New to CPAP Machine? Here Is Your Guide

CPAP machine guide

Every year, sleep apnea affects millions of Americans. It's a disease where hundreds of times you stop breathing during the night. Snoring is one of the most common symptoms, but not all sleep apnea snore. A sleep study is therefore typically necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.

If left untreated, sleep apnea, the American Sleep Apnea Association reports, may lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Here is why, sleep apnea treatment is relevant.

CPAP Machine

The CPAP stands for Positive Continuous Airway Pressure. A CPAP is a small device with a mask and a flexible hose. You're wearing the mask while you are dreaming. Oxygen is provided by the mask which provides a gentle and steady air flow. This pressure keeps your airways open all night long.

The tubes are long enough to allow you to go to sleep, so the device does not make loud noises itself, so that you and your wife are not woken up by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

CPAP Machine Using Tips

It may take a while for your CPAP machine to get used to. Note that this is a change in lifestyle, and it might take time. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine provides the following helpful tips:

  • Start wearing your mask in the evening for short periods. Wear it, for example, while you watch TV or read it.

  • Use the CPAP every night. This is not only important for its effectiveness, but also to help you get used to it. It is harder for your body to adjust if you don't use it consistently.

  • If you take a nap, use your CPAP.

  • Once you begin to fall asleep, your CPAP must feel natural–don't be frustrated if it takes time.

  • Make sure your mask is correctly fitted–good fit is necessary for effective treatment. We'll be glad to help you make a good fit.

  • If the pressure is too high, you can use the CPAP "ramp" mode.

  • When you use your CPAP throughout the night, be consistent with your use.

  • A special pillow designed to fit CPAP equipment may be needed.

  • Regularly clean the tools.

  • Don't hesitate to ask.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Wrong Sized Mask

Work closely with your doctor and CPAP provider to ensure that you have an adequate CPAP mask. Everyone has different facets, so someone else might not work for you in the right style and size mask.

Dry Nose

Check that your mask has a good fit. A leaky mask can dry out your nose. If you are repeatedly tightening the mask, the mask does not have the right fit.

A CPAP system has a heated humidifier connected to an air pressure machine. You can fix the humidification level. A nasal saline spray can also help relieve a dry, stuffy nose during bedtime.

Leak in Mask

A leaky or inadequate mask ensures you do not get the full air pressure and may irritate your skin. The mask would blow air to your eyes and make them dry or teary.

Try to adjust pads and belts to make them fit better. If the device sits over your nose, be sure that it is not too high on your nose bridge and do not blow air to the eyes.

Dry Mouth

Some CPAP machines could exacerbate the dry mouth when breathe by mouth while sleeping. While wearing a nasal mask, using a chin strap will help to keep mouth closed and reduce the air leak.

A face covering mask system protecting the mouth and nose can also work for you. It can also be helpful with a CPAP-heated humidifier connected to the air pressure machine.

For sleep apnea treatment and better CPAP guide, you can contact OKOA. Book your appointment today for CPAP and other sleeping issues.

**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.