Choosing the Best CPAP Mask for Sleep Apnea
Many people have problems with their CPAP machine, especially at first. Don’t give up. Often, the problems go away when you get used to wearing your mask.
Most Important – Comfort
Because pressurized air requires a closed seal for it to be effective, CPAP machine users are required to wear specialized masks when sleeping. The comfort level of the masks that are required for CPAP therapy is usually what causes patients to stop using their machine or avoid purchasing one altogether. If your mask feels uncomfortable you may need to try different masks to find one that fits you well.
CPAP Machine with Heat and a humidifier
If your nose and sinuses feel dry and stuff, make sure you get a machine with a heated humidifier option. If this is your first machine and insurance is pay, get the heated humidifier option!!!
If you can’t breath at night because of sinus problems on top of your sleep apnea there are still solutions available. If you have chronic sinus problems and medications don’t help there are masks available that fit over your nose and mouth. Usually if you can clear your sinus’ before you go to bed, the forced air from your CPAP machine will help keep your sinus’ clear. Read more
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Choosing the Best CPAP Machine for Sleep Apnea
Choosing the right CPAP Machine and mask is vital to proper treatment of your sleep apnea. If you’re not using your CPAP machine and mask, you’re not treating your sleep apnea and your sleep apnea will get worse without treatment.
Some health insurance programs will cover the cost of the sleep center, CPAP machine, mask and the CPAP technician that will help fit your mask and adjust your CPAP machine.
Do you travel?
If you leave home on business often, a portable model may be the best bet. Portable CPAP machines are just as powerful and have the same features as the machines that are not as portable. All CPAP machines are portable. Some may just be more portable than others. Travel models are easier to pack, stow and some will be able to deal with possible voltage changes in different countries.
Heat and Moisture
A heated humidifier is a great option. Some people are more sensitive to the cold dry air than others. If the option is available, why not? Warm, moist air is much easier on the nasal passages and throat then cold dry air, especially during winter. Some people may not know they are sensitive to cold air until it’s too late. If at all possible, get a CPAP Machine with a heated humidifier.
Ramp Option
A lot of CPAP Machines come with what’s called a ramp option. It’s a great option especially if your prescribed air pressure is fairly high. The ramp will start out with a gentle air flow to allow the patient to go to sleep and gradually increase air pressure before the full force of the prescribed air pressure is reached. Ramp is usually adjustable and can be set either by the user or the CPAP machine tech.
Noise
Some CPAP machines are louder than others. Most CPAP machines make a constant low pitched whirring noise. Mostly it sounds like “white noise” or rushing water. If you’re able to turn the machine on in a quiet room and determine for yourself, fantastic! Most of the time you’re have to make a decision using advice from friends or reviews of different machines.
Parts and Accessories
All CPAP Machines have a connecting tube that needs to be cleaned and periodically replaced. Most come with some sort of filter that is either replaceable and or washable to help filter the air you breath. If your machine has a heated humidifier option there will be a water container you fill every night. Hopefully, that container is removable so you can wash it, fill it and replace it if it cracks. Always, always, always use distilled water in your container. Using distilled water will keep the deposits from accumulating on the inside of your hose and container.
Bottom Line
CPAP Machines are expensive. Even if your insurance is paying, there are still expenses involved. Filters, hoses, water containers and masks are the most common replacement items. You can buy parts and accessories including your mask without a prescription at a zillion places online.
Take care of your CPAP machine and it will last for years and years. I’ve had the same machine for six years and it’s been hauled and banged up around the entire country and it’s still got several years left in it.
Before you purchase a CPAP machine, be sure to look at all of the options and features available to you. The CPAP machine you purchase should adapt to your lifestyle, not vice versa.
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What is a CPAP Machine?
One way to treat people who have sleep apnea is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure CPAP machine. All sleep apnea machines (CPAP machines) include a sleep apnea mask, tube and a fan. It uses air pressure (usually through your nose) to push your tongue forward and open your throat. This allows air to pass through your throat. It reduces snoring and prevents apnea episodes.
Mild Sleep Apnea can be treated by some behavioral changes. Losing weight and sleeping on your side are often recommended. There are oral mouth devices (that help keep the airway open) on the market that may help to reduce snoring in three different ways. Some devices (1) bring the jaw forward or (2) elevate the soft palate or (3) retain the tongue (from falling back in the airway and blocking breathing). Sleep Apnea is a progressive condition that gets worse as you age and should not be taken lightly.
For moderate and severe cases of Obstructive Sleep Apnea a C-PAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is usually recommended after being diagnosed by a certified sleep center.
You should put your CPAP Machine on whenever you sleep and even for naps. A sleep apnea Machine does not cure sleep apnea. But, when you use the device correctly, your sleep apnea will no longer disturb your sleep patterns and you’ll be able to get the restorative sleep your body needs.
Some people see a difference after the first night, while others may take a few nights to notice a difference. But you WILL notice a difference. A CPAP machine may not save your life directly, but after a good night’s rest, you’ll be more alert during the day. Your heart and your spouse will thank you for taking care of this problem and you’ll be glad you did.
Do you need a CPAP Machine?
Talk to your doctor if you think you have sleep apnea. Your doctor may ask you to go to a sleep center for a sleep study. During your sleep study, you may try different levels of air pressure with a CPAP machine to see which level helps. In general, heavier people and people who have severe apnea need higher air pressures. If you need a CPAP machine, your doctor will help you choose one that is right for you.
How does a CPAP Machine work?
Nasal CPAP is delivered with a mask held against the nose with a head strap. A tube leading into the mask is connected to the actual CPAP Machine that blows air into the mask and maintains a fixed pressure. This pressure splints the collapsing airway, preventing obstruction.
Although a CPAP Machine isn’t sexy, the fact of the matter is, it works. Patients do sleep with the CPAP machine, and those who use it successfully stop snoring, sleep better, feel better and recognize marked improvement in their ability to function both at work and at home.
During the CPAP diagnosis, the nasal CPAP is fitted by spending one night trying different pressures to determine the best possible pressure. Once determined, a fixed pressure CPAP machine is delivered. Some people find the forced air is drying and uncomfortable. For these individuals, humidifiers inserted in line with the CPAP will humidify the CPAP air and reduce nasal and pharyngeal discomforts.
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