As much as CPAP masks solve a problem by alleviating the symptoms of your sleep apnea, it can also bring in other problems. Well, that’s life for you. Seriously speaking, there are things that you can do to solve the problems brought by your CPAP implements. Here are just a few of them.

Pressure Sores and Skin Irritations

These skin problems are often caused by leaky CPAP masks that allow air to rush into your eyes, skin and nose. Of course, you must consult your doctor when pressure sores and skin irritations develop although you can try these measures when you suspect a leaky mask:

* Adjust the straps and pads to make your mask fit better around your face.
* Lower the mask down the bridge of your nose so as to prevent air from rushing into your eyes.
* Wash your mask and your face daily to ensure that both are clean when they come into contact. Plus, it helps to ensure a better fit.
* Try on a different style or a different size masks until you find the one that’s right for you.

Difficulty Adjusting to the Mask

This is a common problem especially with full-face CPAP masks. To overcome it, you can start by wearing the mask during your waking hours, say, while you are relaxing without the air pressure on. When you have grown accustomed to the feeling, you can then turn on the air pressure and wear it while napping. In this way, you will gradually adjust to the mask.

Irritated by the Noise Made by the CPAP Machine

There are three ways to overcome this particular problem. First, check that the air filter is clean and clear of obstructions since these can contribute to the noise levels. Second, check with the manufacturer to see if it is working properly. And third, use a white noise machine and/or wear earplugs to filter out the CPAP machine’s noise.

Also, consider letting your long-suffering bedmate avail of the services of a white noise device, too. Keep in mind that he/she also suffers m your condition albeit in a different way.

Mask Is Accidentally Removed While Sleeping

During the first few nights, this can become a source of sleeplessness especially since leaky CPAP masks will blow air into the face, hence, waking you up. And of course, there’s the first problem of skin irritations.

You must ensure a good fit, again, by experimenting with various styles and sized although a full-face mask is highly recommended for this particular problem. Also, consider using a chin strap to hold your mask in place.

The key to wearing CPAP masks is to make sure that these fit you perfectly, that you get used to them gradually, and that you try to live with them graciously. As much as you don’t want your condition, you also don’t want to suffer through its fatal symptoms day in and day out. Plus, think of your family and friends who care for you and wants to see you live longer! So, starting right now, try to become friends with CPAP masks and machines.

CPAP Clinic - healthcare at your home
We serve Greater Toronto Area in Canada.
Contact: 1-877-430-CPAP(2727) or info@CPAPClinic.ca

If you are one of those people who take sleep apnea for granted, be warned. When the body undergoes frequent episodes of oxygen deprivation during sleep, the likelihood of risking your heart’s health is high. Avert this dread disaster with use of the CPAP machine in conjunction with the CPAP face or nasal mask. Here’s why.

How a CPAP Machine Cares for Your Heart

What happens if you do not get enough oxygen when sleeping? That is a question doctors have answered. According to recent Ohio University State Medical Center, oxygen deprivation has shown to affect the heart . It was observed that patients who test positive for sleep apnea usually have enlarged hearts but after sleep apnea treatment with the use of the CPAP machine, their hearts showed a significant size reduction.

It is a fact that sleep apnea causes high blood pressure, stroke, and lead to diabetes if left untreated. The findings at the Ohio State University Medical Center also confirm previous findings that sleep apnea can worsen existing heart conditions. However the good doctors of the Ohio University State Medical Center aren’t sure if the reduction of the enlarged heart is due to the use of sleep apnea machine.

Well, it could be safe to surmise that a good rest and adequate and continuous supply of oxygen during sleep makes the body feel better. When the tissues of body organs are well-oxygenated, they produce healthy cells to replace lost cells. This explains why exercising regularly is recommended.

How does the CPAP machine fit into the scheme of things? The machine produces pressurized air that continuously passes through the tubing attached to the face mask. The air is directed towards the nose constantly ensuring adequate supply of air to the air passageways and into the heart, lungs, and other vital organs that need oxygen.

Choosing the CPAP Machine

Selecting a sleep apnea machine is not much of an issue. It is important though that you get one that provides good airflow pressure for your type of sleep apnea. The hose should be flexible and the mask should be comfortable enough. The entire treatment package contains all of these so check each item carefully.

The interface or the mask, should feel comfortable on your face. There are at least for now, three types of CPAP masks available. You can test the full face mask, nasal mask, and nasal pillow. However, just because everybody is saying that the full face mask is uncomfortable or a nasal pillow mask seems barely there at all, check it out. Try it on to be able note the differences and their separate pros and cons.

Do not rush. Since sleep apnea machines and masks come in one kit, you can test each model at home by renting the kit. Testing the CPAP machine at home gives you more flexibility when making a choice about your purchase. Of course, none of the interface or masks are 100 percent comfortable; you have been sleeping all those years without a gadget glued to your face so you might feel a tickle here, discomfort on the pressure points of your face, or discover you develop allergies to the materials used.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea seek medical evaluation immediately because your heart is at stake. That CPA machine can save your poor heart.

CPAP Clinic - healthcare at your home
We serve Greater Toronto Area in Canada.
Contact: 1-877-430-CPAP(2727) or info@CPAPClinic.ca