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Getting the Most Out of Your CPAP Supplies

Cleaning Tips For Your CPAP Mask

wp:paragraph Take a look at your CPAP mask. You wear it every day, but have you ever thought about what it is made of? Generally, your mask cushion is made of silicon, which is a gentle material that usually does not irritate your skin. But that softer material also means that it has a shorter lifespan. With proper care and cleaning, you can extend that lifespan. Here are the suggested ways to clean your CPAP mask: /wp:paragraph wp:list Make sure you wash your mask every day to remove oil buildup, dust, and other residue. Use warm water and a mild, unscented soap. You can buy wipes and detergents made specifically for your CPAP mask. Rinse with warm water. Let your mask air dry either on a paper towel or a clean cloth. Do not place in direct sunlight because this will cause the silicone to break down faster. Do not wash in your dishwasher. Your mask also needs a heavy duty cleaning once a week. Soak in a solution of 3 parts water and 1 part vinegar. Rinse in distilled water and dry as specified above. Don’t forget about the other parts of your mask! Wash your head gear and chinstraps when needed in warm, unscented, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly, and air dry away from the sun. Never use the washing machine or dryer for cleaning these parts. To avoid excessive buildup of oils and residue and to minimize the breakdown of the silicone, wash your face well before using your mask, and do not apply moisturizers at night. Of course, at some point your mask will need to be replaced. Check the recommendations about the suggested replacement schedule, and keep an eye on the integrity of your mask for the actual need. Typically, you will need to replace the cushions once or twice a month, and your mask between 3 and 6 months. /wp:list wp:paragraph Not only will following these tips make your mask last longer, it will also help keep it working as well as possible. If you have any questions about your overall sleep health, check in with your doctor. Be prepared, and stay he /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph

Integrating CPAP Into Your Nightly Routine

wp:paragraph Do you have sleep apnea? Then you know how important it is to get a good night’s sleep. Sure, it is one thing to get a CPAP machine – it keeps your airways open when you sleep – but there is another significant factor involved in your treatment: how to integrate your CPAP therapy into your nightly routine successfully. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Wearing a full or partial mask that is connected by tubes to a machine can take some getting used to. But developing a stable routine will help ensure that you get used to your machine and get that much needed quality rest.  How can you do this? Here are four ways to make that happen: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Your CPAP machine: If you want to sleep well with a CPAP machine, then your machine needs to be in great condition. Keep your machine and accessories clean. If you have a humidifier, then empty the chamber and dry it out thoroughly. Store in a safe place until the next use. Your room: A comfy sleep needs a comfy room. Make your bed so that it looks inviting. Use dark or blackout shades to encourage sleep. Keep your room slightly cool. Use comfortable pillows and the right mattress for your preference. Your lifestyle: What you do during the day can affect your sleep. Make sure you get plenty of exercise and outdoor time, eat a well-balanced diet, and avoid caffeine and alcohol – especially right before bedtime. You: Yes, you are the biggest factor in your ability to integrate CPAP into your nightly routine. First, that means following the above three points to create a healthy lifestyle. Using your CPAP every time you sleep is also a must. Next, avoid using screens and mobile devices while in bed. Create a quiet bedtime routine, such as reading or meditating, to get yourself in the right mindset. /wp:list wp:paragraph It can be a little difficult getting used to a CPAP machine while you sleep, but with some effort and routine it can be done. Take your time and find what works for you, and get back to great sleeps and better health again.Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph

To Humidify or Not to Humidify?

wp:paragraph If you use a CPAP machine, take this quick quiz – do any of these sound familiar? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph My CPAP machine: /wp:paragraph wp:list Makes me sneeze. Gives me a dry mouth. Makes my nasal passages burn. Gives me either a stuffy or runny nose. Has an empty water chamber well before I wake up. /wp:list wp:paragraph If you have answered yes to these questions at any time during your use of a CPAP machine, then there is one answer: you need a humidifier. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your CPAP machine can only work if you can breathe easily through your nose or mouth. But if either your nose or mouth becomes too dry, then you could wake up early. If your body produces mucous to try and combat the dryness, then you could get a stuffed nose and wake up. If you have a cold or suffer from allergies, then these issues only become worse. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your nasal passages and airways need a certain amount of humidity to work as well as possible. For example, if the humidity in your CPAP drops below about 30%, then your nasal passages will start to produce moisture to get to the amount it wants – but that leads to mucous and a stuffy nose. Then there is the opposite problem – too much humidity. This can cause condensation in your tubing and affect the functioning of your machine. That, in turn, will affect the quality of your sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Breathing in adequately humidified air can minimize or even resolve these issues. While humidifying your room with a general household humidifier does have an effect, it will not effectively address this issue. Getting a CPAP humidifier is key. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your CPAP machine has accessories, such as a humidifier, that can help you get the right amount of humidity. Consider CPAP with humidity and bring back better sleeps! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph

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

Vacationing 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

Choosing 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

Life 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

The 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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