News
Which CPAP Mask Is The Right Mask For Me?
wp:paragraph When you have sleep apnea, your doctor may prescribe a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine as a form of treatment. For it to work effectively, you need to use it every night and be comfortable when wearing it. And part of that entails choosing the right mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph But with so many different styles, shapes, and sizes of mask to choose from, how do you know where to start? It really is a matter of knowing what types of mask are out there and then trying different ones until you find the best one for yourself. Here are the basics of the three main types of masks that are available: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Nasal pillow mask: Because of their simple and small design, these masks tend to be a very popular choice. It rests on your upper lip to blow gently pressurized air through two soft tubes that are inserted into your nostrils. Straps go around your head to secure the pillow mask in place. Nasal mask: These triangular masks sit over the bridge of your nose down to your upper lip. Because they come in many sizes and fits, they too are popular with CPAP users. Full face mask: As the name suggests, this type covers the nose, mouth, and either all or part of the face. It is secured with straps at the side. Some versions cover the mouth but also have nasal prongs like the nasal pillow mask. /wp:list wp:paragraph Whichever type of mask you choose, always take the size, fit, and comfort of the mask into serious consideration. You don’t have to stay with one mask if you don’t like it or if it is not improving your sleep apnea. Take the time to find the right mask for you, and ask questions of your technician to guide you in the right direction. Don't be afraid to change your mind – your sleep depends on the perfect mask! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All CPAP Masks On Sale This Week - Start Shopping Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreGetting ready for 2016: New Year’s Resolution tips for CPAP Users
wp:paragraph Happy 2016! The New Year signifies a fresh start and a new beginning for many people. Some try to exercise more and eat better, others simply strive to be more open minded in their lives. If you use a CPAP machine, the New Year can also be a perfect time to step it up in terms of your parts replacement schedule, or improving your overall sleep habits. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3665,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph As big as New Year’s Resolutions are for making improvements for people, prioritizing sleep is incredibly important to your overall health, especially for those who use a CPAP machine. Not only does this improve your experience using the machine, but getting a good night of sleep also affects how you function during the daytime. So the start of the New Year is the perfect time to take advantage of making positive changes to your overall sleep health. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are some tips for CPAP users to consider for the New Year: /wp:paragraph wp:list Has your bed time fluctuated over the holidays? This happens to a lot of people over the holidays with many late nights. It is best to go to bed at the same time each night, and wake up at the same time each day (or at least very close to it) Take some time to sit down and set your parts replacement schedule for the year. In order to keep your CPAP machine and its parts in perfect working condition, they will need to be replaced or upgraded on a regular basis. This is a good opportunity to take inventory of what you have, and what you may need in the coming future, so you can budget it in too (as it’s no secret that some important CPAP parts can break the bank). Avoid having heavy meals close to bedtime, and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages too late in the daytime. Avoid the use of electronic devices too close to bedtime (yes that includes the TV) If you aren’t doing so already, be sure to make a habit of cleaning your machine and its parts on a regular basis (at least once a week) Practice good diet and exercise. Even though many people may already have this as their New Years resolution, this can work wonders in helping you to sleep better at night /wp:list
Learn more
Five signs that it's time for a new CPAP mask
wp:paragraph So you’ve been using your CPAP mask for a quite a while and you’re finding that it is starting to wear down. Believe it or not, it is very important to be aware of when to replace your CPAP mask. Just like any piece of clothing that you own, it can get worn out over time and using an old mask that is falling apart mask will only do more harm than good for your CPAP therapy. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are five things to look out for as to when it’s time to invest in a new CPAP mask: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Are you waking up with sores on your face? If so, your mask is wearing down and you need to get a new one. A proper fitting mask should not be hurting you in any way; it should feel comfortable on your face. Are you finding small tears in the mask, the cushioning or even the tubing? Needless to say, it’s time for a new mask at this point. Facial oils tend to break down the material of the mask overtime, thus the need for a new one. If you feel just as tired as you did before you started your CPAP therapy, than likely the mask is not doing its job anymore. Be sure to check it carefully for any abnormal tears or worn-out parts as just one part of your CPAP mask wearing down can negatively affect your CPAP therapy. Have you been neglecting to keep your mask and its parts clean on a regular basis? This is very common for a lot of first-time CPAP users. The key to prolonging the life of your mask is to keep it clean on a regular basis, otherwise it can wear down faster and you will just have to replace your CPAP mask more often than necessary. Are you finding it more difficult to properly secure your mask on at night (compared to in the past?) If so, your mask has worn down and you need to replace it. Prolonged use can cause the mask parts to stretch out and wear down and it will not fit you as well as it used to. /wp:list wp:paragraph Shop now and save up to 50% off our entire inventory! /wp:paragraph
Learn more