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What Supplies Do I Need For My CPAP?
wp:paragraph After being diagnosed with sleep apnea, you need to start your treatment. That probably means getting a CPAP machine to help you sleep at night. But did you know that you need more than just the CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea? You also need accessories that can offer convenience, comfort, and safety in your new and improved sleeping situation. So what supplies and accessories do you actually need for your CPAP machine? Here are some items to consider: /wp:paragraph wp:list Cleaning supplies: You need to clean your CPAP machine, but you don’t necessarily need fancy cleaning supplies. Hand wash your parts with distilled water and non-allergenic soap, dust them using non-alcoholic wipes, and wipe them dry with clean towels. Backup power supply: It is inevitable – the power can go out while you are sleeping, and that can affect your CPAP machine. A backup power supply can ensure that your machine keeps running even in the event of a power outage. Portable battery pack: Going camping? Staying overnight at a friend’s house? Get a portable battery pack so that you can still have a great sleep even when you are not at home. Mask liners and cushions: If you like a little extra comfort with your CPAP, you can get gel-filled cushions and extra mask liners to provide extra more softness and comfort while you sleep. CPAP pillow: Your CPAP machine - it can take a little getting used to. Pillows specially designed for CPAP users helps ensure that you can get a comfortable sleep even while wearing your necessary equipment. Heated humidifier: Heating and air conditioning can bring dry conditions to your home. A heated humidifier will make sure that your nasal passages and airways remain warm and moist no matter what. Software: Yes! You can even get CPAP software. It monitors your sleeping, and based on your data, offers suggestions to help you get an even better sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph These are just a few of the accessories you can get to enjoy your CPAP machine even more. Ask your vendor about what items they have in stock, and snuggle down for deep and wonderful sleeps every night. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP 101
wp:paragraph CPAP is a common type of therapy for those suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where your airways frequently close while you try to sleep. This causes many short yet frequent interruptions while you sleep, affecting the quality of that sleep as well as the quality of your waking hours. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It is an effective treatment for sleep apnea. As the name suggests, your CPAP machine is designed to send gentle yet continuous pressure along through your airways to keep them open. Over time and with nightly usage, you will get better sleeps, meaning deeper sleeps. This trickles into your day, allowing you to feel less stressed and irritable, and having better focus and overall outlook. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How Does a CPAP Machine Work? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are three main components of your CPAP machine: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} The motor: The motor is like a small compressor that takes in air at room temperature and gently pressurizes it to just the right level so that it will keep your airways open but without disturbing your sleep. It also has a filter to keep out some particulates and other items. You can get accessories for your motor, such as a humidifier, to increase your comfort. A CPAP motor is very quiet – you will barely notice it! The hose: The hose is the delivery system for the pressurized air. It attaches from the motor to your mask (explained below). Although the length of the hose can vary based on the machine, they tend to be about 6 feet long. Your mask: The mask that you wear is how the pressurized air actually gets into your airways. You can find masks in all shapes and sizes to fit the variety of facial shapes and sizes. There are also different types of masks – nasal masks, nasal pillows, and full face masks. /wp:list wp:paragraph Note that there are other accessories that can increase the convenience and comfort of your CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Once you have been prescribed a CPAP machine, the most important thing you can do is to use it every night. If you use it infrequently or stop using it, then your sleep apnea symptoms tend to return, If you need help finding a comfortable CPAP setup, ask your doctor or CPAP suppler. Get the treatment you need to get long and restful sleeps again. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreSpring CPAP Tips
wp:paragraph With spring just around the corner, this new season means less bulky clothing, more time outside, and for some people – spring allergies. If you use a CPAP machine to address your sleep apnea, then dealing with both sleep apnea and spring allergies may make you want to hibernate! However, there are ways you can reduce some of the symptoms of your spring allergies that also affect your sleep apnea: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Indoor Pollutants /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph After huddling indoors for the winter, your house is probably full of common pollutants. These can include dust, pet dander if you own indoor animals, residue from perfumes, chemical and spray cleaners, smoke from a fireplace, or chemicals from smoking. What’s more, your rugs, carpets, and floors can harbor mites and other creatures that contribute to your spring allergies. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your solution – spring cleaning! Open your windows, pull out your vacuum and dust rag, and start a deep clean of every inch of your home. You should move couches, clean under rugs, and dust books on shelves. Use allergy-friendly cleaners so that you don’t inadvertently add different pollutants into your home. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Outdoor Pollutants /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph When spring arrives, the natural tendency is to get outdoors. And with good reason. But your allergies can also be affected by the outdoors. Fumes from car exhaust, pollen, lawn mowing, grass, and smog can all contribute to spring allergies, which again can affect your sleep apnea. Limit your time outdoors, and when you do go outside, try to go out earlier in the morning or later at night when the common outdoor pollutants are not as plentiful. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Your CPAP Machine /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The end of winter is also a good time to spring clean your CPAP machine. Wash every piece thoroughly with mild soap and distilled water. Check for cracks, leaks, and tears, and replace any parts if needed. If you need help finding the correct parts or want advice about cleaning, contact your CPAP vendor. Be aware of how your spring allergies can affect your sleep apnea, and sleep easy whatever comes your way. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreMaintaining Your CPAP Machine
wp:paragraph If you have a CPAP machine, then you know how important it is to your daily life. And just like your car, your furnace, and your dishwasher, your CPAP machine and its accessories also need regular maintenance to make sure they function as well as possible. It doesn’t take much – simply a little time and a routine can keep your machine working at its best. Here is what you need to do:Clean your mask and tubing /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph With daily usage, your natural oils and chemicals can build up in your mask and tubing, gradually affecting the performance of your CPAP machine. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Every morning, hand-wash your mask and tubing (and chin straps if you have them) with a non-irritant soap and some warm water. A special tubing brush can get to those hard-to-reach places. Air dry, but not in direct sunlight. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Clean your humidifier /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you have a humidifier as part of your CPAP machine, then it too needs to be cleaned. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Along with your mask and tubing, gently wash the tub with mild soap and warm water. Air dry away from sunlight. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph To minimize chemical buildup in the tub and tubing, fill the tank with distilled water instead of tap water. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Check it out /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Every month, take a look at your CPAP machine and its accessories. Do you see any signs of wear and tear? Are there any holes, nicks, or tears in the tubing or mask? Even the smallest of holes can reduce your ability to get an optimal sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Also, look for any buildup, which can affect airflow. Check the filter for dust. Replace any parts as needed. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph The sound of silence? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As technological advances continue, so do the abilities of your CPAP machine. So if your machine starts to make start unusual noises, regardless of how small, this could indicate that your machine needs some attention with the accessories, pressure, airflow, and more. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Next up! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Whether it is due to aging, new features, or changes in your diagnosis, there comes a time when your CPAP machine needs to be replaced for a newer model. But regardless of what machine you have or its age, always maintain your machine and its parts for more efficient functioning and of course, a better sleep. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP and Your Relationship
wp:paragraph If you have sleep apnea, you know how both your sleeping and waking times are affected. But if you have a significant other, your sleep apnea can affect them too. Whether it is the snoring, the inattentiveness, or the fatigue, this condition will take its toll on both of you. But there are strategies you both can take to make your relationship work – even when you have a CPAP machine. Here is what you can do: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Talk it out: How do you know what problems each of you face unless you discuss them? Be sure to do it in the day when both of you are in a good mood. Identify problem areas. Be flexible: You never know what is going to work, so give everything a try. For example, if the noise of a CPAP bothers your significant other, try using a white noise machine or a fan. You may need to sleep in another bed room for a while. Just don’t give up! Be patient: Rarely does something work perfectly on the first go. So before giving up on the white noise machine or fan, make sure you give it a few days before moving on. Perhaps try a different placement or a different setting. Try it!: If your spouse complains about the noise or disruptions, gently ask them to try on your mask or work the machine. Sometimes true understanding and sympathy comes from taking part. Your partner can relate easier to your situation, and possibly can make recommendations that will help. Ask for help: Everyone needs a helping hand once in a while, and that applies to you and your significant other too. If you find that nothing is working well enough, call your doctor. They can recommend strategies that perhaps you did not consider, suggest different types of masks or CPAP machines that may make the difference, and get you in touch with CPAP professionals who can give you hints and tips to make life - and your relationship - happier and healthier once again. /wp:list
Learn moreTop Tips for Sleep Hygeine
wp:paragraph Everyone has trouble sleeping sometimes. But if you experience sleep apnea or use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy to treat the condition, you know how difficult it can be to get a good night’s rest. Unfortunately, for many sleep apnea suffers, poor sleep hygiene only serves to make the problem worse. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph What is Sleep Hygiene? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Sleep hygiene refers to the daily habits and lifestyle choices that affect your quality of nighttime sleep. Cleaning up these bad habits can help you develop a sleep routine that promotes optimal nighttime rest and relaxation. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph How to Improve Sleep Hygiene /wp:paragraph wp:list Get on a schedule. A consistent sleep routine helps your body fall into a healthy sleep-wake cycle. Go to bed on time and resist the urge to sleep in. Short daytime naps (no more than 30 minutes) are okay, as they can improve mood and give you a mental boost, but they are no substitution for nighttime rest. /wp:list wp:list Eat and drink wisely. Avoid meals that are fried, fatty or made with heavy spices or citrus. These foods cause indigestion and exacerbate heartburn in CPAP users. Drink alcohol in moderation and not too close to bedtime. Stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine, should also be avoided later in the evening. /wp:list wp:list Stay active during the day. As little as 10 minutes of light exercise is enough to help sleep apnea suffers and CPAP users rest easier come bedtime. So take a walk around your neighborhood. /wp:list wp:list Develop a relaxing bedtime routine. Turn off TVs and mobile screens. Put on your pajamas. Do some light stretching. Read a book. Focus on things that help you wind down for the night. /wp:list wp:list If possible, sleep on your side. This helps keep your airway open for unobstructed breathing. When you sleep on your back, gravity collapses breathing muscles and blocks your airway. Stomach sleepers are less likely to experience apnea, but this position can cause neck pain and may interfere with CPAP mask function. /wp:list wp:list Consider a CPAP pillow. Many users complain about mask discomfort. For example, some masks dig into the skin and may leave marks on the user’s face. CPAP pillows contain indentations designed to alleviate this problem and can help align your neck and back. /wp:list wp:paragraph Practicing proper sleep hygiene can help you get a better night’s rest. If you have questions about how your daily habits may be affecting your sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to consult your physician. /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
Learn moreSleeping with CPAP
wp:paragraph Needing sleep apnea machines, or CPAP, to improve your sleep is a great solution, but what about the reality of the situation? With a mask, tubes, and straps, will you actually get a good night’s sleep? /wp:paragraph wp:image {"id":3718,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph As the saying goes: try it, you’ll like it! Of course, using CPAP will take some getting used to. That starts with the actual gear you need. With sleep apnea, you stop breathing for short moments, possibly up to 30 times every hour. This happens because your airways close or are blocked. Your CPAP machine uses gentle pressure to push air through, keeping your airways open. This requires a machine that contains a pump that regulates the air flow, and a tube to carry that air from the machine to a mask that you wear over or mouth and/or nose. Straps keep everything in place. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Obviously, wearing a mask over your face with straps to secure it does not, at first glance, seem like a great way to get a good night's sleep. But there are different designs, such as a nasal mask or a full mouth-and-nasal mask, which can provide the right fit for you. Try out the different options to see which one is more comfortable. You may need several tries and fittings to find the one that works for your specific needs. Ask your doctor and sleep specialist for tips and strategies to help you adjust. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Then there is the machine itself. Earlier sleep apnea machines were large and noisy; perhaps you have this image you have in mind. But as technology advances, so do the designs of sleep apnea machines. They have become smaller and quieter, making sleep easier to achieve. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph To push the air through, your CPAP machine may have different pressure settings. You can ask your doctor to adjust the settings to find the appropriate level for both your comfort and sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Finally, if you find that your CPAP machine is drying out your nose and mouth, ask about a humidifier for your machine, or one that even heats the air to make it moist. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Everyone knows the benefits of a great night’s sleep, but some people need extra help getting that. By using your CPAP machine correctly and making the necessary adjustments, you too can enjoy some sweet slumber. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Looking For A New CPAP Machine & Mask? View Our All-In-One CPAP Package On Sale Today! /wp:paragraph
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