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Why Do I Need to Replace My CPAP Parts and Accessories?
wp:paragraph Why Do I Need to Replace My CPAP Supplies? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are using a CPAP machine for your sleep apnea therapy, then you are aware of the initial costs to purchase the machine and its accessories. But do you realize that you have to replace some of its parts on a regular basis? And why? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Just think – you don’t use the same toothbrush for years. It begins to wear out and thus becomes less effective. To ensure your teeth get the best care, you replace your toothbrush regularly. The same concept applies to your CPAP machine. Its parts can break down or wear out too. Replacing them keeps your machine running optimally and ensures great seeps. So how often do you need to replace certain parts? Below are hints and the time frame when you should consider replacing CPAP supplies. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Filters /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your filters make sure that the air that travels from your CPAP machine to your airways is both clean and free of particles and allergens that can irritate your body. Over time, the filters become clogged or simply wear out. If you live in a region that is prone to being dusty or humid, then your filters will become clogged even faster. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph You can tell when you need to replace your filters by examining them visually, particularly for discolouration and wear. Expect to replace your filters twice a month. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Tubing /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How does the pressurized air get from your CPAP machine into your airways? Through the tubing. With nightly usage, the tubes can start to tear or crack, meaning you get less pressurized air than you need for a restful sleep. You can tell when you need to replace the tubes in several ways: consistently poorer sleeps, tears in the tubing material, and tubes that are no longer clear in colour. Replace your tubing about every 3 months. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Humidifier Water Chamber /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Using a humidifier with your CPAP machine can make a wonderful change in your night time comfort. Because it both warms and moistens the air entering your passageway, the humidifier helps minimize dry nose and mouth. It is especially useful if you have a cold or suffer from allergies. The chamber holds the distilled water for the humidifier. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph When it becomes discoloured or gets cracks, it is probably time to replace the water chamber. On average, you should replace it every 6 month /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop CPAP Supplies and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreWhat 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 moreLife With CPAP
wp:paragraph Who doesn't enjoy a good night's sleep? For many people, this could involve exercise, fresh air, a well-balanced diet, and a decent bed time. If you have sleep apnea, then you need to add an extra component to your routine: a CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph While it will help you get better sleeps, a CPAP machine does look a little imposing at first. The mask, the tubing, the device itself - it could give you second thoughts about using it. However, don't be quick to judge! This is what it is like to experience a day in the life of a CPAP user: /wp:paragraph wp:list Better concentration More energy Fewer headaches Happier mood Feelings of being well-rested /wp:list wp:paragraph And that's just the immediate experience. Your body will also reap the benefits, including reduced risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Of course, there is the matter of using your CPAP machine. This, too, is part of daily life, but the more you use your machine, the more natural it becomes. If you do have issues using it, then stop in to see your CPAP vendor. You may need a change regarding fit, style of mask, humidification, or extra cushioning, all of which are easily remedied. So if you want to experience a day in the life of a CPAP user, the time is now. Why wait any longer? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreTime for a new CPAP Machine?
wp:paragraph After you get a CPAP machine to help with your sleep apnea, you know that you have to maintain it. That means cleaning it regularly, checking for wear and tear, and replacing smaller parts when needed. But at some point, did you know that you may need to replace the entire machine? All good things must come to an end, and typically, a CPAP machine lasts around five years, depending on your frequency of maintenance, and overall usage. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3795,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Replacing your machine can be a good idea – you can get access to the latest technology, which can make sleep better and easier. Machines may become smaller, quieter, and easier to clean. This is great, but it leads to an important question – how do you know when you should replace your CPAP machine? Here are a few telltale signs that the time has come: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Is it noisy?: Your CPAP machine will make a gentle noise when it is on. However, if the noise becomes louder than usual and it doesn’t go away, then you may need to replace your machine. Does it work well?: As any appliance ages, it won’t work quite as well as it once did. If you notice that it doesn’t work enough to ensure that you get a good sleep every night, then your CPAP machine may be showing signs of age. Have you maintained your machine?: Sure, everyone knows that to make an appliance last longer, you need to take care of it. But after a week of work, obligations, and responsibilities, perhaps you didn’t take care of your CPAP machine as you should. This could result in your needing to replace it sooner than you anticipated. Is new for you?: No one says you have to wait for your CPAP machine to be on its last legs before you get a new one. If new technology means a quieter machine, a smaller machine, or a machine that has a feature that you would love, then consider taking advantage of these upgrades for an even better sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph If you are thinking of a new CPAP machine, find the one that is right for you, and enjoy sleep like never before! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop Now & Save This Fall /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
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Top Tips for CPAP Care and Maintenance
wp:paragraph How can you make sure that your CPAP machine stays in great working order for as long as possible? By taking care of it. No, it doesn’t get dragged through the mud, but it does get daily use. And over time, buildup and other residue can accumulate, wearing down parts and affecting its functioning. Happily, caring for and maintaining your CPAP machine doesn’t take much time. Here is what you need to do: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Clean out the humidifier chamber every day. This helps prevent calcification and bacteria from building up. Make sure you remove the chamber from the humidifier so that you don’t get water in your machine. Do not use tap water- use distilled water instead. Also use a gentle soap and a clean cloth. Allow the chamber to dry on a towel away from sunlight. Your mask: Because this piece item gets direct usage every night, you should clean it every day as well. Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap. You can instead buy wipes and cleaners specifically designed for your mask. Also, make sure you wash your face before wearing your mask! Moisturizers and other face creams can affect it. The filter: How you clean the filter depends if you have a disposable or non-disposable filter. If disposable, replace it at least every month, or more if it looks a bit dirty or dingy. For non-disposable filters, clean it at least every week, and more if you smoke, have critters, or if it is a high pollen time in your area. Tip top: Make sure you examine all of the parts of your CPAP machine regularly for signs of damage, wear and tear, residue buildup, or other issues that can affect its performance. Have replacement parts on hand. Keep your machine and its parts away from the sun as that can cause the parts to break down faster. /wp:list wp:paragraph These simple tips don’t take much time at all, and will help keep your machine running efficiently. If you have any questions, ask your vendor for help – your sleep depends on it! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All CPAP Masks On Sale This Week - Start Shopping Now! /wp:paragraph
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