without treatment, could lead to more serious issues such as stroke or heart attack. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph One therapy used to treat sleep apnea is CPAP, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. The CPAP machine sends a gentle but constant stream of air through your airways to keep them open throughout the night. This means a restful sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Although there are many different types of CPAP machines and accessories you can get, there are some basics regarding the supplies you will need. These include: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Replacement filters: Because they help to remove dust, pollen, and other irritants from your machine, having replacement filters will help make sure your sleeps remain restful. Change them about every three months or sooner if they appear to be dirty or clogged. Hose: The hose, also called tubing, delivers air from your CPAP machine to your mask. Your machine most likely came with one standard length hose. Because it will wear out, it is a good idea to have an extra hose on hand. You can get them heated to add moisture, or have them extra long if you toss and turn at night. Mask parts: Over time, your mask can lose its suction, or else you may find the cushion isn’t as comfortable as it used to be. Replace these as needed to ensure both personal comfort and optimal airflow while you sleep. Machine parts: If you travel a lot, you could benefit from an extra power cord or battery backup system. They are lightweight and portable so that you get a great sleep no matter where you are. /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP Travel Tips
wp:paragraph Living with sleep apnea is not the easiest thing to do. Travelling with a CPAP machine can seem overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. With some planning and preparation, you can travel locally or abroad, in luxury suites or in the great outdoors without problem. Here are some travel tips to get you on your way: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Because luggage can get lost, be sure to take your CPAP machine in your carry on if travelling by plane. It’s also a good idea to take your current prescription for verification of what the device is used for. Check with your airline's policy about bringing your CPAP machine on board and using it. Your model needs to meet the airline’s requirements. When packing your CPAP machine, don’t forget to empty the humidifier chamber of its water. Bring extra mask cushions in case some get lost or damaged. If you need to fill up your CPAP machine, never use plain tap water – always use bottled or distilled water. For international travel, bring the correct voltage adapter for the location where you will be staying so that you can use your CPAP machine wherever you are. What goes well together? Camping and your CPAP machine! If you still want to sleep under the stars, consider getting a lightweight and portable model. Regardless of where you are travelling, buying or renting a backup battery pack can help protect power outages or if you will be travelling in areas with intermittent power availability. /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP Mask Breakdown and How it Happens
wp:paragraph If you have sleep apnea, then one of your recommended therapies is to use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine whenever you sleep. But like any piece of equipment, usage and time can cause any part of your CPAP machine, such as the mask, to break down. Why is this? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph First – what is the mask? It is the harder plastic piece that you wear over your nose, face, or both. The mask is typically made of a material called silicone. As it ages, the silicone gradually starts to deteriorate. And at some point, it becomes too soft to maintain the seal needed for optimal sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph But age is only one factor in the breakdown of your mask. Your own body too can increase the rate of breakdown. Oils, bacteria, and acid will cause the mask to become less flexible. Over time, you will have to tighten the mask more and more, which can affect the integrity of the mask and contribute to its breakdown. It can also lead to air leakage, resulting in poorer sleeps. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Finally, there is maintenance. The more you clean your mask, the more oils and bacteria you can remove. But if you don’t clean your mask as often as you should, that too will add to the faster breakdown of the silicone. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are simple solutions to the issue of breakdown. First, clean your mask every day. You can use specialty wipes that remove your oils from the mask. Next, there is you! By removing makeup, oils, or moisturizers before you use your mask, you will help keep it strong. Additionally, inspect your mask regularly for warping, cracks, or tears. Finally, make sure you replace your mask when the time is right. Better sleeps using continuous positive airway pressure make for better days. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreSummer CPAP Tips
wp:paragraph Sunny days, cool breezes, and long stretches of warm weather – it must be summer! But if you have sleep apnea, then those summer days and warm nights can make sleep difficult, even if you use a CPAP machine. But there are ways you can make sleeping not just possible but refreshing, even in the summer. Here are some summer CPAP tips to keep under your pillow: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Keep it cool: Trying to sleep when it’s hot outside may seem impossible. Use your air conditioner at night, but if you don’t have one, use fans. Place bowls of cool water in front of them for a refreshing mist. Shower time: Another way to prepare yourself for sleep is to take a quick shower before bed. Not only do you feel refreshed, but you can remove any particles that you are allergic to. Dark times: It’s hard to fall asleep when it is light out! Use blackout shades or heavy curtains to create the right conditions for sleeping. Clean machine: It isn’t only you that needs some sleeping TLC – your CPAP machine does too. Heat and humidity can encourage the growth of mold and other spores. Be sure to clean your machine thoroughly every day and replace your filters regularly. Schedule an appointment: If you are having particular problems sleeping during the summer, make an appointment to see your doctor. They can suggest ways to encourage sleep, advise ways to stay asleep, and help you feel recharged regardless of the hot humid conditions outside. Enjoy! /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreTips for CPAP Newbies
wp:paragraph Sleep apnea would be a far greater hardship without the use of your trusty CPAP machine, but did you know that it might be able to bring you even more relief than it already does? Here are three tips to ensure that you're using this treatment to its fullest advantage. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Check Your Fit /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If your mask doesn't stay firmly in place when you move around, it won't be able to regulate your breathing properly. Verify that your mask fits you properly - it shouldn't move much under light pressure and you shouldn't have to adjust the straps very much either. If yours really is too loose, consider switching it out for a better-fitting version. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Double Up On Treatments /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your CPAP machine is an excellent tool, but it will be even more effective if used in combination with other respiratory aids. A humidifier can help the air in your bedroom to circulate more easily through your airways, and a decongestant syrup or spray can make sure the path is clear - talk to your doctor to see if this is an option. With these extra additions giving you a boost, you'll breathe and sleep better than ever. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Take Steps to Get Proper Sleep /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Falling asleep in a reasonable amount of time can be tricky enough on its own, and adding a CPAP mask to the mix can make it harder. That's why it's vital that you follow a healthy sleep regimen. Go to bed at a decent hour, wake up at about the same time every day, and keep electronics away from you during your last half-hour before bed. These efforts will ensure that you get consistent restful sleep and are minimally bothered by the presence of your mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Optimal CPAP use can make a massive difference to your sleep apnea symptoms, and you deserve that. Put your health first by putting these tips into action! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreNewly Diagnosed With OSA? Here's the Scoop...
wp:paragraph If you have been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), then you may have lots of questions. What do I need to do to get better? How will my daily life be affected? And what exactly is OSA? Here is the scoop about the basics of OSA. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph First – what is it? OSA, also called sleep apnea, is a condition that causes you to wake up many, many times over the course of a night. This happens because your airways become blocked while you sleep. These short but frequent interruptions affect your sleep, causing you to become irritable, constantly tired, and unable to focus. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Next – how do you get diagnosed? You need to see a sleep specialist who can record your symptoms and history, and conduct tests to see if you do have OSA. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you do have OSA, then you get to get effective treatment. That involves several components. The first is changes in lifestyle. Stop smoking, reduce your alcohol intake, get more exercise, and eat a well-balanced diet will go a long way in helping reduce your symptoms. But there is a medical component too. Chances are, you will need to get a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. It sends a gentle stream of pressurized air into your airways to keep them open while you sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Keep in mind that all of this takes time. If you suspect you have OSA, ask your partner, if you have one, to tell you if you snore, seem to toss and turn, or have trouble sleeping. That will be the first clue. Then you need to make an appointment with your doctor, who may refer you to a sleep specialist. Your sleep test may involve staying overnight at a clinic. Then the specialist will analyze your results and prescribe the best course of action. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Finally, you need to get your CPAP machine. You can choose from various makes and models, from those that cover just your nasal passages to those that cover your face. It also takes time to get used to wearing the machine at night, and you have to learn to take care of your machine. If you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty locale, then you need to take extra care. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This may seem like a lot of work, and rightfully so. But you and your health are worth every moment. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCamping With CPAP
wp:paragraph Do you like camping? Thinking of going this summer? But wait – you have sleep apnea and need to use a CPAP machine. If you think camping is out of the question, think again. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Camping with your CPAP machine is not just possible, it’s a lot easier than you may realize. You can get lightweight CPAP models, power supplies, and packing options to give you the right options for your style of camping. Here are some tips to help you plan your next trip: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Use your CPAP machine!: If you want a great sleep in the great outdoors, you need to continue using your machine. So your first tip is to bring along your machine and use it. Consider purchasing a CPAP travel bag that will keep your machine and supplies safe and easy to pack. Know how to use your CPAP machine: Sure, you already know how to use your machine – but inside your own home. But have you tried it outdoors? In a tent? Before you go, have a trial run so that you can work out any kinks before your adventure begins. Get a battery pack: Because anything can happen while camping, it is a good idea to have a battery supply so that you know your machine will have power to run. Understand how to use the pack and how to determine the number of hours you have remaining. Keep in mind that the pressure setting and humidification will drain the power faster. Change that filter: Being outdoors can affect the filter more than being inside. More pollen, dirt, and debris will fill up your filter faster than you expect. Make sure your filter is clean before you go and replace it once you get home. /wp:list wp:paragraph Having sleep apnea doesn’t have to affect your vacation plans. With a few tweaks and tests, you can continue to enjoy Mother Nature in all of her glory. If you have questions about accessories or using your machine outdoors, contact your CPAP supplier. Go for it! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP Mask Cleaning Basics
wp:paragraph Why Clean Your Mask /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Do you know one of the key components to a successful CPAP therapy? Keeping it clean. And cleaning your mask in particular is important. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are quite a few reasons why you should clean your mask regularly. First, creams, moisturizers, and just basic daily life will cause a greasy film to accumulate on your mask. Next, irregular cleaning can allow germs to thrive, especially after you have been sick. Finally, the accumulation of grime can start to wear away at your mask, affecting its integrity. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How to Clean Your Mask /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Cleaning anything may seem like a common and routine task. And although it isn’t difficult, cleaning your CPAP mask does require a little bit of care. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph First and foremost, make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations about cleaning, just in case they have specific requirements pertaining to the warranty. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Second, a few tips basic tips: never put your mask in the dishwasher or washing machine to clean it. Always hand wash. Always air dry away from direct sunlight. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Make sure you take apart your mask before cleaning it. This allows you to get into the nooks and crannies for a more thorough clean. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Soak your mask in a medical cleanser designed specifically for your mask. You can get such a cleaner from your CPAP supplier. Use a soft bristle brush, lukewarm tap water, and a gentle soap to clean the mask. Do not use bleach or alcohol-based cleaning solutions. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Once you have cleaned all parts, rinse thoroughly and let dry. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A few other tips: always wash your face before wearing your mask to avoid excessive oil buildup. Also, if you notice any cracks or tears in your mask, get them replaced as soon as possible. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you have any questions about your mask and how to clean it, ask your manufacturer. Get to know your mask, and get reacquainted with great sleeps. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
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