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Sleep Tips for a New Year
wp:paragraph With all the worries of a global pandemic it can be tough to relax and wind down these days. As we start a new year, let’s refocus on healthy sleep habits, as we know we can live healthier happier lives – and better manage life with CPAP – if we are well rested. Below our some tips to get back to the basics of a good night’s sleep: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true,"type":"1"} Create a normal bedtime routine. Do the same things each night to wind down such as having a cup of tea, taking a warm shower or bath, reading, or listening to soothing music. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even when you are working from home or off work. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol when it is close to bedtime. The effects can take hours to wear off and will disrupt your quality of sleep. Stay away from large meals close to bedtime. The discomfort you have from eating too much will only keep you awake at night Indulge in relaxing exercise such as yoga to help relax yourself before you sleep. Keep any vigorous activities such as running to earlier in the day, so you are not too wound up before bedtime. Associate your bed with sleeping only. Don’t use it as a couch during the day for reading or watching TV. Take one hour before you go to bed to wind down and de-stress yourself. Power down all your electronics and avoid any stressful conversations with your partner. Make this a part of your bedtime routine as mentioned above. Create an ideal sleeping atmosphere in your room. Ensure the room is cool enough to your preference and use earplugs and room-darkening shades if you need to. Avoid too much napping during the day as it may keep you up at night. Know when to seek help. Everyone has those nights where we can’t sleep no matter how hard we try, but if it happens consistently and it interferes with your daily life, then it’s time to see a doctor. /wp:list
Learn moreIs it time to replace my CPAP parts?
wp:paragraph When you have sleep apnea, you know how important your CPAP machine is in treating your sleep disorder. Your CPAP machine is like other machines and appliances - sometimes the parts wear out or break, and need to be replaced. It is important that you replace broken or worn out parts so that your machine operates at peak efficiency. Even if you don't realize that your CPAP machine isn't working as it should, eventually your body will let you know by being tired, cranky, and just not your usual self. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph So the question you may have is this - with all of the different parts of the machine, how do you know when to replace any parts and accessories? Here is a quick guideline to help you. /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Inspect all parts and accessories regularly: The first way to know when something needs to be replaced is to check it for tears, cracks, or breaks. You can do this whenever you wash the parts. Read the manual: The manufacturer provides a manual with accessory "life expectancy". You can use this as a guideline for replacements or even when to start checking for issues. Go by feel: Even if the parts look fine and you are following the manufacturer's suggestions, it still is possible that your parts are no longer sealing as they should. How can you tell? By how you feel. If you aren't feeling as well rested as you used to, this can be a sign that you need to replace some parts. /wp:list wp:paragraph As a general rule you should replace your parts on the schedule below: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph {"align":"left"} Monthly /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Disposable Filters /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Every Six Months /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Reusable Filters, Cushions and Pillows, Headgear /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph {"align":"left"} Every Six - Twelve Months /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Masks /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP and COVID19: Your Questions Answered
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 moreFestive 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 moreAutumn 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 moreBack 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
Learn moreCPAP - A Lifelong Therapy
wp:paragraph If you have sleep apnea, your doctor will likely recommend a CPAP machine to help you return to a healthy and happy you. But you may wonder – do you have to use your CPAP machine forever? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Like many answers in life: that depends. For most, the answer is yes. CPAP is a lifelong therapy and if used regularly it can seriously improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of serious health issues like heart attack and stroke. Additionally, there could be lifestyle issues, such as your diet, weight, and sleep habits, that could be contributing to your sleep apnea. If this is the case, you may be able to make significant lifestyle changes after you start to feel the improved sleep quality from CPAP. If your sleep apnea is mild, it may be possible to eventually correct the issue with lifestyle changes. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you are anxious about using your CPAP machine for the long-term – don't be! Advancements in technology now mean smaller machines, quieter machines, and travel machines so that you can keep doing what you want to do without hassle. Even better, accessories give you comfort regardless of the type of sleeper you are, whether you have allergies, or if you live in a drier area. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If you have questions, your doctor can help you make the right CPAP and lifestyle choices, no matter what you enjoy doing. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP and Weight Loss
wp:paragraph Having untreated sleep apnea can affect your ability to lose weight. Yet it has also been said that losing weight can make a positive impact on your sleep apnea. So it is safe to say that sleep apnea and weight issues are linked. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Here is what you need to know about sleep apnea, CPAP, and weight loss. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Sleep apnea means that your airways become blocked temporarily while you sleep. These short but frequent interruptions will prevent you from having a restful sleep. Over time, you will feel the effects of these poor sleeps. Irritation, an inability to focus, feeling constantly fatigued, headaches, higher blood pressure, and even an increased risk of heart attack or stroke are all possibilities when you have sleep apnea. Having sleep apnea also effects your hormone levels and this can cause you to feel more hungry and struggle to stop eating when full. Sleep disorders in general may also cause you to crave sweeter less healthy foods. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Additionally, the constant fatigue will discourage you from exercising – you are just too tired! And over time, that lack of exercise could show up as an additional contributor to an increase in your weight. The good news is that your CPAP machine can help. It opens your airways while you sleep, allowing you to get better sleeps. Feeling rested increases your energy levels, which can help you want to exercise, and follow through. Treating your sleep apnea will also help your hormone levels normalize which will help you lose weight as well. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Be sure to use your CPAP machine, not just to improve your sleep, but to help you lose weight, and be healthier overall. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
Learn moreIntegrating CPAP Into Your Life
wp:paragraph Your CPAP machine can be a crucial component in treating your sleep apnea. But when you first get your CPAP machine, it can be a little difficult to get used to. There is a mask, tube, the machine itself, the water reservoir, and possibly accessories. How can you get used to sleeping with such a machine? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Not only is it possible, but doing so will help you feel well-rested. Here are some tips to help you integrate CPAP into your life: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Get comfortable with your machine: With all of its parts, your CPAP machine can look a little daunting. So get to know it! Understand what each piece is for, how it should fit. Becoming familiar will make it seem less foreign. Start slowly: Few people use their CPAP machine the first night without some level of discomfort. So start slowly to get used to it. For example, use it while watching television or reading a book. This gives you time to get used to how it feels and move around with it. Be patient: You also need to be patient. Allow yourself a few weeks to shift from a non-CPAP wearer to a CPAP wearer. Over time, it will begin to feel like part of your bedtime routine. Ask for help: If there are some parts that just aren't feeling comfortable as time passes, then ask your CPAP vendor for suggestions. Maybe an adjustment or change in part can make all of the difference. /wp:list wp:paragraph Newly diagnosed with OSA and need CPAP? Shop CPAP, CPAP Masks, and Accessories Now! /wp:paragraph
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