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Need to Replace Some Parts of your CPAP Machine This Summer?
If you’ve been using a CPAP machine for some time, then you may know that like anything else, some of the parts wear out eventually and will need to be replaced on a regular basis, no matter how often you clean them. It may seem like a lot and it may seem costly at first (unless you get some or all of it covered by insurance), but remember that this is a very important investment in your sleep, which is an essential part of your overall well being. Here are a few CPAP parts that can wear down quicker in the summer months: The mask cushioning and/or headgear: A good rule of thumb: if your CPAP mask no longer seals properly, it’s time to replace it. Your facial oils, combined with excessive sweat in the summer can cause these parts to break down a little quicker. In order to prolong the life of these parts, make sure you are cleaning your mask on a daily basis. Using a CPAP machine with a mask that is not sealing properly will cause it to not work to its full potential, and you will not sleep well as a result. Tubing/Hose: Be sure to clean the hose or tubing of your CPAP machine regularly to remove any mineral buildup, and check it for any cracks or tears. Even the smallest of deficiencies can compromise your CPAP therapy. Luckily, they can last up to a year if cleaned regularly. CPAP Filters: Filters need replacing the most often in your CPAP machine, especially in the summer months. Summer brings an increase of pollen in the air, which will be caught in the filters. You may want to change it more frequently in the summer months, as the CPAP machine will not function at its full potential if the filters are too dirty. Don’t forget to clean the parts of your CPAP mask regularly! This will extend the life of the parts. Be sure to visit Shop CPAP supplies and accessories for your CPAP parts replacement needs.
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Why CPAP Users Need a Support Team
wp:paragraph Starting a new journey with a CPAP machine can be challenging and terrifying. While you may feel excited to finally get your sleep apnea under control, you may not know much about the device, and learning to use it properly may take some time. You may also feel overwhelmed at the fact that you have to use this machine in the first place, and get used to sleeping with it each night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph One of the best things you can do for yourself is to establish a support team. Having people who support you and are there to help you is the key to success when you are on your CPAP journey. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your CPAP support team may consist of the following people; /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Friends and Family /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph While your loved ones may not be going through the same thing you are, don’t rule them out from your support team. These people know you the best and can lend a listening ear and provide words of encouragement. Also, don’t rule out your spouse, they are the ones sleeping next to you each night, and having them on your side can be crucial to successful CPAP therapy. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your trusted medical professionals /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Keeping a good relationship and open communication with your doctor and/or your medical team is important. They make important decisions with your medical care, so it is important that you are involved and you are able to speak up when there is an issue. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Other CPAP patients /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Finding other CPAP users to connect with can be very helpful and can be a great outlet to ask any questions. They can also empathize with some of the more difficult and challenging parts of using a CPAP machine. There are many support groups out there for CPAP users, some that meet virtually and others that meet in person, your doctor may be able to recommend something that is local. There are also many online forums out there for CPAP users, and this can be a great place to go if you are not comfortable with face-to-face interaction. /wp:paragraph
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Using CPAP Machine in the Hot Weather
wp:paragraph Summer may officially be around the corner, but for many places in the world (especially in some parts of Canada right now), the hot and sunny weather had already arrived in full force and many of the days are long and warm. While this may get you excited for all of the good things about summer, you may be dreading the sleepless nights that come with the hot and sticky weather, especially if you suffer from sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph No one enjoys the uncomfortable feeling of trying to sleep when it’s hot, especially if you wear a CPAP machine at night. While you may be tempted to skip your CPAP therapy just for a night or two, don’t do this! Not only will your sleep apnea symptoms get worse, you will have even more trouble sleeping than you did before, which can make you feel tired and groggy during the day. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Six tips for surviving the heat with your CPAP machine: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true,"type":"1"} Keep your bedroom cool: use a fan if necessary to properly circulate the air in the room and consider using blackout curtains to trap the cool air in the bedroom. Limit any excessive moisture in the bedroom: warm weather only adds moisture to the air, which can make sleeping very uncomfortable. If your bedroom is humid, consider getting a dehumidifier for the room. If your CPAP machine has a humidifier feature, you may want to turn this down for the warmer months. Clean your CPAP machine regularly: not doing so can lead to mold growth and the oils and sweat from your body can cause the parts of the mask to break down quicker than normal. Any padding with your mask may also need to be replaced a little more frequently. Check out CPAP Supplies and Accessories - PAPSmart Canada for replacement of your CPAP parts. Keep your sleep schedule consistent every night and don’t deviate from your sleep routine! Now is more important than ever to practice proper sleep hygiene. Stick to healthy diet and exercise habits during the daytime: also be sure to practice safe sun habits such as wearing sunscreen. Speak to your doctor for tips if you are still having trouble sleeping in the hot weather at night. /wp:list
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The Importance of Cleaning Your CPAP Device
wp:paragraph If you suffer from sleep apnea and you regularly use a CPAP Machine at night, you may be used to the fact that you have to keep your device clean on a regular basis. Not sticking to a regular cleaning routine for the various parts of your CPAP Device can result in the parts breaking down and wearing out much more quickly than they are supposed to. Having to replace some of these parts can be extremely costly. Worse, your CPAP therapy may not work to its full potential if the machine parts go too long in between cleanings. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph However, if you take the time to clean your CPAP machines and its parts of dust and facial oils, the parts can last you quite a long time before requiring replacement and overall, the CPAP therapy will work the way it’s supposed to. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How often do I need to clean my CPAP device? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph CPAP Devices and their parts can get dirty very quickly as a result of dust and facial oils. Most parts will benefit from a clean at least once a week, however some parts such as the headgear cushions, tubing and humidifier chamber may need to be cleaned daily, especially if they are touching your face. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A few tips for cleaning your CPAP device and parts /wp:paragraph wp:list Check the manufacturers warranty for specific cleaning instructions Take the mask apart to give it the best clean Hand wash the parts of your mask using lukewarm tap water, a soft bristle brush and a mild soap Do not use any soaps containing harsh chemicals such as bleach or alcohol. A mild medical grade soap will do just fine (some mask manufacturers may offer a cleaning solution for their CPAP devices) Do not wash your mask parts in a washing machine or dishwasher and do not leave them in direct sunlight to dry Wash your face before using the mask in order to keep it clean and prolong its life If you notice any parts with cracks or other deficiencies, be sure to have the part replaced as soon as possible! /wp:list
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Six Ways to Give Your Sleep Routine a Little Spring Cleaning
wp:image {"id":6961,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Now that the snow has gone away and the days of warm weather are just around the corner, you may be gearing up to do a little spring cleaning in your life. Why not do some spring cleaning with your sleep routine as well? There are many reasons as to why your sleep routine may be feeling a bit off these days. Maybe you are tired of the pandemic and can’t stop thinking about all of the news, maybe those spring allergies are starting to creep in, or maybe your body never fully adjusted from that spring forward time change that occurred a few weeks ago. With the following six tips, you can find yourself going into the warmer weather with a restful sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true,"type":"1"} Turn your bedroom into a sleep only zone; avoid using your bedroom for anything other than sleeping and keep the room cool, dark and quiet. Blackout curtains and a noise machine can be helpful with this. Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it; this way your body knows to wind down and prepare for a good night’s sleep. And make sure you go to bed around the same time every night. Avoid technology for at least an hour before bedtime; that blue light effect from your phone does not have a good effect on your REM sleep cycle, so it’s best to put your devices away and read a book instead. Bonus tip: leave your devices to charge in a different room so you are not tempted to look at it. Be careful of what you eat or drink before bedtime; avoid alcohol, heavy meals or any caffeinated drinks for at least a few hours before you go to bed, as these are all known to keep you awake. Try a cup of herbal tea instead. Take advantage of the sun; Now that the weather is getting warmer, try and get outside for a little Vitamin D during the daytime. This has been known to do wonders for your body’s internal clock and your REM sleep cycle. Get in some exercise during the daytime; Although this may seem more difficult right now with the pandemic, even 30 minutes of daily walking around the neighborhood has been known to help you sleep better at night. /wp:list
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wp:paragraph If you have Sleep Apnea, you may be worried about CPAP and COVID19. Take a read below for tips and info. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Does having Sleep Apnea make me high risk for COVID19? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There is no evidence linking sleep apnea with coronavirus risk. According to the centre for disease control (CDC), People who have a higher risk for severe illness from the coronavirus include: /wp:paragraph wp:list 65 years of age or older Those with serious underlying medical conditions. Those who are immuno-compromised Those who have been close contact with another person who has the coronavirus. /wp:list wp:paragraph What should I do if I have symptoms (should I use my CPAP while sick)? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you have symptoms of the coronavirus, you should isolate yourself in a separate bedroom and use a separate bathroom, if available. In this “recovery room,” you should continue to use your CPAP while you sleep alone. Evidence suggests that use of CPAP is more likely to produce large droplets (>10 μm) rather than aerosols, and that these are largely confined to within one meter due to their large mass.This suggests that the risk of droplet dispersion as a result of use of CPAP is not a major issue, and is probably no different than any COVID-19 patient in the who is coughing or sneezing without CPAP. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Any extra cleaning tips? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The centre for disease control (CDC) recommends cleaning and disinfecting your medical equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The directions for CPAP masks and hoses normally include regular cleaning with soap and water. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The CDC also recommends that you clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your household. This includes door knobs, light switches and handles. Learn more from the CDC about how to clean and disinfect your household. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn more about CPAP and COVID19: Your Questions AnsweredFestive Season 2020 - CPAP Tips
wp:paragraph It's going to be a very different festive season this year. Not as much cooking and shopping and going out to holiday gatherings as we're used to. While we can still find ways to have fun in our social bubbles, the stress of 2020 can also get exhausting. That's why getting enough quality sleep is more important than ever. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you use a CPAP machine to help address your sleep apnea, you may be inclined every so often to skip using it. After all, the 2020 holiday season could make you just want to slip quickly into bed for some sleep. But definitely don't fall into that habit! No matter how enticing your bed may be, always take a few minutes to set up your CPAP machine for use at night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here's why... /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph You may think that missing one night here and there, especially during the holidays, won't really make a difference in the long run. But what you are doing is setting up the foundation for the habit of not using your CPAP machine. When you don't use your machine - even for one night - you run the risk of having a poor quality sleep. As you gradually become more and more fatigued, you can increase your risks for irritability, headaches, forgetfulness, and even more serious issues such as heart attack or stroke. And more immediately, those headaches and fatigue will mean that you will have less fun during the holidays. And who wants that? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So even when you don't feel like it, always be sure to use your CPAP machine to encourage yourself to be the best version of you any time of the year. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn more about Festive Season 2020 - CPAP TipsAutumn Sleep Tips
wp:paragraph Autumn has arrived! That means crisp days and cozy, comfy sleeps. Or does it? For some people, autumn can means poor sleeps, and this can happen for various reasons. If you are one of these people, or if you just want to ensure restful nights, here are some autumn sleep tips to remember: /wp:paragraph wp:list Get outside: Autumn sees fewer hours of daylight. This lowers the amount of Vitamin D you need, which can leave you feeling even more tired than before. The simple solution is this: get outside! Go for a walk, a hike, or do some gardening, yardwork - anything that gets you into that much needed sunlight. And you get the added benefits of fresh air and sunshine. Stay cool: Yes, those cool days may make you crank up the heat in your home. But there's a problem with that. At night, warmer air can actually interfere with your sleep. Cooler indoor temperatures help you body fall asleep easier because it doesn't have so work as hard to cool itself down. So, the easy answer is: at night, turn down your thermostat! Be happy: Although this one can be a little harder to control, keeping a positive mood will help you fall asleep more easily. Or, if you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, your body will have more problems relaxing itself enough to encourage a quicker and deeper sleep. Try meditation, get exercise, and give yourself ample time to relax before bedtime. Happy slumbers! /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn more about Autumn Sleep TipsBack To School Season Sleep Tips
wp:paragraph Whether you are a parent, a student, a grandparent or a teacher, back to school time means a shift from a relaxed summer schedule to the regular school routine! If you had a great summer with plenty of downtime, then returning to school can be a bit of a shock. And those changes can affect a crucial component of your (or your child's) academic success: your sleep. So here are five tips to help you adjust back into your school routine and make sure you can focus on great sleeps: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Get used to the routine: Instead of cramming into a new sleep schedule, gradually adjust towards your school one. Slowly change your summertime sleep patterns until it comes close to your new one. Weekend = weekday: This can be a difficult one, especially for students, but try to keep your weekend sleep schedule as close to your weekday one as much as possible. Your body operates best with a routine! Put down the phone: It's hard to sleep when friends and classmates keep texting. So when you want to sleep, put that phone away in a different room so that you can focus on sleeping. Nutrition: Wings and chips are tasty, but too many treat foods will affect your ability to sleep. Limit the treats and the caffeine, especially later in the day. Make it relaxing: What helps with a good night's sleep? A comfy bedroom. Make sure your room is dark, quiet, and somewhat cool. This will encourage your body to sleep and stay asleep. Happy snoozing! /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
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