CPAP is a proven sleep therapy that is effectively used to treat sleep apnea. CPAP machines allow patients to sleep easier whilst avoiding complications that commonly relate to untreated sleep apnea.
At CPAP Ontario, we believe that the more you know about CPAP the more effective your sleep therapy will be. Our guide here provides you with some key tips that you will need to know when using CPAP for the most effective results.
How Does a CPAP Machine Work?
CPAP machines send pressurized air to the users’ airways to keep their airways from closing during sleeping. The air from the machine travels to the patient via a tube and CPAP mask to help ensure the airways remain open during sleep.
Some models of CPAP only provide one fixed air pressure throughout the night, while other auto-adjusting machines change air pressure depending on the minimum amount required. This helps to ensure the patient doesn’t have a sleep apnea event during the night.
Choose The Right CPAP Mask
As a beginner using a CPAP for the first time, you will soon realize that the most important part of the CPAP equipment is the mask.
There are a few different mask types to choose from: full face, nasal, and nasal pillow. Each CPAP has its own benefits, and not every mask suits all users.
The tip is to use a mask that fits the shape of your nose and face with a comfortable fit. Many patients like to get familiar with wearing their CPAP masks before going to bed.
For a breakdown of our recommended CPAP Masks, you can visit our mask product range here.
Practice Using Your CPAP Machine
When starting out using a CPAP machine, it takes patients a while to get comfortable using their new machine. The best way to speed this process up so you don’t have too many sleepless nights is to get comfortable with the CPAP during the day. This way you can see and feel how the CPAP machine will work during the night, so you will feel more comfortable and prepared.
It is also important during the early stages of using your CPAP machine that you stay compliant. At first, it may be difficult even with practice to get used to the equipment, but if you skip a few nights, you will only prolong any adjustment period.
Practice with the CPAP machine really is the best way to master the technique of using the machine in the best possible way. With effective practice and compliance as a user, you will be improving your overall physical and mental health with improved sleep in the long term.
Frequent CPAP Cleaning
To make sure you’re using your CPAP effectively, frequent cleaning of the machine and its equipment is extremely important.
Regular CPAP cleaning is important for the functionality of the machine and the patient’s health. If the machine is left without cleaning, this can cause bacteria to build up in the masks, hoses, and water chambers.
The key is to follow the manufacturers’ cleaning recommendations for cleaning and replacing CPAP equipment.
For a deeper dive into how to clean a CPAP machine effectively, you can read our other blog post here.
Ontario CPAP
CPAP Ontario is dedicated to providing affordable Sleep Apnea equipment to those who need sleep therapy in Canada. We offer products and equipment that is specifically made to help people in Canada improve sleep at an affordable price.
Millions of Canadians have trouble sleeping or suffer from issues relating to sleep. At CPAP Ontario we offer solutions to your sleeping issues with a wide range of products that include advanced technical machinery, masks, and accessories.
For more information on Sleep Apnea in general, and for a breakdown of all our products available, visit our product range here.
