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Understanding CPAP
wp:paragraph If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you may wonder what your treatment options are. If you have already made lifestyle changes with little to no success, your next choice may be to get a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. You may be concerned about what it is and how it works; after all, with tubes, a mask, and the machine itself, being able to get a good night’s sleep could seem impossible. But once you understand the components of sleep apnea machines, that elusive sleep is actually just around the corner. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3724,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph The goal of your CPAP machine is to send a gentle yet constant stream of air through your airways to keep your throat from collapsing, which disrupts your sleep. To do this, your CPAP consists of the following major parts: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} The motor: The motor of sleep apnea machines is a small compressor that draws in air and adds light pressure to clear any obstruction in our airways while you breathe. The air intake component has a filter, which you can replace, that screens out particulates. More modern machines have humidifiers to moisten the air to prevent dryness. Best of all, the motor is very quiet – you may forget it is even on! The hose: The hose delivers the pressurized air from the motor to the mask that you wear. While the diameter of the hose can vary based on the machine, most hoses are about 6 feet long. The mask: To get the air into your body, you need to wear a mask. To promote comfort, you can find masks in different sizes and shapes to fit most variations in facial size. There are three main types of mask: nasal pillows, nasal masks, and masks for your entire face. You may need to try several different masks until you find the one that gives you the best sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph Once you have a CPAP machine, the most important factor is using it! It may look daunting, but as with everything, once you start using it, you will get used to it. Not using it can actually cause your symptoms to come back. Get acquainted with your CPAP machine, and you will begin to feel well rested sooner than you realize. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreIs it time to replace the parts of your CPAP machine?
wp:paragraph Now that 2017 is in full swing, it is time to start taking a good look at your CPAP machine and do a bit of an inventory as to which parts are working great and which parts could stand to get a bit of an upgrade. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3715,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Maybe you were only diagnosed with sleep apnea very recently and your machine is relatively new, or maybe you’ve been using your CPAP machine for years and the parts are starting to get worn out. Either way, keeping your CPAP machine in top working condition is essential to helping you get a great nights’ sleep. Part of this will mean that you need to upgrade some parts of your machine every once in a while. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph And when should you be replacing those parts? /wp:paragraph wp:list Nasal and full face cushions: experts recommend every 15-30 days. The oils on your face tend to break down the material faster, making them wear out quickly Headgear: this should be replaced every 6 months as the elasticity can wear down and make your mask not fit properly Tubing: with proper cleaning, this can last as long as 3 months before a replacement is needed Filter: this can last as long as 1 month, possibly less depending on how dusty the environment around it is Machine: CPAP machines can last as long as 5-7 years if taken care of properly Humidifier this should be replaced every 6 months as the chamber can become discoloured and break down due to overuse /wp:list wp:paragraph Some tips to remember when planning out your CPAP machine upgrades: /wp:paragraph wp:list Always keep your receipts and write down the dates that you got the new part(s) for your machine, this will help you to keep track of how long they have been around and when they should be replaced If some (or all) of your CPAP machine parts can be covered by your insurance provider, be sure to check beforehand as to what is covered and what is not so you do not run into any surprises Keeping your machine clean on a regular basis will help your CPAP machine to last longer. Be sure to incorporate this into your daily or weekly routine! /wp:list wp:paragraph Don’t forget to check out papsmart.com for all your CPAP machine needs! The all-in-one packages are on sale now for a limited time only! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop & Save Today! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreWhy you should invest in CPAP humidification
wp:paragraph Winter has made its grand entrance over the past few weeks, a little ahead of schedule. And with the cold temperatures comes dry air. Many people own a humidifier that runs in certain rooms in their home (such as the bedroom) to inflict moisture in the air to make for a more comfortable living experience. Many new CPAP users may be surprised to learn that you can actually get a humidifier for your CPAP machine as well. But why do many people overlook this? /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3712,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The good news is that heated humidification for your CPAP machine can help to reduce all of this durastically. Heated humidifiers use water, through a water chamber attached to your machine that adds moisture to the airflow and heats it. So if you have a humidifier in your living room while watching TV, why not invest in one that runs while you use your CPAP machine at night? By adding moisture to the CPAP air flow, it not only gives you a good night’s sleep, but it also keeps your airway moisturized, helping to avoid many common cold symptoms. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph It is important to remember to clean your machine parts on a regular basis in order to prolong the life of your CPAP machine and its parts and avoid the tube from getting mouldy from the moisture. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Many models of CPAP machines sold today actually do come with a heated humidifier. If you do not have one, you may want to seriously think about investing in one. Check out papsmart.com for a wide variety of CPAP machines with humidifiers. /wp:paragraph
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Should I use my CPAP machine with a cold?
wp:paragraph It’s that time of year where everyone around you seems to be coming down with something. Cold and flu season is never any fun to have to come to terms with, especially when you use a CPAP machine. It can be uncomfortable to try and sleep with a stuffed up nose and a headache amongst many of the other symptoms that your cold may present. With a CPAP machine, part of using it means your airways need to remain open and accessible for air to flow though as you sleep in order for the CPAP therapy to work properly. So cold tend to present a challenge for CPAP users. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The big question you may ask is: should you just forget about the CPAP machine when you have a bad cold? As tempting as it may seem, the one thing to keep in mind is that even one night without your CPAP machine can trigger your sleep apnea symptoms even worse than before. And if you thought that you were having trouble breathing in the first place with your cold, it will be even worse mixed with sleep apnea symptoms such as the pauses in breathing that can occur as you sleep. For these reasons, you are best to keep using your CPAP machine when you are sick, no matter how crappy you may feel. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are a few tips for CPAP machine users to keep in mind when you are dealing with a cold: /wp:paragraph wp:list A lot of over the counter medicines will help to alleviate many cold symptoms including saline spray. Don’t be afraid to use these in moderation to help you sleep better Do not attempt to drive if you are feeling drowsy Make sure you are keeping your CPAP machine clean on a regular basis, this will help with the overall function of the machine and can also help to prevent a bad cold in the first place Take advantage of heated humidification for your CPAP machine: this will help you to have a more comfortable experience using your CPAP machine, especially when you are sick Try keeping your head propped up: this helps to control any nasal drip and helps to alleviate stuffiness Give yourself time to rest! This is the key to helping overcome any cold. Give yourself a good day or two off work to get the rest you really need to fight this! /wp:list
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Sleep Apnea and Seasonal Allergies
wp:paragraph The snow is finally melting and spring has arrived! While you may be excited about the buzz of spring, you may find yourself suffering from seasonal allergies and/or flu like symptoms, just like many people around you may experience during big changes in weather and air pressure. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph For those with sleep apnea, this can affect your sleeping patterns in a big way, especially if you use a CPAP machine at night. Some may just have issues with the excessive dryness in the air that occurs at this time of year and experience some cold symptoms, including headaches or migraines, sinus congestion, and sore throat. Others have ongoing issues with allergies and may have a lot of nasal congestion, especially at night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All of this can affect your sleep cycle, especially when you have sleep apnea. Several studies done over time have found a very strong link between obstructive sleep apnea and hay fever, which is a term for an allergy of pollen or dust in the air. This often causes a blockage in the airway which leads to; yes you guessed it, obstructive sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Many people also experience insomnia as a result of their seasonal allergies. As if you have to sleep with your nose completely stuffed up, try using a CPAP machine on top of that. Doesn’t sound like much fun, right? Unfortunately it is very common for people to have some bad nights of sleeping as a result of this and doing nothing will only make it worse. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As irritating as this can be, there are ways to resolve your seasonal allergies without having to forgo the use of your CPAP machine for a night (which is NOT recommended as this can interfere with your CPAP therapy). Many over the counter medicines can be quite helpful in relieving the effects of seasonal allergies, including nasal sprays to help clear your airway. Be sure to seek advice from your doctor if the problem persists. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As always, be sure to practice good sleep hygiene. Stick to the same bedtime every night, turn off the electronics at least an hour before you go to bed and practice good diet and exercise throughout the daytime. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
Learn moreWhat if I don't like my machine or mask can I exchange it?
wp:paragraph So you’ve been using your brand new CPAP mask for a few days now and you realize that it’s just not right for you. It’s not fitting you properly no matter how many times you have tried to adjust it, it feels uncomfortable and you just resent the fact that you are stuck with this thing for a long time. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3680,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph As you know, CPAP masks come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Just some of these include: the full face mask, the mask that just covers your nose and mouth, and the mask with the piece that just fits under your nose. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Maybe you feel claustrophobic in the full face mask, or the nose piece will just not stay in place. Either way, you know that you cannot keep going with your current mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Luckily, most places that sell CPAP masks are very accommodating and will let you return or exchange a mask that may not work for you, and do their best to help you find a mask that suits your needs. Usually there is little to no charge, as long as you do so sooner rather than later. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are just starting to use a CPAP machine for the first time, then be prepared for a bit of a “trial and error” period for your mask. Because of the wide variety of masks out there, you may find that the type of mask you purchased originally may not be the right one for you. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Also: there are some places that will let you try out a CPAP mask for a week (without having to buy it) in order to help you determine if it works best for you. Your doctor should have a good idea as to where you can go for this type of service. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Try to give yourself a full week of wearing the new CPAP mask before you decide whether or not you really like it. And no matter what, be sure you are informed of the company’s return policy BEFORE you make the purchase. Keep any and all receipts or invoices for the CPAP mask as this will be required for the return. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you’re in need of a new mask, be sure to check out papsmart.com as we have a few of our masks on sale right now for a limited time! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
Learn moreBuilding your CPAP support team
wp:paragraph There’s no question that starting to use a CPAP machine for the first time can be very overwhelming. And many first time CPAP users often give up on their device or take a long time to adjust to it. As underrated as this may sound, many CPAP users underestimate the value of having a support team on their side. It is easy to think that something like a CPAP machine will be simple and easy to use, however many people quickly realize that a CPAP machine is actually more complex than it may seem. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3691,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Using the CPAP machine itself is new and different. You will have to get used to sleeping with a mask worn across your face every night, something that you will likely have never experienced before. It’s easy to just give up on the machine right away when you get frustrated. Then this leads to your sleep apnea symptoms getting worse, and giving you a not so great quality of life. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Aside from all this, having a support team helps with the little things related to your CPAP machine, such as the cleaning process, recommendations of the best parts for your machine and questions about things like insurance for your CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So who exactly might be involved in your support team? /wp:paragraph wp:list Close family and friends: these are the people who are with you every day and will likely be the first that you turn to in a time of need. While they may not be CPAP users, they may be your face of encouragement when the machine gets you down Other patients who use a CPAP machine: as great as your family and friends will be, they are not the ones using the CPAP machine. By reaching out to other people who are in your position, it is helpful to know that you are not alone in this journey and they will understand what you are going through and may be able to offer some advice or support. There are many online forums dedicated to CPAP patients, or there may be a support group in your area A medical professional that you trust: this is incredibly important as they make the medical decisions that affect your lifestyle and you need to be able to be involved, and speak up when there is an issue /wp:list wp:paragraph This is why connecting with other CPAP users and medical professionals can be helpful so that you have reassurance that you are not alone in all of this. Your doctor will know of any support groups in your area or ways to connect with other people who use a CPAP machine. Also, don’t be afraid to look right in front of you to your own friends and family members who want the best for you. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
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Are Sleep Apnea Machines Loud?
wp:paragraph Perhaps a better question is will noise from a CPAP machine wake someone up or keep them or their loved ones awake. In short - no. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A CPAP machine is a device that provides Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (hence the acronym). This air pressure is the best known treatment for sleep apnea and snoring. Snoring and sleep apnea are caused by the airway collapsing or being blocked and the air pressure helps keep it clear. In many patients, it makes the difference between a good nights sleep and a fitful restless one. Many people consider the machine to be their sleep savior. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph What causes the sounds when using a CPAP machine? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 1 - The motor. A CPAP works on the same principle as a vacuum cleaner so has a similar sound but much quieter. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 2 - The sound of air forced through the openings in the tubes. Air makes more sound as it moves faster and smaller tubes create more pressure and more sound. The pressure is what is needed for a CPAP machine to work properly so reducing this is not an option. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 3 - The mask can cause some sound. Again, it is the sound of the air being forced through it. Or it is the air escaping the mask. The masks are designed to allow air to leave as the patient breathes out. If air leaves where it is supposed to, there is less sound. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 4 - Natural breathing. Your breath pushes against the air coming in and creates a sound. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There is a difference between noise and sound. Noise is confused changes in sound. The sound from a CPAP machine is continuous and it is changes in sound levels that tend to wake us up. CPAP sound is continuous white noise. Your breathing is what causes any variation in sound. This creates a soft rhythmic sound that is quite soothing to many people. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Human beings are built to be aware of changes in sound but comfortable with continuous sounds like these. Some people like to imagine the sounds they hear are the sounds of breath (which they are) or waves from the ocean. Breath and waves are soothing. These can work to help lull them to sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Some of the older machines were loud which is why some people still hold on to the belief they are noisy. Sound is created by the fan in the machine but this can be accentuated by forcing the air through a tube - thus creating noise. New fans are quieter and the machines are engineered deliberately to be quiet. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Some masks are louder than others. Typically those with less room for the air to move through create more sound. A reputable mask supplier can explain the features and sound levels coming from the various alternatives. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Another noise associated with a machine can be air escaping from a leaky, poorly fitted air mask. This is easily fixed and is not really CPAP noise but an easily fixed side effect. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So the sound of the machine is nominal and not a problem in most cases. The benefits of the machine for most people far outweigh any "noise" issues. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If someone is very, very sound sensitive, there are still simple earplugs that some people use. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
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Is a CPAP machine covered by healthcare?
wp:paragraph What is CPAP? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, often just called CPAP, is a system that uses light pressure to help keep a person's airways open, particularly at night. It is typically used by those people who have breathing issues, including sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The CPAP machine can include a mask that fits over your mouth and nose to prevent your airways from closing while you sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Costs of a CPAP machine /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph One issue with the machine is that it can be expensive. For Ontario residents however, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has a program called the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) which can offset some of the costs associated with various machines, including CPAP. ADP will pay 75% of their approved price of a machine, and you will need to cover the other 25%. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Other provinces offer their own level of funding. For example, Saskatchewan provides the CPAP systems but users need to buy their own mask, the humidifier and any other accessories needed. In Manitoba, approved CPAP systems, including the unit itself, the mask, and accessories, are provided by the province. Other provinces, such as Alberta, offer funds for CPAP therapy for eligible seniors with specific income thresholds. Other provinces offer a limited amount of funding for CPAP machines. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph At a national level, some Veteran Affairs Canada and Non Insured Health Benefits funding may be available for those who are eligible. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Who can apply to CPAP funding programs? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Any resident provincial with a valid health card in their name who has doctor-diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea and who meets all other eligibility criteria can apply to CPAP funding programs. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph You may be required to attend a sleep clinic to verify our eligibility. Your sleep physician and clinic staff will determine the type of equipment you need. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Can your personal health insurance company cover the remaining CPAP costs? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Many insurance companies will cover the remaining expenses of obtaining a CPAP machine. Contact your insurance agent for more information. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph What equipment and supplies does a person need? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A CPAP system can consist of the some or all of the following items: /wp:paragraph wp:list The actual CPAP device A heated humidifier A mask and related head gear Tubing Carrying case Caps and filters Power cord Instruction manual /wp:list wp:paragraph If you need other parts that are not included as part of the system, you may need to pay for those costs yourself or through your insurance. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph What happens when you need to replace your CPAP equipment? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Some provinces, such as Ontario, may contribute funds towards replacing your equipment when it no longer works, cannot be repaired, and has past the warranty date. Note that you still need to meet the necessary eligibility requirements. /wp:paragraph
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