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Time for a new CPAP Machine?
wp:paragraph After you get a CPAP machine to help with your sleep apnea, you know that you have to maintain it. That means cleaning it regularly, checking for wear and tear, and replacing smaller parts when needed. But at some point, did you know that you may need to replace the entire machine? All good things must come to an end, and typically, a CPAP machine lasts around five years, depending on your frequency of maintenance, and overall usage. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3795,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Replacing your machine can be a good idea – you can get access to the latest technology, which can make sleep better and easier. Machines may become smaller, quieter, and easier to clean. This is great, but it leads to an important question – how do you know when you should replace your CPAP machine? Here are a few telltale signs that the time has come: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Is it noisy?: Your CPAP machine will make a gentle noise when it is on. However, if the noise becomes louder than usual and it doesn’t go away, then you may need to replace your machine. Does it work well?: As any appliance ages, it won’t work quite as well as it once did. If you notice that it doesn’t work enough to ensure that you get a good sleep every night, then your CPAP machine may be showing signs of age. Have you maintained your machine?: Sure, everyone knows that to make an appliance last longer, you need to take care of it. But after a week of work, obligations, and responsibilities, perhaps you didn’t take care of your CPAP machine as you should. This could result in your needing to replace it sooner than you anticipated. Is new for you?: No one says you have to wait for your CPAP machine to be on its last legs before you get a new one. If new technology means a quieter machine, a smaller machine, or a machine that has a feature that you would love, then consider taking advantage of these upgrades for an even better sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph If you are thinking of a new CPAP machine, find the one that is right for you, and enjoy sleep like never before! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop Now & Save This Fall /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
Learn moreCPAP Success in the Fall - Top Tips
wp:paragraph When seasons change, it is easy to initially think of all the things you have to do for your home. One important thing, that most people overlook, is changes that may have to be made to your continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Ensuring that your CPAP is performing its best all year long, should be a top priority for any CPAP user. /wp:paragraph wp:image {"align":"center","id":3792,"sizeSlug":"large"} /wp:image wp:paragraph Humidity is the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere or a gas. As outdoor humidity changes, it impacts our indoor climates. If you adjust your furnace or even turn fans to a higher or lower setting, this could affect your home's humidity and your continuous positive airway pressure. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, a heated humidifier could be an essential use if you are suffering from ailments such as dry nostrils, condensation causing the CPAP to drip on you, or trouble breathing. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph This fall remember the following tips for better continuous positive airway pressure: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 1. Room Temperature: Figure out an optimum setting for both your room temperature and your CPAP humidifier (if needed). Be willing to play around this until you reach your comfort level. Do not rush this process. Your journey to continuous positive airway pressure is ongoing. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 2. Cleanliness: Cold/flu season is upon us! Now more than ever ensure that your device is clean. Set reminders on your phone and refresh yourself on the correct method to clean your Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 3. Medication: Speak with your doctor about things such as nasal sprays that can work in conjunction with your CPAP and aid you in getting used to your changing household humidity. There are many medications that aid with continuous positive airway pressure. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Shop Now & Save This Fall /wp:paragraph
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Top Tips from a CPAP Veteran
wp:paragraph Are you concerned about your sleep? Has your significant other or spouse complained about your snoring and informed you that you seem to stop breathing when you sleep? Are you finding yourself tired during the workday? I had these concerns and my doctor diagnosed me with sleep apnea. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea. According to the National Sleep Foundation, more than 18 million American adults have sleep apnea. Many lead normal, productive lives through the use of a CPAP. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy uses a machine to help people, like me, with sleep apnea breathe more easily. Sleeping with a machine, in a mask, can seem weird and even uncomfortable at first but below I will provide some tips that have helped me along the way. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 1. Start Slow. Do not just jump into this blindly. You have to build up to using this device, which will be a necessary part of your life moving forward. One of the ways I broke in my device in was by wearing my CPAP while binge watching my favourite shows. This helped me figure out how to adjust it and reach a comfortable place. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 2. Remember to communicate. I am a firm believer in there being no such thing as a stupid question. My spouse was worried about if she could sleep in the bed with me and together we talked to our doctor. The doctor also spoke with me about nasal drops for congestion issues I developed while wearing my CPAP. Keep the lines of communication open! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph 3. Develop a routine. This is the most important tip! When things are a routine, they become second nature to us. Developing a routine helped me not only to relax when using my CPAP but also to ensure I stayed compliant in using it. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph As a CPAP veteran, I hope you find tips from my CPAP journey helpful. Obstructive Sleep Apnea can be alarming but with the proper treatment you can achieve a good night's sleep. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All CPAP Masks On Sale This Week - Start Shopping Now! /wp:paragraph
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Top Tips For Choosing The Right CPAP Mask
wp:paragraph When you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor probably recommended that you get a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine to address your health issue. This machine offers a continuous flow of air through your airways to ensure that they remain open while you sleep. This means you get a better sleep, and that means better waking hours too. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph But getting used to a CPAP machine can have some challenges. You need to find a mask that fits you properly to get that better sleep. If it doesn’t fit quite right, you can still have poor sleep – and you have had enough of those! Here are some tips to help you choose the right CPAP mask: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Style: From the full face mask, nasal interface mask, to the standard nasal mask, there are different styles of masks you can try. Each one offers its own specific benefits based on how it is worn. Make sure you try different styles so that you can compare how to wear and sleep with each mask to find the one that is best for you. Fit: After you have found the right type of mask, you need to find one that fits you comfortably. Try different makes in the style you like, and pay attention to its overall snugness – for example, is it too tight or too loose, do the straps get in the way, does the mask leak air? Again, try out different masks until you find one that has the right fit for your head and face. Comfort: There’s nothing better than a good night’s sleep, but wearing a CPAP mask can take some getting used to. When you first sleep with your mask, it could feel uncomfortable, and rightly so. But give it time – you will soon get used to it. As you get used to it, be aware of any discomfort from wearing the mask. Do you get chafing, do you awaken at night from the device, or are the chin straps digging in? These types of issues can affect the comfort of your mask, and therefore, your sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph Finding the right mask can take some time, but it's time worth taking. Be sure to try different types of masks, ask for multiple fits, and don’t be afraid to ask for adjustments or changes – your overall health depends on it. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All CPAP Masks On Sale This Week - Start Shopping Now! /wp:paragraph
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4 Tips for CPAP in the Fall
Have you ever noticed if your sleep patterns change with the seasons? As crisp and beautiful as fall time can be, this season can also affect your sleep apnea. This can be due to multiple influences, such as the change in temperature and humidity, the amount of sunlight, differences in pressure, and increases in pollen. But even with these changes, there are still ways that you can minimize disruptions with your sleep no matter the cause. Here are some tips to try and address any problems you may encounter: Allergies: Suffering from fall time allergies can affect both your waking hours and sleeping ones too. Close windows at night, try to shower before bed to wash off any pollen in your hair, and use your dryer instead of line drying. Get outside: Getting outside to exercise is especially important. Exercise can help you relax physically, making sleep easier. It can also help you lose weight, which is especially beneficial for those with sleep apnea. Better yet, it lets you get a daily dose of Vitamin D naturally. Fall cleaning: This is a great time to do some fall cleaning – of your CPAP machine. Give every piece of equipment a thorough wash with the right solutions. Replace filters. Examine your equipment carefully for parts that need to be repaired or replaced. Combat weather changes. Changes in the weather can wreak havoc on your sinuses. If you anticipate such changes, take pain medication, as directed by a medical professional, to relieve the pain and swelling, which will help you get a better night’s sleep. Some people love the fall time. But if you have sleep apnea, you may not find it as enjoyable. However, if you follow the tips above, you can help alleviate issues and enjoy this crisp season to its fullest. As temperatures drop, make sure your mask fits comfortably through the cooler nights — Shop CPAP Masks for a Restful Fall Season and enjoy uninterrupted sleep all autumn long. As the weather changes, make sure your equipment is optimized for comfort — Shop Auto CPAP Machines
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Back to School Sleep Tips
wp:paragraph After the fun and relaxed pace of summer, easing back into the school year routine can be daunting. But starting and maintaining a heathy sleep schedule is crucial to your child’s ability to learn, engage, and grow. Here are five easy tips to help your child adjust to the right style of sleep needed for school: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Before school begins, start getting your children used to the sleep schedule they will follow during the school year. Allow about two weeks, and work incrementally with an earlier bedtime and wake up time. Create a relaxing bedtime routine. This can mean a bath and bedtime stories for younger kids, or reading for older ones. Avoid strenuous, exciting, and loud activities, including television and video games. Avoid larger snacks and meals close to bedtime because digesting large amounts of food can be disruptive. If your child needs a snack, look to warm milk, plain yogurt topped with real fruit, or cheese and crackers. Build a relaxing bedroom. This promotes an easy and deep sleep. Try using blackout curtains, keeping the room cool, and removing as many distractions as possible that could encourage your child to stay awake instead of sleep. Do you know a great way to encourage healthy sleep patterns? By modelling them yourself! You can show your child how important a healthy sleep is by doing all of the things that you tell your child to do. What’s great is that you too will get better sleep. What’s not to like? /wp:list wp:paragraph Having to restart a schedule can signal the end of summertime fun, but it will make the transition to school easier. By following the simple tips above, you make this transition relatively seamless while ensuring your child gets the sleep they need in time for school. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Download the FREE Beginners Guide to Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea. /wp:paragraph
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Mask Breakdown: Causes and Cures
wp:paragraph When your CPAP mask fits just right, your experience - and your sleep – is better all around. But wearing a mask takes some getting used to, and as with many things, you may find some issues. Here are some common ones: /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph My mask feels a bit uncomfortable. What can I do? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There are a number of reasons why a mask may be uncomfortable. Your mask may not fit right, it could be the wrong size, or the type of mask may be wrong for you. Ask your vendor to try different masks to find one that sits more comfortably. Also remember to be patient – it may just take some time. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph My mask is leaking. How can I stop this? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A leak usually means that there is a problem with the fit or the seal. Perhaps you put your mask together incorrectly - look through the instructions and try again. Your mask may not be the right size for you. Your vendor can help you find a better one. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph If your mask is older, you just may need to replace it as your mask can wear out after time. Don’t forget to wash your mask either – residue can build up, affecting the seals of your mask. Finally, ask your doctor to help you adjust the fit. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Wow! This mask is really noisy! How can I make it quiet? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A noisy mask often means that it isn’t sealed correctly or that it is leaking air. As above, make sure you clean your mask, have its fit adjusted, try a different one, and ask your doctor to adjust fittings. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph I have a fantastic beard – do I have to shave it off to wear my mask? /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Not necessarily. You will need to try a lot more masks to find one that can accommodate your facial hair. Trim your facial hair will also help. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph Help! My skin is getting really irritated from using my mask. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph A few reasons why this can happen include; /wp:paragraph wp:list Your headgear is too tight or too loose. Adjust its fit and try again. Your mask is the wrong size or style. Try some different ones to find a better fit. You need a new mask. A worn-out mask may not seal properly which can create skin irritations. Your mask needs to be cleaned. Residue buildup can affect your mask’s ability to create a proper seal. /wp:list wp:paragraph PapSmart Summer Sale Is On - SHOP NOW! /wp:paragraph
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Surviving CPAP and the Summer Heat
wp:paragraph Warm weather, long days, and beautiful blue skies – the signs that summer is here. While many people are thrilled about the arrival of the season, when you have sleep apnea, summer can lead to long, sleepless nights. However, you can beat that summer heat even when you use a CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea. Here’s your quick survival guide: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Darkness reigns: When the days are long, you may think it’s not yet time to go to sleep. By making your bedroom as dark as you can, you can increase the desire to sleep and keep cool your room too. Shower power: Try taking a shower before going to bed. Not only will you feel more comfortable for sleeping, you will also remove any pollen that can keep you up at night. Cool room: If you don’t have an air conditioner, you can still cool your room by placing shallow bowls or pans of cool water in front of a fan. This creates a refreshing cool mist. Less humidity: Humidity can really put a damper on a good night’s sleep. If you live in a locale that sees higher humidity levels, consider getting a dehumidifier. It does double duty – removes the humidity in the room and minimizes the buildup of mold spores. Clean time: Heat and humidity can lead to mold growth in the summer – even in your CPAP machine. Make sure you clean your machine on a regular basis and look for signs of growth. Same and steady: Do your best to keep to the same sleep schedule, both during the week and on weekends. Sunscreen: No one likes a sunburn, but just think how uncomfortable wearing a CPAP mask is while your face is tender! Use sunscreen, wear a wide brimmed hat, and stay in the shade to avoid this issue. Pollen-ation: Allergies and sleep apnea are not great pals. Check local pollen reports and avoid going out on those days where the counts are higher. Schedule an appointment: If you still need help getting a good night’s sleep, schedule a doctor's appointment. They can prescribe allergy medication or suggest other ways that you can regain a healthy sleep. /wp:list wp:paragraph Having sleep apnea can wreak havoc with your sleep. Using a CPAP machine and following the tips above can help ensure that your slumber remains steady and solid no matter the conditions outside. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph PapSmart Summer Sale Is On - SHOP NOW! /wp:paragraph
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Top Tips for CPAP Care and Maintenance
wp:paragraph How can you make sure that your CPAP machine stays in great working order for as long as possible? By taking care of it. No, it doesn’t get dragged through the mud, but it does get daily use. And over time, buildup and other residue can accumulate, wearing down parts and affecting its functioning. Happily, caring for and maintaining your CPAP machine doesn’t take much time. Here is what you need to do: /wp:paragraph wp:list {"ordered":true} Clean out the humidifier chamber every day. This helps prevent calcification and bacteria from building up. Make sure you remove the chamber from the humidifier so that you don’t get water in your machine. Do not use tap water- use distilled water instead. Also use a gentle soap and a clean cloth. Allow the chamber to dry on a towel away from sunlight. Your mask: Because this piece item gets direct usage every night, you should clean it every day as well. Wash with warm water and mild, unscented soap. You can instead buy wipes and cleaners specifically designed for your mask. Also, make sure you wash your face before wearing your mask! Moisturizers and other face creams can affect it. The filter: How you clean the filter depends if you have a disposable or non-disposable filter. If disposable, replace it at least every month, or more if it looks a bit dirty or dingy. For non-disposable filters, clean it at least every week, and more if you smoke, have critters, or if it is a high pollen time in your area. Tip top: Make sure you examine all of the parts of your CPAP machine regularly for signs of damage, wear and tear, residue buildup, or other issues that can affect its performance. Have replacement parts on hand. Keep your machine and its parts away from the sun as that can cause the parts to break down faster. /wp:list wp:paragraph These simple tips don’t take much time at all, and will help keep your machine running efficiently. If you have any questions, ask your vendor for help – your sleep depends on it! /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph All CPAP Masks On Sale This Week - Start Shopping Now! /wp:paragraph
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