If you have sleep apnea, in which your airway becomes obstructed while sleeping, causing a pause in breathing, you may benefit from a CPAP machine. The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine keeps a flow of air moving through your airways via a mask attached to a motorized blower. The constant air moving prevents your airway from becoming obstructed, allowing you to breathe without interruption, allowing you to sleep more deeply.
In order to get the best results for treating your sleep apnea with a CPAP machine, we recommend you follow these best practices outlined below.
Your CPAP Machine is Essential Anytime You Sleep
The CPAP machine is an on-going treatment for your apnea, and it only works when you are using it. Using your machine for a period of time, then going without only means you will revert back to periods of apnea during sleep. This means, when you take a nap or travel, you should still use your CPAP treatment.
Maintain Your CPAP Machine
Just like any motorized device, regular maintenance is important to keep your machine running efficiently and effectively. While we wrote more on how to care for your CPAP machine, regarding cleaning, but you also want to subscribe to a replacement schedule so you aren’t using worn or old components.
Your pillows, cushions, and disposable filters should be replaced monthly. Every three months, you want to replace your tubing, mask and frame, and every six months, you should replace non-disposable filters, the headgear, and chin straps.
Ensure Your Mask Fits Correctly
While you should meet with a professional for a mask fitting when you purchase or rent your CPAP machine, it’s important to be honest and address any concerns immediately. If you are feeling claustrophobic, you may benefit from nasal pillows or prongs, rather than a full mask whereas, if you suffer from chronic nasal congestion, a combination of nasal pillows and an oral mask may benefit you. Your CPAP machine mask and gear should be comfortable, supporting your good night’s rest, not hindering it, so as soon as there are concerns, bring them up to a professional.
Using Your Humidifier
The continual air flow into your airways can be drying to your mouth and nose. Using your humidifier will reduce that discomfort, and some studies show that a heated humidifier that adds warmed moisture to the air is more beneficial.
Contact Our Charlotte Sleep Therapy Equipment Center
While we work with every client individually to provide information and education that will ensure you’re comfortable and confident with your CPAP machine, if you have any concerns, our respiratory therapists are available for assistance. To learn more about CPAP machines, how to get the best fit, and other information, call us at (704) 846-7503 or fill out our contact form below for more information.