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BiPAP Machine Comparison Guide: Phillips Respironics PR System One Pro vs. Devilbiss IntelliPAP BiLevel S

Friday, September 10th, 2010

The following information is a comparison guide for BiPAP machines.  If you were recently diagnosed with Sleep Apnea and prescribed a BiPAP machine by your physician, the good news is that technology has advanced significantly in the past few years.  The bad news is that BiPAP machines are generally more expensive than a standard CPAP machine.

A Brief Summary of BiPAP Machines/VPAP Machines/BiLevel Machines

Although BiPAP or BiLevel machines function similarly to standard CPAP’s during inhalation(IPAP), it differs on the exhalation pressure (EPAP). In its most basic difference, BiPAP machines deliver a pressure relief or drop during exhalation to allow for patients to breathe more comfortably and closer to their normal breathing pattern. Because BiPAP machines are generally used for sleep apnea patients with higher than average pressure – typically 15cm and over, this exhalatory pressure relief is especially noticeable to patients by allowing them to exhale without struggling against a strong constant pressure. The differential between the IPAP and EPAP pressures or pressure support must be determined by a sleep study.  In fact, the EPAP pressure of a BiPAP machine can reduce to the machines lowest setting of 4cm while the IPAP can be 15cm or higher. BiPAP machines appear to be particularly helpful for patients with coexisting lung disease and those with excessive levels of carbon dioxide.  This function provides for a more comfortable CPAP experience and, thus, a higher compliance rate.

BiPAP machines typically have three modes of operation which increase the functional complexity and are used for an increasing array of breathing difficulties.

  • Spontaneous – switching between inspiratory and expiratory as the BiPAP machine senses the switch in breathing.
  • Timed – switching between inspiratory and expiratory at a programmed rate to ensure the prescribed breaths per minute rate is maintained.
  • Spontaneous/Timed(ST) – switches as it senses the change in breathing. Timed mode functions as a failsafe to ensure breathing at the required breathes per minute rate is maintained.

Phillips Respironics PR One BiPAP PRO BiPAP Machine vs. Devilbiss IntelliPAP BiLevel S BiPAP Machine Comparason

Because the Respironics PR System One BiPAP Pro and the Devilbiss IntelliPAP BiLevel S are spontaneous BiPAP machines, there are a few obvious similarities.  Each BiPAP sleep therapy system has wide pressure ranges (PR one 4-25cm, IntelliPAP 3-25cm).  Additionally, the IPAP and EPAP differential can be as great as 22cm.  Both can be operated in either the standard BiPAP or CPAP mode.  As typical with BiPAP machines, ramps are adjustable, altitude adjustment is automatic and each has optional integrated heated humidifiers.

Both have exceptionally small footprints which fit easily onto a night table or into carry-on luggage.  The Devilbiss IntelliPAP BiPAP machine weighs 4.45lbs including the humidifier and has dimensions of 6.5” x 8.4” x 6.4”.  The PR One Pro BiPAP machine weighs in at 4.85lbs including humidifier and with dimensions of 7″ x 10.75″x 4″.  In essence, the Devilbiss IntelliPAP is a cube while the PR One BiPAP Pro is rectangular.

Functionally, both the PR System One BiPAP Pro and the IntelliPAP BiLevel S BiPAP machines detect the most important aspects of BiPAP sleep therapy including Apnea and Hypopnea events, Leak Detection and Compensation, Breath Rate and other respiratory events.  Additionally, each system is able to record and download each night sleep therapy diagnostics.

Advanced Technology

This is where the BiPAP machines begin to differ and the superior technology of Phillips Respironics shines through.  Devillbiss IntelliPAP algorithm includes a function termed Flow-Rounding.  Essentially, Flow-Rounding technology is a scalable setting which softens the transition from inhalation to exhalation (IPAP to EPAP).  This technology is especially important when the transition or flow ratio between the IPAP and EPAP settings are significant.  This comfort feature has become quite popular and adopted by most manufacturers.

The Phillips Respironics PR System One BiPAP machine utilizes similar technology called Bi-Flex.   Bi-Flex pressure relief technology offers pressure relief at inhalation and exhalation to make BiPAP machine therapy more like natural breathing. By tracking each breath, Bi-Flex pressure relief technology delivers pressure relief at three critical points in the breathing cycle: The transition from exhalation to inhalation, inhalation to exhalation, and during exhalation.  Moreover, PR System One Resistance Control achieves complete system comfort by enabling the device and mask to work optimally together. This technology instructs the device to compensate for variable resistance characteristics related to different masks. The result is synchronous pressure delivery and the assurance patients can enjoy the full benefits of the PR System One’s Flex comfort technologies no matter which mask is used.  Condensation in the hose or rainout is also corrected with a humidity control function.  By analyzing ambient temperature, relative humidity and patient flow, the device delivers optimum humidity to the patient while also dramatically reducing rainout.

Finally, the PR System One BiPAP machine addresses advanced sleep assessment parameters including AHI, large leak, flow limitation and RERAs that help determine appropriate clinical management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).  Another advancement is the PR System One’s ability to point out when the patient is experiencing symptoms beyond classic OSA and indicate the potential need for specialized therapy. The PR System One can now verify all events by looking at detailed patient flow waveform data captured by the device.

The Final Word on BiPAP Machines

Although the BiPAP machines have similarities, the differences, primarily in the technology, make it necessary to understand what is necessary and what is non-essential in a patients sleep therapy.  Clearly, the Phillips Respironics PR System One BiPAP machine is technologically superior to the Devilbiss IntelliPAP.  Nevertheless, the more advanced technology does not always present the best value for everyone.  Thus, it is essential for patients to understand what is optimal for their sleep therapy and consult with a physician and CPAP equipment supplier to determine the most effective treatment options.

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CPAP Supplies Improve Sleep Apnea Patients’ Health and Well-Being

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Sleep apnea is simply the absence of breath while you sleep.  This disorder can lead to serious fatigue and other health problems such as cardiovascular conditions, due to a lack of oxygen in the body during the night.  Luckily, the most common form of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, is very treatable with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

Since CPAP supplies, and the machines they are used with, are considered medical equipment, you will need a prescription from your doctor in order to purchase them.  It is necessary that you participate in a sleep study in order to find out with kind of apnea you have, if any, to decide on the best course of treatment.  After getting a diagnosis and prescription, it is easy to purchase the equipment you need.

In recent years with more people being diagnosed, the technological advancements in CPAP machines have been substantial.  The most advanced machines, such as ResMed’s S9 AutoSet, no longer deliver a constant pressure to the patient.  In contrast, the S9 AutoSet changes with the breathing pattern of the patient.  The device is able to read and react to the breathing of the patient on a breath-by-breath basis, eliminating the need to adjust settings.  In addition, ResMed’s S9 AutoSet offers climate control, which automatically adjusts the humidity and temperature of the delivered air, which protects the patient from rainout and delivers optimum comfort during treatment.

The CPAP machines are not the only supplies that have progressed over the years.  CPAP masks come in a wide variety of styles and have become more comfortable and easy to use.  Finding a comfortable mask can be a daunting task, as there are many on the market.  ResMed’s Mirage SoftGel Nasal Mask is a comfortable, easy to use model that improves patient compliance.  There are two layers of gel cushions that offer high levels of comfort and stability.  The cushion adapts to the contours of the face, which make fitting easier and the mask has small vents, which diffuse air quietly.

Patients who suffer from sleep apnea are required to sleep with equipment such as this.  While the equipment can take some getting used to, it is highly beneficial to take the time to adjust to the new lifestyle as it can improve the patient’s overall health and general well-being.

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Style and Technology: Resmed S9 Auto CPAP Machine Has it All

Wednesday, August 18th, 2010

Recent studies suggest that approximately one in every five adults suffer from sleep disordered breathing (SDB).  Many of these people (roughly 80%) go undiagnosed and never receive treatment. The negative impact on public health is profound, with sleep problems contributing to cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and increased relative risk of heart failure.  These risks can be lessened with treatment from a CPAP machine.

ResMed’s AutoSet APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) devices are designed to regulate air pressure into the body to alleviate SDB and apnea symptoms.  The devices provide minimum pressure required at each point in time, which greatly improves comfort and usability.  Using automated pressure provides better sleep and a 37% reduction in median treatment pressure than by using a manual CPAP machine.  In addition, the devices respond to varying needs for pressure on a breath-by-breath basis.

The S9 AutoSet device by ResMed is the premium APAP device in the S9 series.  The device provides an excellent combination of Automatic Positive Airway Pressure and Easy-Breathe Expiratory Relief Pressure to prevent the collapse of the upper airway during sleep.  The enhanced AutoSet continually monitors breathing, in order to provide the optimal therapy at the lowest, most comfortable pressure.

The S9 AutoSet also provides climate control, which adapts to your climate and adjusts accordingly, sending the optimal temperature and humidity right to the mask.  The climate control also prevents rainout, or condensation that forms in the tubing, which greatly increases comfort and ease of use.

In addition, The ResMed CPAP S9 AutoSet is designed to be quiet; the Easy-Breathe motor eliminates noise, which results in a peaceful sleeping environment.  The design of the device features foam and noise isolating materials, which result in noise no louder than normal breathing.

Finally, the S9 AutoSet provides compliance management.  Both patients and clinicians can easily monitor the therapy, thus ensuring that any problems are discovered and addressed at the earliest opportunity.

There are three ways to prove patient compliance:  data on the device via the Sleep Quality Indicator and Sleep Report, an SD card with high resolution data for every device, and modules for remote and direct download.  The Sleep Quality Indicator allows patients to view a “snapshot” of their therapy, provides daily feedback and encouragement and identifies usage, leak and AHI information.  The Sleep Report offers compliance and therapy data for up to 365 days, which includes average usage, used hours, days used, run hours and pressure.

ResMed’s S9 AutoSet provides optimal therapy for people with apnea and SDB.

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ResMed CPAP: Coping with Positive Airway Pressure Treatment

Wednesday, August 18th, 2010

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) differs from standard snoring in that the air passages in the throat completely close up, preventing oxygen from getting to the body tissues.  A common side effect from OSA is excessive tiredness, though OSA can also be linked to life threatening disorders such as high blood pressure, hypertension, stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), and congestive heart failure.  While there is no definitive cure for OSA, positive airway pressure treatment can effectively control sleep apnea, as long as the treatment is continued.

While losing weight and reducing alcohol intake can reduce the severity of mild OSA and surgical and dental procedures exist, the most simple and effective treatment is positive pressure airway treatment.  ResMed designs both CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) devices and APAP (automatic positive airway pressure) devices.  ResMed CPAP devices deliver air at a fixed pressure, which prevents apnea while you sleep by keeping the upper airway open.  The amount of necessary air pressure is determined by a sleep study and is unique to each patient.  On the other hand, ResMed’s APAP machines continually adjust the amount of necessary air pressure by monitoring your breathing throughout the night and changing the amount of pressure you need on a breath by breath basis.

Each device also requires the use of a mask, which can take some getting used to and patients can normally adjust to the mask within one to two weeks.  The most common mask is a nasal mask, which only covers the nose.  ResMed makes a large line of comfortable and effective nasal masks that suit different facial structures.  The nasal mask should fit snuggly and create a good seal on your face, so air doesn’t leak out.  ResMed also makes full face masks for patients that breathe through their mouths while they sleep.  These masks form a seal over both the nose and the mouth.  If you use a nasal mask and still continue to snore, it may be a good idea to research full face masks in an effort to alleviate the problem.

Using a CPAP or APAP machine should not inhibit your lifestyle greatly.  ResMed designs their machines to be portable and they can run on virtually any power supply.  If overseas, all you will need is a plug adapter and some airlines have approved ResMed’s devices for use on long haul aircraft as long as your provide documentation from your doctor or sleep clinic.

You may find that you have irritation in the nose after treatment begins.  The cool, dry air of the treatment can cause a runny nose or sneezing in a lot of patients, but this normally settles down after a few days to a week.  If the problem persists, you should consider a heated humidifier for your machine, which will add warmth and moisture to the air.  If you have a CPAP machine, the pressure may need to be adjusted slightly by your doctor if a humidifier is used.  If you are using a ResMed APAP device, the pressure will automatically compensate for the humidifier.

Using a ResMed CPAP or APAP device is a simple and effective way to treat OSA and while it may take some getting used to, you should notice an immediate improvement in the quality of your lifestyle.

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Batteries Needed When Traveling with Your CPAP Machine

Wednesday, August 18th, 2010

Since CPAP users want to avoid sleeping without their CPAP machine, traveling with the device is unavoidable.  Luckily, traveling with a CPAP machine is much easier than it used to be, since the devices are smaller and lighter than ever before.  CPAP manufacturers have worked very hard to improve portability and usability for traveling patients.

Certain things should be taken into consideration when traveling with your CPAP machine such as where you are traveling to and how long your flight is.  If you are traveling to Europe, you must always remember to purchase a plug adapter so you can still use your CPAP machine.  If your trip includes a long flight, you must remember to keep your battery charged so you can use it during your flight.  Using a CPAP machine during a flight has become common in recent years, so it should not be an issue, though you should still carry a letter from your doctor as a precaution.

If you intend to go on a camping trip, a battery specifically for your CPAP machine is highly recommended.  While many camp grounds do have electrical outlets, it is still advised to have a battery as a failsafe.  If, however, you prefer “primitive” camping, a battery is a must-have, since an outlet will not be at your disposal.  While not having an outlet may seem like a problem for charging your battery, it is not the case.  You can simply purchase an adapter for the car cigarette lighter, which will allow you to charge the battery at your convenience.

It is important to choose the right battery for your needs.  The lithium ion, C-222 CPAP Battery is a universal battery that works with any CPAP machine.  It is important to check with your supplier or manufacturer as ResMed’s S8 requires a DC-12 converter.  The C-222 CPAP Battery contains high capacity, lithium-ion cells, delivers 12 volts of output, and holds and incredibly long charge, depending on your CPAP setting – at a pressure rating of 4, the battery works for 25 hours and at a pressure rating of 20, it works for 9 hours.    As the battery is designed for travel, it is light-weight at 4.8 lbs. and comes with a carrying case to make traveling with it as easy as possible.  In addition, the C-222 CPAP Battery includes built in circuitry protection against thermal run-away (overheating) and a 1 year warranty.  There is also a larger battery which doubles the CPAP machine’s use time.

With the C-222 CPAP Battery, you should be able to travel without sleep therapy interruption.  The sleek, portable and affordable battery is perfect for any CPAP user that travels often.  It will allow you to use your CPAP machine at your convenience – no matter where you are.

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Sleep Apnea: The Proper Treatment

Friday, August 13th, 2010

Sleep apnea is a common disorder and can adversely affect your health if not properly treated. In addition to treatment prescribed by your doctor, there are also lifestyle changes you can make to further help with your disorder.

  • Quit Smoking: Cigarette smoke irritates your mouth and throat, which can further exacerbate your sleep apnea.
  • Weight Loss: Losing weight may be the single most important lifestyle change you could make, both for your overall health and for the treatment of sleep apnea. Losing weight is a daunting task and any patient should be sure to use a safe and effective exercise regimen.
  • Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives: Alcohol and sedatives relax the muscles in the throat, which makes sleep apnea more severe. Alcohol should not be consumed for at least 4 hours before going to sleep. If your doctor prescribes you with a sedative, you should tell him/her that you have sleep apnea.
  • Side/Stomach Sleeping: Many patients find that sleeping on their back triggers sleep apnea. By sleeping on your side or your stomach, you may find that the apnea is lessened.

Along with these lifestyle changes, your doctor will most likely recommend a sleep apnea device and mask to wear during the night. The most important thing to remember about wearing a sleep apnea mask is compliance; you have to wear it regularly for it to have any effect. Finding the right mask for you is imperative, since having a comfortable mask means you will be willing to wear it every night. There are many masks out there, so the biggest question is which one you should choose.

Fisher & Paykel’s Zest nasal CPAP mask is very popular and comfortable, combining a new Easy-Clip Silicone Seal and Advanced Air Diffuser with proven FlexiFit technology, which guarantees comfort, ease of use and reliability. The inner Auto-Contouring Foam Cushion automatically adjusts to nasal and facial contours without the need for complicated adjustments. The outer Easy-Clip Silicone Seal provides a perfect seal, which stops any air from your CPAP machine from leaking out, which guarantees effective treatment.

The Advanced Air Diffuser on Fisher & Paykel’s Zest nasal CPAP mask disperses airflow away from the sleeper and sleep partner and minimizes noise. The new breathable elastic headgear is specially designed to maintain a comfortable, firm seal, while Fisher & Paykel’s Glider Straps and Clips distribute pressure equally across the face and automatically adjust the mask alignment during sleep.

Along with lifestyle changes, finding the most effective and comfortable mask is imperative. Fisher & Paykel’s Zest nasal CPAP mask is comfortable and practical and may be the right mask for your needs.

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Taking Care of Your CPAP Supplies: CPAP Supply Maintenance

Friday, August 13th, 2010

Taking good care of your CPAP supplies especially your CPAP mask is imperative in order to keep sleep therapy equipment functioning at a high level. In addition, keeping your CPAP mask clean is optimal for your health since you will potentially be breathing in the germs and bacteria that could enter the lungs and cause infections. Cleaning the CPAP masks can also help prolong the life, optimize its effectiveness and maintain efficient therapy.

Cleaning your CPAP supplies is a relatively easy process. The most important thing to remember is to never use an alcohol based solvent to clean your CPAP equipment. Alcohol can break down cushions, tubing and other plastic and rubber parts. CPAP mask cleaner such as Citrus II, a mixture with a corn, coconut, and citrus base, will not harm the cushion or other components of your CPAP mask or tubing. CPAP mask wipes also work well for a quick, daily cleaning. We advised that your spray your CPAP mask surface daily, rinse with water and allow it to dry before using it again. Daily cleaning will prolong the longevity of your mask’s parts, reducing overall replacement parts cost.

Your CPAP mask is not the only component that needs cleaning. You should regularly clean your CPAP tubing and replace the CPAP machine filters. Moreover, if you have a heated humidifier, this should be taken apart and cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Make sure to get each part completely free of soap residue before drying. Some new humidifier chambers are dish washer safe(please check your owners manual). Once the CPAP humidifier parts are completely air-dried, simply put the machine and humidifier back together and reconnect the CPAP tubing and mask.

Sometimes, even if the parts are well taken care of, some CPAP supplies especially your CPAP mask will break. If the part is replaceable, it will be much less expensive to replace the part instead of the entire CPAP mask. For example, mask cushions break down over time and will prevent your mask from forming an adequate seal. In this case, you can replace just the cushion rather than replacing the whole mask. Another example is the heated humidifier chamber. Over time, even if the machine is well taken care of and cleaned regularly, you will notice that the chamber develops a film; this is normal. It is a sign that it may be time to replace your heated humidifier chamber.

In addition, there are other numerous CPAP accessories that need to be replaced. With CPAP tubing being exposed to constant moisture and stretching, it will begin to degrade and build up bacteria. Thus, CPAP tubing should be replaced a few times a year. In addition, CPAP supplies such as CPAP mask headgear and clips can easily fray or break and will need to be replaced for optimal sleep therapy conditions.

Keeping your CPAP equipment and supplies clean will help prolong their usefulness and maximize your sleep therapy experience. However, like most medical equipment, CPAP equipment will need to be replaced from time to time. By taking care of your CPAP supplies through cleaning and routine maintenance, you will reduce your long run out of pocket expense.

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Philips Respironics System One CPAP Machine Features

Monday, August 9th, 2010
If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, then your doctor will most likely prescribe a CPAP machine and CPAP mask. While some changes in lifestyle and diet may improve your sleep apnea symptoms, the most effective treatment is still a CPAP machine. Wearing a CPAP mask can initially be uncomfortable, continuing the treatment is essential to adjust to wearing your mask. Wearing the mask during the daytime hours, when you are awake, is an easy way to get used to your new mask and machine. Finding a comfortable, correctly sized mask is also essential, as well as finding the right machine that will offer optimal air pressure when you need it.

Philips Respironics’ ComfortGel Blue is an improvement over previous models of the ComfortGel series.The Respironics CPAP mask reduces pressure points, minimizes noise and redirects exhalation air flow away from your bed partner, making the mask convenient both for you and your significant other. The soft, pliable blue gel in the mask adapts and contours to facial features, while the premium head gear is easy to use and provides a proper seal. The increased comfort of the ComfortGel Blue ensures patient compliance, which increases the effectiveness of CPAP treatment. Philips Respironics’ ComfortGel Blue is latex free.

In addition to finding the right mask, determining the optimal CPAP machine can be overwhelming. The Philips Respironics PR System One device utilizes advanced intelligence to provide optimum care and patient management. As opposed to older machines that are set to a single constant air pressure, the PR System One device uses smart technology that delivers constantly changing air flow that is designed to fit your needs.With the PR System One working in with your mask through the use of simple settings, the technology instructs the machine to compensate for the resistance of your particular mask.By using advanced humidity control technology, the PR System One device can compensate for ever-changing environmental conditions.By analyzing ambient temperature, relative humidity and patient flow, the device delivers optimum humidity – and ultimate comfort – to the patient while also dramatically reducing rainout.

The Philips Respironics CPAP System One device also includes an advanced even detection system that allows patients to make more informed decisions by monitoring apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), large leak, flow limitation, and respiratory effort-related arousals (RERAs). This ensures that the patient is able to determine appropriate clinical management.The most important advancement, however, is the ability of the device to point out when a patient is experiencing symptoms beyond classic OSA. With a system that can immediately identify clear airway apneas and periodic breathing, the device can indicate the potential need for specialized therapy.

Finding the correct mask and machine can increase your lifestyle, comfort and overall quality of life.With the Philips Respironics ComfortGel Blue mask and System One device, patients are guaranteed comfort and results.

Chris Vasta of The CPAP Shop. Family owned and operated since 2003, we are CPAP specialists and our first priority is our customer and their satisfaction. We supply only the top manufacturers apnea CPAP products for sleep therapy including CPAP machines, Respironics CPAP , masks and accessories.

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Relationships Involving Sleep Apnea Can Benefit from CPAP Machines

Monday, August 9th, 2010
Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can lead to rifts in relationships with significant others.The symptoms of sleep apnea like loud snoring, tossing and turning during the night, gasping for air and choking, drowsiness, and headaches can be as trying on the patient as on the patient’s significant other. In addition, sleep apnea can cause a reduction in sexual function and a decreased desire for intimacy.All of this can put heavy strain on a relationship.

In addition to a doctor likely recommending lifestyle changes such a weight loss, quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and certain medications, and keeping a solid and regular sleep schedule, the doctor may prescribe a CPAP machines.While wearing the mask may take some getting used to for both you and your partner, the benefits far outweigh the initial discomfort.A reduction in snoring and tossing and turning as well as an increase in energy can easily be attained through regular use of a CPAP device.

ResMed’s S9 AutoSet device removes the need for a patient to enter constant sleep studies to change the settings on his/her CPAP machine. The AutoSet detects the difference between an open and closed airway and treats them accordingly. During the night, the machine automatically changes the amount of air pressure provided, ensuring the patient is always receiving optimum treatment.In addition, the S9 AutoSet is incredibly quiet, which is convenient for both you and your partner.

Respironics, another CPAP manufacturer, features the PR System One REMstar Auto CPAP machines.The device features System One Resistance Control, which through simple settings, instructs the device to compensate for variable resistance characteristics related to different masks.The System One device also delivers the right pressure relief for every breath, catering to the patient’s needs.

By seeking treatment for your sleep deficiencies, your overall health can easily improve, as can the relationship you have with your significant other.No more tossing and turning, no more snoring keeping your partner awake, and no more worries.

Chris Vasta of The CPAP Shop. Family owned and operated since 2003, we are CPAP Resmed specialists and our first priority is our customer and their satisfaction. We supply only the top manufacturers for sleep therapy including CPAP machines, masks and accessories.

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Best Practices for Using Your CPAP Machine

Monday, July 19th, 2010

Using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) keeps air passages open, making breathing easier. However, a large percentage of people who purchase CPAP machines stop using them, despite the obvious benefits. There are many common problems that patients experience while using the device, and most have simple solutions.

Stuffy noses are one of the most common side effects of using a CPAP machine, and can be reduced or avoided by following these tips.

  • Spray a saline nasal spray 6 to 8 times in each nostril before using the CPAP machine. You can purchase this spray in a drug store or make it yourself by measuring one-quarter teaspoon of salt into one cup of boiled or distilled water, filling a clean nasal spray bottle or using a bulb syringe. You can also try using a nasal decongestant, but you should check with your doctor first.
  • Many CPAP machines come with a humidifier that adds moisture to the forced air, which should reduce nasal congestion.
  • Make sure to clean the mask and tubing every day; it only takes a few minutes to use a Citrus mask wipe or spray. In addition to daily cleanings, you should thoroughly wash the mask and tubing with soap and hot water, even using some rubbing alcohol periodically to disinfect the tubing. If, at any time, the tubing begins to leak during the cleaning, it is a sign that the tubing should be replaced. Also, you should check the condition of your mask cushions to see if they need to be replaced.

When you first start using the CPAP machine, you may feel that the air pressure in your mask is too strong. This is a very common problem, and there are a few steps to take to reduce the feeling.

  • Never reduce the CPAP air pressure setting without first consulting your doctor. Reducing the air pressure in your CPAP device can potentially lower your oxygen intake and result in serious health issues.
  • An easy way to acclimate yourself to the new machine is to use it while you are awake. You can set the “ramp” at a low level of pressure and the device will automatically raise the air pressure at a gradual rate. Using the device while reading or watching television should help you to get used to the increase in air pressure.

Sometimes people who use CPAP machines wake up with a sore throat. This may be the result of breathing through your mouth while you are asleep. To help keep your mouth closed while you sleep, you may want to attach a chinstrap to your mask, or you may want to get a full-face mask that covers your nose and mouth, and turn on the humidifier so that the air going through your throat is moist. In addition, another thing that might help with your sore throat is to make sure to use the filters on your CPAP machine.

The filters on your CPAP machine not only prolong the life of the machine, but they also remove irritants from the air that could potentially go down your throat. Your machine probably has both foam and ultra-fine filters, and you should check them regularly to make sure they are clean. Foam filters should be washed once per week and should be replaced after 6 months of use. Ultra-fine filters, however, cannot be reused and need to be replaced every 2 weeks.

Another maintenance task you should perform on your CPAP machine is to check the air pressure with a manometer every six months. This will ensure that the pressure reading on the machine is accurate.

Another common problem with CPAP machines is air leaking out of the mask, which can result in red eyes, snoring, and a risk of cessation of breathing. If this is the case, you can try the following tips to help solve the problem:

  • Adjust the straps on your mask so that the fit is better.
  • Regularly check the condition of both your mask and your cushions. It is recommended to purchase a new mask or new cushions every 3 to 6 months, or as necessary because of wear and tear.
  • Try a different type of mask or different nasal pillows; some masks will mold better to the shape of your face.
  • Talk to your doctor and CPAP supplier until you find the correct fit.

Another indication of an incorrectly fitting mask is the appearance of red or sore spots on your face from the straps. Loosening the straps on the mask can alleviate the discomfort, but you must make sure that the mask is still tight enough to prevent leaking. Another method available to you is to use pads to cover the straps, which will prevent chaffing. If neither of these solutions solves your problem, you may want to consider trying a different type of mask. If you decide to purchase a new mask, you should speak to your CPAP provider about the problem; they will be able to offer you suggestions.

Bio: Anthony Zadnik operates TheCPAPShop.com, a leading online retailer of CPAP equipment, located in New Jersey. He understands the importance of education about CPAP equipment so that sleep apnea sufferers will continue to use their machines. Tony has recently been recommending the Resmed CPAP S9 machine.

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