Questions about beginning CPAP therapy?

Beginning CPAP therapy may come with many questions; we are here to answer them. CPAP therapy can provide many benefits, including improved sleep, alertness, heart health, mental health, and more.

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that disrupts breathing while asleep. Symptoms of sleep apnea include snoring, gasping for air while asleep, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

“My family doctor suggested the sleep study,” said long-time CarePro customer Joe Finkstein. “I was tired during the day and snored a lot. I probably had 25-30 apnea events per hour. I am getting much better sleep now using the CPAP.”

There are two different types of sleep apnea— obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). The most common and effective treatment for sleep apnea is CPAP therapy. A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine is utilized during CPAP therapy and helps keep the airways open while the user sleeps.

“I was diagnosed after a trip to the emergency room for a gallbladder attack,” said Kathy Dvorak, a new CPAP user. “I was familiar with CarePro Home Medical from other services, so it only made sense to go there for my CPAP needs. Having a CPAP has been life-changing. I am awake in the morning. I wake up feeling rested. The brain fog I used to have doesn’t exist.”

Using your CPAP machine correctly will allow you to receive all the benefits of your CPAP therapy. Here are some of the top CPAP user questions and answers.

How often should I replace my CPAP filter?

CPAP filters are critical because they help ensure that the air you receive is clean and allergens-free. It is crucial to replace your filters every two weeks, and if they begin to show discoloration, replace them sooner!

Do I need to bring my CPAP machine when traveling?

Yes, you should bring your CPAP machine with you even while traveling because it is essential to use your CPAP machine every night. Sticking to a consistent schedule with your CPAP therapy will allow you to receive all the benefits. Traveling with your CPAP machine is possible and easy to do.

What should I do if my CPAP mask is uncomfortable?

For new CPAP users, it is very common for their CPAP mask to feel uncomfortable at first. It may take time to get used to wearing your mask while sleeping. Some CPAP users find it helpful to practice wearing their mask throughout the day to help them get used to the feeling of wearing it. If the uncomfortable feeling persists, consider switching the type of CPAP mask to increase comfort and make your CPAP therapy a better experience overall.

What should I do about nasal and throat dryness caused by my CPAP machine?

1.Experiencing a dry nose, dry mouth, or sore throat is extremely common among CPAP users. A CPAP humidifier can help with this problem by adding moisture back into your breathing air! Along with a CPAP humidifier, you can use nasal sprays, a non-petroleum-based moisturizer for your nose, and heated tubing to help eliminate CPAP dryness.

What should I do if my CPAP machine is too loud?

Generally, most CPAP machines today aren't very loud due to the innovation and technology used today. If your CPAP machine has become louder, that might indicate something is wrong. Air leaks and clogged filters can cause your CPAP machine to make loud noises. Be sure to check your mask, tubing, and the machine for any air leaks, and change your filters regularly to prevent your CPAP machine from being too loud!

What types of accessories will help with my CPAP therapy?

If you struggle with sleeping with your mouth open, a chin strap can be beneficial A chin strap will gently hold your mouth closed to reduce air leakage and it can help improve your overall CPAP experience.

CarePro knows the importance of having CPAP supplies and accessories accessible and available when you need them. “Renae, my respiratory therapist at CarePro, knows when I need supplies,” said Mr. Finkstein. “She confirms that I need the supplies and mails them when needed, which is really convenient. Typically, I would call, and then they would get the supplies ready for pick up, even on the same day if needed.”

Cleaning your CPAP safely

CPAP mask wipes can help you clean your mask regularly, keeping allergens and irritants out of your CPAP mask and machine. While you are sleeping, germs from your nose, throat, and mouth are released into your CPAP mask which over time could cause illness if not cleaned properly. CPAP mask wipes are convenient and cost-effective. Ensuring that your CPAP mask is clean can help prevent you from getting illnesses such as sinus infections and allergies.

If you experience discomfort while using your CPAP machine, a CPAP pillow could be the solution. CPAP pillows are specifically designed to provide extra support and comfort while you are using your CPAP machine. Using a CPAP pillow can help you consistently use your CPAP machine, reduce mask leaks, decrease tension, and improve your overall quality of sleep.

For those who experience skin irritation from your CPAP mask, a nasal pad can provide relief. Nasal pads are placed on the bridge of the nose to help reduce skin irritation and increase comfort.

“There was a time I did not like my mask,” said Mr. Finkstein. “I just didn’t like the mask on my face. I have tried several masks over the years. Renae at CarePro suggested nasal pillows, and I liked that style so much better.”

Starting your CPAP journey can be daunting, but the respiratory team at CarePro is here to help make it easy for you to follow and understand. “I went into the process with a lot of preconceived ideas that weren’t accurate,” said Mrs. Dvorak. “I thought it would be loud, cumbersome and restricting. It ended up being none of those things.”

At CarePro Home Medical, we want you to receive the best CPAP therapy to help you get better sleep. Our team of respiratory therapists is here to help you on this important journey and are available to help you troubleshoot any issues you may encounter. When visiting our store, you can use our convenient and accessible parking and our Saturday hours to fit your busy schedule.

Mr. Finkstein agrees that CarePro is there for your CPAP journey. “My experience with CarePro Home Medical has been phenomenal. They are wonderful at supplying information. They are knowledgeable and answer questions or get answers if they don’t know,” he said.

As a new CPAP user, Mrs. Dvorak was grateful for the thorough set-up and follow-up that CarePro provides. “It was so helpful to have the training to understand the feedback numbers so I know what I am looking at when I review the information from the machine. I always feel comfortable calling them with any questions,” she said.

If you have any further CPAP questions we didn't answer in this article, contact our team to get your questions answered. You can find all the CPAP equipment, filters, accessories, and masks you need on our website!