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All About CPAP Hoses
wp:paragraph About CPAP Hoses /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are several components that comprise a basic CPAP machine, and one of those is the tubing, or hose. The hose is the piece that connects the machine to the mask to deliver the pressurized air that treats your sleep apnea. The proper hose will deliver the correct amount of pressure that doesn’t just meet your sleep apnea needs, but will minimize leaks and excess moisture buildup as well. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Types of CPAP Hoses /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Did you know that there isn’t just one type of CPAP tubing? You can choose from various types that work well with your specific CPAP machine. More modern CPAP tubing can have specialized components, such as heating elements. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are three main types of available CPAP hoses: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Standard CPAP hoses: As the name suggests, this is the most common type of tubes. It is meant for CPAP machines that do not have a humidifier. They typically measure 22mm in diameter. Slim CPAP hoses: If you prefer a lighter tube that responds more naturally to your sleep movements, then a slim tube might be for you. They measure 15mm in diameter. Heated CPAP hoses: These tubes are meant to be used in conjunction with a CPAP humidifier. The heated tubes help make sure that the air that was warmed by the humidifier does not cool off before it gets into your airways. /wp:list wp:paragraph Maintaining Your CPAP Hose /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As with most things, you need to maintain your CPAP tubing so that it operates as well as possible. This means regular, proper cleaning. To do so, use warm water and a mild, liquid soap to hand wash. Air dry away from sunlight. It is recommended that you clean once a week, but more if it looks like it needs it, or if you have pets or live in a dustier location. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph However, cleaning can only do so much. Nightly use will affect the integrity of your tubing. This means you should replace your tubing about once every three months. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Remember better, cleaner tubing will mean better sleep /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreVacationing with CPAP - What You Need To Know
wp:paragraph When you go on vacation, what do you pack? Seasonal clothes, travel documents, extra cash, and your CPAP machine. Yes, that wasn’t a mistake. If you suffer from sleep apnea, then taking your CPAP machine with you on vacation is important. After all, don’t you want to be as alert and fresh on your vacation as you are when at home? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Travelling with your CPAP machine takes only a bit of simple planning. Here is what you need to know to make it pain-free go smoothly: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Prescription: Not everyone has seen a CPAP machine. To avoid issues at security checkpoints, bring a copy of your prescription to indicate what the machine is and why you are bringing it with you. Air travel: If you are travelling by plane, contact your airline to see what their policies are regarding CPAP machines. You need to know if they allow them on flights. Ask for written approval from their medical services department and keep it with you at all times. If you have a longer or night flight, book your seat by a power source. Storage: Don’t pack your CPAP with your checked luggage. Not only could you need it during the flight, but it could get damaged or lost during transport. Always pack it in your carry-on. Power on: Do you know if your destination has the right plug-ins for your CPAP? Bring an extra cord plus an adapter to ensure that you can actually use your CPAP on the plane or at your lodging. Roughing it: Not every vacation is meant to have the creature comforts of home. If you are planning on camping or using an RV, you can choose to purchase a smaller, travel size CPAP machine. It works just as well and takes up less space. Pack extras: You may know where your CPAP vendor is in your town, but do you want to search for one while on vacation? To avoid this, pack extra supplies in case something fails or breaks. Be prepared so you can be prepared to relax! /wp:list wp:paragraph Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreChoosing the Right CPAP Mask
wp:paragraph CPAP masks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and prices. But with choice comes a dilemma: which mask is the right one for you? Here are some common questions and answers that may help: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Q. How do I choose the right mask? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A. Ultimately, it comes to research. Research as many different masks and styles as you can. Ask friends and family that use CPAP what they like and why. Ask your doctor if there are specific recommendations based on your pressures. Also, think about your face shape and features. Do you wear a beard? Do you have smaller or larger nose? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Q. What are the differences between a full face mask, a nasal mask, and a nasal pillow? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A. A full face mask covers both your mouth and nose, a nasal mask covers just your nose, and a nasal pillow sits at the entrance of your nostrils. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The right mask for you depends on different factors, such as the dimensions of your face, whether or not you have facial hair, and if you tend towards being claustrophobia. Each type of mask has its own benefits. When you try on masks, let the supplier know what your preferences are to help in the process. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Q. I tend to move around at night. What mask should I get? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A. Consider either a full face or a nasal mask. These types help ensure that the air gets into your airways. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Q. I don’t like the feeling of having my face covered while I sleep. What should I do? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A. Because it is the smallest, and lightest on your face, a nasal pillow mask is your best bet. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Q. I have a beard, what should I do? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A. For the best seal, opt for a nasal mask rather than full face mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop CPAP Masks and Accessories Now! /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
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Five Steps To Selecting the Right CPAP
After you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor probably prescribed a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine to help you sleep at night. This machine sends a gentle stream of air through your airways to keep them open while you sleep. But there isn’t just one single type of CPAP machine. You need to choose masks, tubes, the actual machine, as well as any upgrades you can optionally add. So how do you find the one that’s perfect for you? Below are five steps to help you select the right one: Get a prescription: The first thing you need to do is get a prescription. This means being tested and diagnosed with sleep apnea by a medical professional. This typically involves a medical exam and most likely a sleep test. Your prescription will indicate the type of sleep device – such as a CPAP – that you need, as well as the proper pressure level for you. Shop around: While you may be inclined to get your CPAP from the clinic where you had your sleep test, your best bet is to shop around. But before you start, ask your insurance company about reimbursement. Then, talk to different suppliers about their prices, features, and options. If searching online, look for a company based in Canada and make sure they ask for your prescription. Find the right mask: After you have your prescription and have purchased your machine with the correct pressure, you need to find a mask that fits both properly and comfortably. You may need to try different brands and styles until you find the one you like. You could want several masks so that you can rotate among them to minimize pressure and irritation. The little extras: Some users are content with a basic CPAP while others prefer to have some extras. These can include a humidifier to alleviate dryness, battery backup, a device to reduce condensation in the tubes, or hose extensions for greater mobility. Ask your insurance company in case you can be reimbursed, but if not, ask vendors if they have deals or promotions. It could make your CPAP experience that much better. PAP therapy types: Even with the best CPAP, you just may not be able to find it comfortable enough to use. Instead, you may need to look into other machines such as APAP or BiPap to get the help you need. Save Big During the PAPSmart Fall Sale
Learn moreThe importance of cleaning your CPAP Mask
You’ve probably done a lot of spring cleaning over these past few months. Many people with CPAP machines tend to neglect the regular cleaning of their machines, or they only attempt this once every few weeks. Regular and thorough cleaning of your CPAP machine and parts is essential to ensuring it lasts as long as possible and that it is always in top working condition. If you are not doing so already, it is important to develop a routine for cleaning your CPAP machine, using these helpful tips: Shop Comfortable CPAP Masks Wipe down the mask every day, especially the parts that come in contact directly with your skin, such as the cushions. Your facial oils can wear the mask down faster, resulting in you having to replace it sooner than necessary. Simply use wipes, or a warm washcloth with mild soap. It takes less than 5 minutes. At least once a week, be sure to give your mask, tubing, headgear and your humidifier (if you have one) a good bath. Simply wash them in your bathroom sink filled with a mild detergent (dish detergent is perfectly fine). Give them a good scrub for about 5 minutes and let the parts air dry for a while. You can wipe them down with a towel as well if you prefer Clean the filter to your CPAP machine at least once a week. Just rinse it under water, making sure to rinse out any dust and wipe it down with a towel. Remember that CPAP filters need to be replaced at least once a month in order to run smoothly Your CPAP machine itself doesn’t need as much attention as the other parts, but it’s good to wipe it down once every few weeks, even with just a wipe. Just don’t overdo it with the washing, otherwise you run the risk of the machine not working as well. You wouldn’t think of using dirty dishes that haven’t been washed in days, so would you do the same for your CPAP machine? Be sure to check out papsmart.com for CPAP machine cleaning supplies, including wipes and a travel spray. Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com
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Sleep Apnea and Seasonal Allergies
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com
Learn moreWhat if I don't like my machine or mask can I exchange it?
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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! Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com
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I am afraid I won't be able to sleep with a mask on my face
The idea of the CPAP mask is a common anxiety amongst newly diagnosed sleep apnea patients. Having to wear this seemingly huge device across your face that exerts controlled air pressure while you sleep is something most sleep apnea patients are not thrilled with at first. Fear not, this is a common concern amongst many new CPAP machine users and probably one of the biggest questions that doctors and sleep specialists are asked by their patients. If you’ve never had to sleep with a mask over your face then this will take some getting used to, no matter how open to the idea you may be. A first step in this is educating yourself as to the different types of masks out there. The three main types of masks for CPAP machines include: Nasal masks, which go over your nose A “nasal pillow” mask that just fits under your nose A full face mask that covers your mouth and nose The type of mask you use will depend on what feels comfortable to you. For many people who are just starting out with a CPAP machine, it may be a case of trial and error with the masks, and that is okay. Once you find the mask that best fits you and your lifestyle, you will need to stay consistent with it every night in order for it to finally feel like a part of your routine. Shop Comfortable CPAP Masks Here are a few tips that may help you get used to your CPAP mask: Try wearing just the mask for a few hours during the daytime while you work around the house, watch TV etc. just so you can get used to the idea of the mask across your face. Know what your own comfort level is. If you tend to be very claustrophobic, then the full face mask may not be for you. Similarly, those with a stronger case of sleep apnea may be better off starting with a full face mask Seek advice from your doctor or sleep specialist: they will know all about the type of sleep apnea that you have and are very well educated as to what is out there in terms of CPAP masks Many people who regularly use a CPAP have consistently raved about how much their sleep improved from continued use of their CPAP mask. So while it may sound like a lot to digest at first, just remember the end result: a better night’s sleep. Masks of all types are available on papsmart.com. Shop and save on all cpap machines and accessories at Papsmart.com
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