Sleeping with Your CPAP Machine: Some Helpful Hints

If you have sleep apnea or another sleeping disorder, your doctor will recommend CPAP masks suited for your condition. Now that you have a solution to treat the disease, you might be wondering how to use it. The first thing to remember is that it is normal to take as much time as you need to get used to a CPAP mask. This is a significant part of sleep therapy and will help you enjoy adequate and quality sleep.

Every patient has a different course of sleep apnea treatment, and you will gradually learn how to work best with your CPAP machine – which comes with several benefits. You must remember that good sleep does not simply energise you for the next day but positively impacts your mental and physical health as well. To maximize the efficiency of your product for a successful sleep apnea treatment:

●Ensure that your CPAP Mask Fits you Correctly

CPAP masks come in different sizes and shapes, as everyone’s face is different. At the doctor’s clinic, try out some masks, and see which ones fit better according to your facial features – which could be small, average or large.

The suitable mask must fit you properly, which would prevent dry mouth, stomach discomfort, leaky seals, bloating, congestion and face irritation. If the mask is too tight or loose for you, you can adjust it as needed – try lying down and with your device on as you do so. Inflate the mask slightly with the air on, which seals them correctly for efficient use. Check the comfort of your sleeping position straps etc.

●Practice with your CPAP Mask

It takes time to get used to a CPAP machine, and you will adjust in your time. Wear the mask when you are watching or reading during the day, distracting you from the mask. Over time, it helps you deal with any claustrophobic feelings that comes when wearing the mask. Try adjusting it slightly to make the mask comfortable; lie down and see if you are satisfied. If you are experiencing discomfort with the head or mask straps against the skin, use soft nasal pads for your nose.

●Go to Bed only when you are Sleepy

If you are not tired or close to your bedtime, do something relaxing as you prepare yourself for CPAP therapy. Avoid going to bed with a worried or busy mind; instead, relax with reading, watching television, a warm shower or relaxation exercises. Refrain from heated discussions or working as this would trigger the hormone cortisol and increase alertness.

●Maintain Sleep Hygiene

Have a good sleeping schedule in place before going for CPAP therapy, such as going to bed when you are tired, sleeping on a high-quality pillow and mattress, using pillows for side sleepers and sleeping in a quiet and dark environment. Avoid coffee, phones and alcohol before bedtime.

●Use AutoRamp on the CPAP Machine

The AutoRamp setting enables the patient to adjust to the air pressure by starting at a low air pressure at increasing to full pressure when you are fast asleep. Thus, you can easily fall asleep and enjoy the exclusive benefits of CPAP therapy.

●Set the Humidifying Setting

A moist throat and nose are necessary during CPAP therapy, but the air pressure can dry out the room even more. Though humidifiers are commonly used, CPAP machines Australia have heated tubing and heated humidifiers. You can customise the humidity yourself, which will prevent dry mouth and throat. If you have a runny nose or dry mouth in the morning, adjust the humidity settings on the CPAP machine. If the condition does not improve, use a nasal spray or a different mask to clear the congestion.

●Keep the CPAP Machine Clean

The CPAP machine comprises several components, which must be cleaned. Every day, empty the humidifier and rinse it with water. Wash the headgear, tubing and mask with mild soap weekly. Hand Wash your reusable filters, if any. CPAP machines have disposable and reusable filters. Change the disposable filters every month.

Ultimately try to stay optimistic about treating your symptoms, practise living with the mask and form good bedtime habits. If you want to buy a CPAP machine or need expert advice to buy CPAP masks, please talk to our specialists at MyCPAP.