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cpap machine

CPAP MACHINE TIPS – HELPING YOU GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines are effective tools in ensuring a good night’s sleep for those with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The machines on the market differ in size, quality and built-in functions, and all of them can take some getting used to. Here are some tips and useful information on CPAP machines to help you get a good night’s sleep:

CPAP HUMIDIFIERS

The air pressure produced by the CPAP machine can cause dryness or stuffiness in some people’s sinuses. These days, most machines are equipped with a heated humidifier feature to reduce stuffy dryness in the airways by increasing the moisture in the air being delivered.

GETTING TO SLEEP WITH CONTINUOUS AIR PRESSURE

A different air pressure to what you naturally experience can feel uncomfortable at first, and users of CPAP machines can find it difficult to exhale with the air stream. While the air pressure is something to get used to, some machines have a Sleep Onset Detection function, which means the heavier air pressure will only kick in once you are asleep, allowing you to comfortably drift off first.

AIR LEAKAGE

Air leaks means the air pressure, which the CPAP machine uses to keep your airways open, is lost. This causes a less or completely ineffective treatment and interrupts sleep. To overcome leaks, you need to ensure the seal between the mask and your face is not broken. Create a pressure seal by ensuring the mask fits snugly against your face.

NOISE COMING FROM THE CPAP MACHINE

All of the newer models of CPAP machines are virtually silent, and as such your machine shouldn’t keep you up at night with sound. If you do, however, here a noise coming from your machine when it is turned on, check to make sure the air filter is unblocked. It may need to be cleaned out, or the hose or mask may need clearing, which you can ask your healthcare professional about how to do thoroughly. If none of this helps, take your CPAP machine to your supplier to have it checked to ensure it’s in working order. Alternatively, you may find a custom-fit mask is what you’re looking for, in which case ApneaSeal would be happy to help.
cpap mask

CPAP MASK FAQS

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
If you have finally made a step to get checked because of loud snoring and have received a proper diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea, congratulations! You will now sleep better at night and also lessen your chances of developing brain damage and other severe diseases. However, you may now have many questions on how to get the best CPAP mask.

WHICH CPAP MASK IS SUITABLE FOR ME IF I MOVE A LOT WHILE SLEEPING?

If you move a lot while asleep, you should get a full-face CPAP mask. It has sturdy headgear and extra straps that stay tightly in place while you sleep. However, a nasal pillow CPAP mask can be a great alternative if a full face CPAP mask makes you claustrophobic or uncomfortable. It has a smaller surface area compared to the full face CPAP mask, and it stays in place even after you turn and toss.

ARE THERE CPAP DEVICES THAT HAVE NO MASKS?

If bearing the claustrophobic sensation of a partial or full mask is difficult for you, you can get a no mask CPAP device. They are pain-free, durable, lightweight and easy to use.

WHICH CPAP MASK SHOULD I GET IF I MOSTLY BREATHE THROUGH MY MOUTH?

It is essential to understand your breathing pattern to be able to get the best CPAP device. Breathing pattern describes the exhalation and inhalation through your mouth, nose or a combination of both. If you breathe through the mouth, a full face CPAP mask is the best option for you. It will cover both your mouth and nose to ensure that the CPAP is effective.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE CPAP MASK DOESN’T FIT ME WELL?

An ill-fitting CPAP mask is likely to harm your well-being. You may likely develop some CPAP associated issues such as dry or irritated eyes, a dry or sore throat, nasal congestion, abdominal bloating and frequent sneezing. Remember that you have several options when it comes to CPAP masks. You do not need to have a mask with lots of straps and support to avoid all these issues. There are CPAP masks that do not have headgear but are firm and binding and can work for you. A 3D fitted mask is the most comfortable mask on the market since it fits well and will help avoid complications that come with ill-fitted masks. If you have been suffering from sleep apnea and you suspect your mask is not the right fit for you, then perhaps it’s time to get a custom 3D fitted mask. Contact us at ApneaSeal today and put all your sleeping problems behind you.
sleep apnea

SLEEP APNEA: WHY IS SLEEP SO IMPORTANT?

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
Sleep is important, it is a universal truth, but many people are unaware just how integral it is to the human body. Even small, regular disturbances from disorders such as sleep apnea, snoring and teeth grinding can cause lasting physiological issues. During sleep, the body’s metabolic rate drops, energy is conserved, and important maintenance takes place in the central nervous and cardiovascular systems. This regular upkeep helps maintain hormone balances, boosts the immune system and ensures the brain replenishes its store of chemicals responsible for the storage of short-term memories. The Sleep Health Foundation recommends a healthy adult should sleep seven to nine hours a night to allow the body to undertake its natural repair process. According to the same study, a loss of even just one to two hours of rest in a night can create a higher risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and mental health issues.

STRUGGLING WITH SLEEP APNEA

Aside from poor sleep hygiene, such as not maintaining a consistent sleep pattern, one of the leading causes of sleep loss is sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea, a partial or complete blocking of the throat which causes breathing to stop anywhere from 10 seconds to a minute or more, lowers the blood oxygen level and briefly interrupts the sleep cycle. With episodes occurring frequently, even as often as hundreds of times in one 7 – 9 hour period, many quality hours of sleep can be disrupted. Patients with sleep apnea may often be unaware of their breathing issues, however, being aware of early warning signs such as irritability, night waking and un-refreshing sleep can help with detection. Fortunately for those with conditions like sleep apnea, the symptoms can be lessened with a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. The machine delivers a stream of compressed air preventing obstructions in combination with a CPAP mask which is fitted over the mouth, nose or both. Thankfully, with the use of a CPAP machine most patients can experience reduced disruption and a resumption of normal sleep. Given just how important sleep is to the human body, this is great news for sufferers. To find out more about the risks involved with lack of sleep, or if you’re simply seeking a comfortable fit, visit ApneaSeal.
cpap mask problems

CPAP MASK PROBLEM?

Posted on | by ApneaSeal

Do you have a CPAP Mask Problem?

If you have been recently diagnosed with sleep apnea and you find wearing the CPAP mask intolerable, you are not alone. CPAP therapy may be a great option to ease the most severe symptoms of sleep apnea. However, you may run into trouble with the mask if it’s your first time wearing it. Here are a few examples of a CPAP mask problem and their solutions.

DIFFICULTY GETTING USED TO THE AIR PRESSURE

Some people find it hard to tolerate forced air pressure. You can use a ramp feature that will allow lower, more tolerable pressure. It slowly builds up to the needed pressure for nighttime sleep. If this does not work for you, speak to your doctor about this CPAP mask problem and whether you can switch over to a BPAP machine.

A RUNNY OR STUFFY NOSE AFTER WEARING THE CPAP MASK

Ensure that your mask fits well. A mask that leaks will likely dry out your nose. Your mask won’t fit well if you have to tighten the straps to prevent air leakage, a common CPAP mask problem. You can also check whether your CPAP machine has a heated humidifier. If it does, you can adjust the level of humidification. Consider replacing your CPAP machine if it does not have one.

THE TUBE GETS IN YOUR WAY

You should consider getting a CPAP pillow to use at night. This is particularly imperative if the tube from the mask gets in your way while you are sleeping. The pillow also has a tube fastener to secure the hose and lessen drag on the mask and seal interference. Alternatively, you can get a beaded pillow that shapes readily to the contours of your head and tubing.

THE CPAP MASK IS SIMPLY UNCOMFORTABLE

When you are purchasing a CPAP mask, it is vital to work closely with your physician and CPAP supplier to sort out any CPAP mask problem. Both will ensure that your mask and device fit you correctly and suit your needs. You can ask your CPAP supplier to show you how to get the best fit. Furthermore, read the manufacturer’s instructions to help you get a better idea about proper fit. If you have been suffering from sleep apnea and you suspect your mask is not the right fit for you, then perhaps it’s time to get a custom 3D fitted mask. Contact us at ApneaSeal today and put all your sleeping problems behind you.
cpap mask

THE BENEFITS OF A CPAP MACHINE FOR APNEA SUFFERERS

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
Obstructive sleep apnoea (or apnea) can come with a whole host of other health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and issues related to tiredness. Using a CPAP machine, however, which works to prevent the blocking of the airwaves caused by sleep apnoea, is an effective and recommended method to prevent other problems arising. While a CPAP mask can take a little getting used to (and look at little strange) it can do wonders for your health and wellbeing. The following are just a few reasons you should consider using a CPAP machine if you have sleep apnoea:

A CPAP MACHINE HELPS PREVENT SERIOUS HEART PROBLEMS

One of the biggest health risks of sleep apnoea is that of heart problems caused by nightly breathing restrictions. Stopping breathing on a regular basis can alter a person’s blood pressure and reduce blood oxygen levels, placing great strain on the heart. In this way, untreated sleep apnoea can increase the risk of death from congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease. Using a CPAP machine, however, can reduce these risks down to acceptable levels, giving your heart the care and attention it deserves.

IT REDUCES THE RISK OF STROKE

Strokes are another serious health risk associated with sleep apnoea. Sufferers are two to four times more likely to experience a stroke than non-sufferers, increasing their risk of death and disability. Using a CPAP machine is a simple and effective way of eliminating this risk.

IMPROVING ALERTNESS, CONCENTRATION, AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

As sleep apnoea can have a big impact on the quality of a person’s sleep, it can have some serious consequences for a person’s ability to stay alert, happy and in control on a day to day basis. Indeed, severe cases of sleep apnoea can have hugely detrimental effects on a person’s brain tissue, impacting a person’s ability to store memories and concentrate on simple tasks. Using a CPAP machine, however, is a great way to stop this. New users of the technology will be able to see the difference quickly after starting treatment, giving them a whole new lease of life. For more information on the benefits of CPAP machines and custom masks, visit ApneaSeal.
good night's sleep

HOW TO ENJOY A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP WHEN YOU SUFFER FROM OSA

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
Obstructive sleep apnoea – OSA – can be a thoroughly debilitating condition which invades all aspects of sufferers’ lives. The regular interruption of sleep can have a severe impact on your waking life and increases your risk of developing certain conditions, including high blood pressure and heart disease. So, how do you get a good night’s sleep when you have OSA? Here are a few tips you might find helpful.

BASIC LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Sleep apnoea is usually a condition which affects sufferers over a long-term period; it’s not something that can easily be dealt with using medication. Saying that, your OSA can be significantly eased through relatively simple lifestyle changes. Smoking and drinking are both known to exacerbate the condition, so cutting down on these vices – or even stopping altogether – is advised if you want to get a good night’s sleep. Being obese or overweight is also considered to be a risk factor, so it’s advised that you make a conscious effort to lose weight. Exercising more often could also help! While you might think sleeping medication will help you drift off and sleep through until morning, sedatives have actually been proven to worsen the symptoms of OSA. Instead, try and relax before bed, avoid phone screens in the last hour or so before you go to sleep and sleep on your side, rather than on your back.

MANDIBULAR ADVANCEMENT DEVICES

This device is like a gum shield, fitting around your teeth and holding your jaw and tongue forward to maximise the space at the back of your throat while sleeping. MADs, as they’re often known, can be purchased off the shelf, but it’s recommended that you visit your dentist to have one custom fit. Unfortunately, if you have severe OSA, a MAD may not help – they’re only really designed to alleviate the symptoms of mild obstructive sleep apnoea.

CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY DEVICES

Why not try a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device? As we covered in our recent post, these devices stop your airway closing when you’re sleeping by delivering compressed air through a mask. Other treatments include surgery and soft palate implants, but work through the above first – you may find that simply eating better, exercising and cutting down on smoking and drinking helps you kick those bad nights’ sleep once and for all!
Life with sleep apnea

REALITIES OF LIFE WITH SLEEP APNEA

Posted on | by ApneaSeal

LIFE WITH SLEEP APNEA

Every person wants to get a good night’s sleep – it’s not too much to ask for. Among all other creatures, the human race is the only one that can delay sleeping on purpose. All the other creatures sleep when their body tells them to. However, when you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), most of the times lack of sleep is inevitable. Here are the realities of people living life with sleep apnea.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

Positional therapy

Avoid sleeping on your back. The position makes your throat and tongue muscles to relax and fall back into your airways and block any passage through.

Exercise and diet

If you are an OSA patient and overweight at the same time, you should try and lose weight. Losing weight will reduce the fatty tissue build up in your throat and help in the increase of air flow when sleeping. With diet and exercise, you will notice a drastic positive change in the quality of your sleep and reduction in daytime sleepiness. You also should avoid heavy meals three hours before going to bed.

Smoking, drugs, and alcohol

Reducing or completely reducing your alcohol and smoking consumption will help elevate some OSA issues. Smoke irritates the sensitive tissues in the throat and lungs causing inflammation thus increasing obstructions. Alcohol, on the other hand, relaxes the throat causing them to collapse into the airways leading to an obstruction. Avoid taking alcohol three-four hours before bedtime to reduce the likelihood of obstructions when you sleep.

THE CPAP MACHINE

After getting diagnosed with sleep apnea, a CPAP machine will help you sleep better at night. Getting comfortable sleeping with your CPAP mask will likely be the most challenging part of your treatment. It is appropriate to physically visit your clinic to try out the available masks and choose one that is most comfortable for you.

TRAVELLING WITH SLEEP APNEA

OSA should not stop you from travelling. There are travel specific therapy machines and versatile accessories that will allow you to travel with ease. However, you need to take precaution when travelling such as checking with the airlines about the on-board use and availability of electrical outlets. Pack your CPAP machine as a carry-on and bring your prescription with you. In case you need travel specific therapy machines, ApneaSeal has got you covered. Contact us today for more information on dealing with sleep apnea.
cpap machine care

TAKING CARE OF YOUR CPAP MACHINE

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
For a long time now, you may have been suffering severely from sleep apnea. Finally, help is here and you have your prescription for a CPAP machine. However, you are now probably wondering what you need to know about a CPAP machine. Read on to find out more.

A CPAP MACHINE NEEDS TO BE CLEANED FREQUENTLY

You should know that it’s natural for mould and bacteria to build up in a moist CPAP environment. This can lead to the development of sinus issues and other health problems. At least once a week, clean your headgear and humidifier chamber. Your CPAP mask and tube should be cleaned daily. Ensure that you use unperfumed mild soap and warm water. Do not attempt to clean it using vinegar or bleach.

REPLACE THE SEAL – DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN YOUR MOUTH GEAR

It is time to replace your seal if you have had your mask for a while and it is not sealing as well as before. This happens after continuous tightening of your headgear. You need to understand that seals tend to wear down faster than you think and may produce annoying leaks.

USE DISTILLED WATER

Tap water shortens the life of CPAP machines and the chamber. Often, the bottom of the CPAP humidifier chamber experiences an accumulation of white deposits or even rust. Make sure that you only use distilled water for your CPAP.

STEP OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Some people are born natural mouth breathers and will forever remain so. However, some individuals are mouth breathers as a result of untreated sleep apnea. During sleep apnea treatment, they may re-learn to close their mouths while sleeping. CPAP users are usually given full face masks at the beginning of the process. However, they may feel that they are bulky and uncomfortable. With time, you will get used to wearing the mask while you sleep. You can also try wearing it when you are around the house. Remember that the more you experience the air pressure inside the CPAP mask, the quicker you will get used to sleeping with it. Using CPAP is life changing and a vital step in improving your health and sleep. Contact us today at ApneaSeal for more information about the CPAP machine and how to access it.
Apnea del sueño by COMSALUD licensed under Creative commons 4
sleep disorder

COULD YOU HAVE A SLEEP DISORDER?

Posted on | by ApneaSeal
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder which is thought to affect over 1.5 million people in Australia – or 5% of the population. Most often found in males over the age of 60, OSA involves repeated occurrences of the throat being obstructed – either partially or completely – during a night’s sleep. This can happen numerous times without the subject ever realising they have a medical problem.

COULD YOU BE AFFECTED BY THIS COMMON SLEEP DISORDER?

People who suffer from OSA may not be aware that they have a sleep disorder at all, which explains why up to 90% of occurrences of the condition worldwide are undiagnosed. OSA sufferers tend to snore loudly and toss and turn during the night, which can be disturbing both for them and their partner. The disruptive effects of OSA sometimes manifest themselves through gasping or choking, however, this isn’t always the case. If you do any of the above, it’s likely that your partner will have made you aware. If you are unaware of any of the above occurring during your average sleep, think about whether or not you’re regularly tired during the day, especially during the afternoon. Disrupted sleep could have a big impact on your daily life – people with OSA are two and a half times more likely to be involved in a car accident than others [Source].

WHY YOU SHOULD GET CHECKED

Whether you’re young or old, male or female, if you or a partner has noticed any symptoms of OSA, you should seek a diagnosis from a medical professional. Undiagnosed OSA can lead to increased blood pressure and more serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke or diabetes.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

If you suspect that you may be suffering from OSA, it’s recommended that you consult your local GP who can diagnose your symptoms via a sleep study and, hopefully, improve your condition. Numerous treatments are available, including the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) method.