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5 Tips for New CPAP Users
wp:paragraph So you’ve just been diagnosed with sleep apnea and you’ve been told by your doctor that you have to use a CPAP mask every night, in order to treat this condition. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Needless to say, you’re probably feeling a little nervous and apprehensive about this and you’re worried about a number of things: is it worth it wearing that big mask? Will my partner still want to be intimate with me? Am I going to have to deal with red marks all over my face for the rest of my life? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Like any big change in life, it is normal to have apprehensions about this and it is okay to be worried about what is to come. But what is important it focusing on the positive aspects of this: in this case, your ability to get a much better sleep at night. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are five tips to help you adjust to your new CPAP mask: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Take your time selecting a mask! Most people who buy eye glasses don’t usually go with the first pair they see, they take their time to try on many pairs, until they find one that is just right. A tip from the Mayo clinic suggests that you place a new mask on your face without any straps. Once it feels comfortable, add the straps and then see how you feel. Try wearing just the mask around the house for a few hours to get used to it. If you still feel some anxiety, try to practice some relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing. Start small: if the idea of forcing air down your airway makes you cringe, try using your mask on the lowest air pressure setting to start, and increase it as you become more used to the mask. Keep moisturized! It is very common for CPAP users to experience a dry mouth or nose when they wake up, especially in the winter months. Let’s face it: it’s not a comfortable or pleasant feeling to have a dry mouth. Try to use a nasal spray before you go to bed, or think about getting a humidifier for your CPAP mask. If it feels weird at first, resist the urge to discontinue it after just one night. Remember that this is a device that could very well be saving your life, and your quality of sleep will get much better with time! Do not hesitate to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. /wp:list wp:paragraph View our NEW CPAP Packange Offer! Select a CPAP Machine + Mask & receive FREE SHIPPING! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreDaylight savings time and your CPAP mask
wp:paragraph Now that February has passed, we can now look forward to the snow melting and spring making its way into our lives. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3620,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph As great as this all sounds, early March also brings us the great Daylight Savings time change, where we set out clocks one hour ahead. For the average human being, this can wreak havoc on our sleep schedules. When you regularly use a CPAP mask, this time change can throw your sleep schedule off course even more. The CPAP therapy relies heavily on following a scheduled bed time and throwing that off can cause a rift in your sleep patterns, and it can also make you wake up feeling overtired and groggy in the morning. Coincidentally, the effects of untreated sleep apnea are similar to the effects that daylight savings time changes can create. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are some tips to overcome this change and embrace the longer days: /wp:paragraph wp:list Go to bed earlier. Even if it’s only 15 minutes earlier, it will still make a positive difference in your CPAP therapy. And you will wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start the day. Practice good sleep hygiene: avoid watching TV or using any electronics right before bedtime and stick to a routine. If you brush your teeth at the same time every night, keep this up, even if it doesn’t feel like it’s time for bed. Get some sunlight during the day. As bizarre as this may sound, this is something that will actually help your internal clock, which regulates your body’s sleep patterns. If you feel overtired in any way, do NOT drive or attempt to operate any heavy machinery. Statistics show that the rate for car accidents increases after the spring time change. The cause of these accidents? You guessed it: drowsy driving. /wp:list wp:paragraph As irritating as the time change may feel at first, have faith that you WILL adjust to it in no time and in just a week, it will feel like the clocks didn’t change at all. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop now and save up to 50% off our entire inventory! /wp:paragraph
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OSA and CSA: do you know the difference?
wp:paragraph We all know by now that the general definition of sleep apnea is when you stop breathing while you sleep. But did you know that sleep apnea actually comes in two different forms? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The two main types of sleep apnea are called Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). While they are both forms of sleep apnea, the cause for the pause in breathing is actually different, and they each have different characteristics associated with them. /wp:paragraph wp:list Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), the most common form of sleep apnea, occurs when your airway gets blocked, either completely or partially, causing you to stop breathing. When breathing resumes, there is often a loud gasp or snort, which can interfere with a deep sleep. It is often overweight, middle-aged men who get sleep apnea, especially this type. The CPAP machine, in addition to other lifestyle changes, is the best form of treatment for OSA. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) occurs when your brain doesn’t send the proper signals to the muscles that control your breathing. This is different from OSA as there is not a blockage in the airway, but a neurological issue that causes you to stop breathing in your sleep. CSA is often brought on by other medical conditions and it is less common than OSA. /wp:list wp:paragraph The main difference is that with OSA, the effort is made to try and inhale as you stop breathing, yet no air can get into the lungs. With CSA, no effort is made at all by the body to restart your breathing. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Experts also acknowledge that it is not uncommon to have both forms of sleep apnea. So this is why it is important to seek help from your doctor if you think you have either form of sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreIs it sleep apnea?
wp:paragraph When you hear from your partner that you have a snoring problem, it’s easy to think the worst. I have sleep apnea, I’ll have to wear that big ugly mask, my partner will never sleep with me again etc. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph However, snoring is just one symptom of sleep apnea, and just because you are a snorer does not automatically mean that you have sleep apnea. Close to 90 million Americans have night time snoring, but sleep apnea actually only affects about half of those people, according to the American Sleep Apnea Association. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3580,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph If you want the snoring to stop for the sake of both you and your partner, it is important to have an idea of whether your noise at night is just noise, or if it is something more serious. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are some factors that may determine whether or not you are at risk for sleep apnea: /wp:paragraph wp:list If you are choking or gasping for air in your sleep If you wake up feeling tired, and feel tired throughout the day If you feel restlessness at night If you are obese, middle-aged and/or male /wp:list wp:paragraph Whether or not you exert any of these symptoms, it does not hurt to make an appointment with your doctor. If you are not a likely candidate for sleep apnea, your doctor can help you to figure out if there is anything that can be done to curb your snoring at night, even if it’s just for the sake of your partner’s sanity. Even a lifestyle change like losing a little weight can go a long way. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are a likely candidate for sleep apnea, don’t fret. It is not the end of the world if you do have this condition. There are many options for treatment available that can give you an infinitely better quality of life and leave you feeling more rested and energised throughout the day. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop at Papsmart.com - The #1 Online CPAP Store. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.sleepapnea.org/is-it-snoring-or-sleep-apnea.html /wp:paragraph
Learn moreIntroducing the Z1: A new travel CPAP unit that will actually wow you.
wp:paragraph As great as your CPAP machine may be for when you sleep, it’s no secret that most machines are rather large and not the best travel partners. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Pack your bags and get ready to get off the grid. The Z1 Unplugged is a brand-new, smaller CPAP machine that is smaller, quieter and comes with everything you need for a perfect night’s sleep. For those that love to travel, this is already approved for air travel and it not big or clunky in any way. Just bring along your CPAP mask to go with it and you’re all set to get away. It also has a backlit, LCD display so you can still see how you’re sleeping, even when it’s dark. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3577,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph There are many features about this new machine that set it apart from other devices: /wp:paragraph wp:list It is very quiet: when in use, it makes only 26 decibles of sound, which makes it one of the quietest CPAP machines on the market Battery powered: the machine can operate for one full night without a cord, using a system called the PowerShell, which is an integrated battery that gives you a night of uninterrupted sleep. Extremely light: this is considered the lightest CPAP machine out there, weighing in at only 10 ounces. This makes it a fantastic machine for everyday use and is perfect for travelling. Data capable: the machine records all events and can track your sleep progress, even when you’re on the road. /wp:list wp:paragraph For more information about this machine and to purchase, visit PapSmart.com /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Order the Z1 Travel CPAP Machine NOW! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreWorking CPAP into your life: 10 tips to make it easier
wp:paragraph So you’ve just been diagnosed with sleep apnea and you have been told by your doctor that you have to use a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine in order to treat this condition. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This will be a bit of a change for your lifestyle and for your bedtime routine. You may feel embarrassed to have to wear this around your partner and you may feel like you’re that awkward kid with the braces in grade 7. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3571,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph However, the bottom line is this: the machine, as un-glamourous as it may be, could actually help in saving your life, and all in all, it will make your quality of life tremendously better. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are 10 tips to make the transition easier for integrating the CPAP machine into your sleep routine: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Think of it as a gift to your partner, who wants to sleep next to a loud snorer? This will help the snoring significantly. Learn everything you can about the machine so that it seems less intimidating. Choose the mask that’s right for YOU. There are many different types out there; it’s just about finding the right one. Keep the parts of the machine clean so that it works properly. Think about connecting with other sleep apnea sufferers who, like you, have to a CPAP machine each night. See if your doctor knows of any support groups or ways to connect with people going through the same thing as you. Think about making other lifestyle changes to make this easier, such as losing weight or quitting smoking. While it likely won’t cure the sleep apnea, it will make it much easier to deal with. Practice good sleep hygiene: avoid caffeine or large meals before bedtime, stick to a regular routine every night, and use the bed only for sleeping. Try to use earplugs to mask the sound of the machine so the noise doesn’t bother you. Use a humidifier to decrease dryness and skin irritation. Focus on the positive outcome of using the CPAP machine, and avoid thinking about the negative parts that may be prominent at this time. With time, you will get used to this and this will help you in the long run. /wp:list wp:paragraph Shop at Papsmart.com - The #1 Online CPAP Store. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_apnea.htm /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/features/cpap-machine /wp:paragraph
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Caffeine and Sleep: How much is Too Much?
wp:paragraph Ah coffee, most of us can’t live without it, and others could easily drink it all day every day, no matter what time it is. But as much as you may rely on it heavily, caffeine can be problematic when it comes time to go to sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you think that just one more cup of java is not an issue, think again. Caffeine can be found in many things we consume every day, such as coffee, tea, chocolate and some soft drinks. Everyone tolerates the effects of caffeine differently; some people feel the effects more excessively than others, so it is important that you know what your limit is. Some of the effects that caffeine can have on our bodies include: /wp:paragraph wp:list Increased alertness Headaches Nervousness Dizziness Anxiety Excessive urination Sleep disturbances. /wp:list wp:paragraph Let’s look at that last point a little more in depth. Caffeine indeed does not do good things when you are trying to go to sleep. It can cause insomnia and restlessness, and all in all, a bad night’s sleep making you feel tired and irritable the next morning. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Interestingly enough, research from the National Sleep Foundation does admit that there isn’t actually a great need for caffeine in our diets, but at the same time, it doesn’t pose any great risk for our overall health. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Many studies over time have proven that caffeine can cause a great dependence in many of us. And just any addiction, once we try to part ways with it, many of us actually go through withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and muscle pain. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Doctors say that it takes around 6 hours for the effects of just one cup of coffee to wear off. This is why doctors recommend that you avoid caffeine before bedtime, so that it’s easier for you to wind down when it is time to go to sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So be sure to put down that coffee and maybe have a glass of water before bed instead. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop at Papsmart.com - The #1 Online CPAP Store. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/caffeine-and-sleep /wp:paragraph
Learn moreRelaxation strategies for a better night’s sleep
wp:paragraph Do you find yourself feeling wound up before you go to sleep, or do you frequently experience bouts with insomnia? You are not alone. In today’s busy, on-the-go world we live it, it’s easy to have a lot on our minds. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph When you go to sleep, however, it is important to be completely relaxed so that you can have a full, well-rested sleep throughout the night. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3562,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Aside from sleep hygiene, which refers to creating the perfect sleep environment, how well you sleep at night all depends on you and you alone. If you have too much on your mind and you’re not at all relaxed by the time your head hits the pillow, chances are you won’t be getting a great sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here are some brief exercises from Sleepfoundation.org that will help you to make your body fully relaxed for a better night’s sleep: /wp:paragraph wp:list First of all, lie down and make sure you’re in a position where you feel comfortable. Be aware of any sensation you feel in your body and relax any tension. Focus your mind solely on your body and don’t let your mind wander to anything else. This may take some getting used to but it is important to focus your attention on your body. Next, pay attention to your breathing patterns, take note of where you feel your breathing (in your chest, abdomen etc.) and take slow and full deep breaths. The act of simply breathing deeply can do wonders for relaxing your body as you go to sleep. It is also a great thing to do if you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night. Finally, be sure you’re practicing some good sleep hygiene. Stick to a regular bedtime routine every night and keep your bedroom cool and comfortable. /wp:list wp:paragraph If this all seems like a lot, think about taking a yoga class. They are a great place to practice the art of deep breathing and can help in relaxing your body and keeping your mind free from the stresses of life. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop now! Use Promo Code: LaborDay /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://sleepfoundation.org/insomnia/diagnoses-treatments/relaxation-exercise/ /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/sleep-newzzz/201210/yoga-can-help-insomnia /wp:paragraph
Learn moreAlcohol and Sleep- What you need to know
wp:paragraph If you think that just one beer or wine will help you fall asleep at night after a long day, think again. While it’s easy for people to nod off after a few drinks, alcohol actually has negative effects on your quality of sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph It is estimated that over a third of adults have used alcohol as a method to help them fall asleep at least 3 times a month. Insomnia is common among many adults and there are ways to sleep easier at night without the negative effects of alcohol. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3556,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Here are four ways that alcohol can mess with your sleep: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} It can affect how deep your sleep is: rapid eye movement (or REM) is a stage of sleep where people dream. Researchers call it the “mentally restorative” state of sleep. Alcohol affects this by interfering with REM stage, so you are not getting as deep of a sleep as you would without alcohol in your system, and it has also been known to induce nightmares. This makes you feel exhausted the next day, and let’s face it, nightmares will not help you get a good night’s sleep. You will find yourself waking up frequently throughout the night: alcohol makes you feel dehydrated as it encourages the body to loose extra fluid, so you may be running to the toilet in the middle of the night a few times, which is never any fun. It makes you snore loudly, even if you have never snored before: alcohol relaxes the muscles in your body, which also means that your breathing patterns will not circulate properly, which means you are likely to snore Alcohol shortens the length of time that you sleep for: as mentioned above, that important “REM” stage of sleep that is affected when you drink will also cause you to wake up after only a few hours of sleep. As the alcohol starts to wear off, your body will easily go out of that deep sleep cycle you may think you’re getting and it will cause you to wake up easily too, thus affecting your quality of sleep /wp:list wp:paragraph The bottom line is this; alcohol should not be used as a method to fall asleep. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a drink or two at the end of a hard day, but be sure to quit a few hours before it’s time to go to sleep. See your doctor if you are having trouble sleeping and need help. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Our summer sale is on at Papsmart.com /wp:paragraph
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