Frequently Asked Questions

For the quickest way to get answers to all your questions concerning our products and web site, please send us an email. We will either respond via email or call you. Please provide a contact number. For questions concerning products, product use, shipments and services, please email us at questions@thecpapshop.com

How often should I replace my nasal pillows and tubing?
With regular care, nasal pillows should last several months but will vary by patient. Worn nasal pillows should be replaced to eliminate leaks. Tubing replacement also varies by patient but should be replaced a few times per year.

Where can I get reliable information on Sleep Apnea?
WebSciences.org is a very good site for articles, research and email notifications for newly released books and articles.

Additionally, we have some links on our customer service page which will provide up to date information.

What is the difference between Resmed's?
Shallow means that the top of the mask has a small cutout for the bridge of the nose. It generally is used for a less prominent nasal bridge. Standard has a larger cutout to allow for a larger bridge.

My CPAP machine is five years old. Should I get a new one?
Manufacturers create new and more effective CPAP models each year. There isn't any need to replace your CPAP unit because it is 5 years old but a malfunction could be dangerous. Has your unit been inspected yearly and are the pressure settings are accurate? Filters should be changed regularly. Ask the CPAP Shop what new features are available in order for you to continue using CPAP with greater comfort and convenience.

What kind of mask do I need?
Using the right mask is essential to the success of your treatment. You will need a mask this is comfortable and fits properly. It should form a good seal on your face so that air doesn't leak as this would be uncomfortable and make your therapy less effective.

A nasal mask which covers the nose is the most common. However, some people breath through their mouth when they sleep. In this case, a full face mask that covers both the nose and mouth is the best option.

Another option would be a nasal mask and chinstrap. This will prevent the jaw from opening during sleep and still provide for effective therapy.

When I wake up in the morning I see strap marks on my face. Is that a problem?
If the marks resolve quickly after awakening, then it's not really an issue. If however, the marks progress toward pressure sores, then your mask is to tight. Remember, a tight fit is not necessarily a proper fit. A common error is to pull the headgear straps very tight. Newer masks are made of thinner, softer material which allows the mask to respond to body heat, thereby negating the need for pressure to ensure a leak free fit. Also, if you have persistent issues with masks, a zinc-oxide based adhesive tape on the sensitive areas may help alleviate the problem.

I have OSA and I need to buy a bipap machine?
The first thing which needs to be done is to get a written prescription for the BiPap and its settings. Unless it is an Auto BiPAP, a IPAP and EPAP setting will be required. We suggest contacting us to determine different features and functionality for each BiPAP machine and mask. We can be reached via email at contact@thecpapshop.com or by phone at 866-414-9700.

Last night was my first night wearing the CPAP mask. It was very uncomfortable. What can I do?
A common error is to secure the mask too tightly. While you are laying in bed, lay the mask on your face. Connect the headgear so the mask is snug but not tight. If you have a problem with leaking, the mask size could be the issue. There are many designs of masks, with different features intended to make the CPAP experience as comfortable and effective as possible. If the mask does not fit well, and is not comfortable, a person is less likely to be compliant. It is crucial to find a mask that is comfortable. We are always available to consult with you on different types and styles of masks.

I've had my CPAP machine 3 weeks and continue to sneeze all day. What may be causing this?
Perhaps your having an allergic reaction to the cleaner your using. If you are using humidity, try using distilled water. If neither of these help, perhaps your allegic to the material in CPAP mask. If the problem continues, please consult with us at contact@thecpapshop.com for further assistance.

How much difference does it make on a CPAP machine's setting to go from a 6 foot to an 8 foot hose?
It should not affect the pressure much but continue to monitor how you feel. If necessary, the machine will need to be adjusted slightly to suit your needs. We also have a hand held pressure meter which will allow you to measure the pressure at the end of the tube.

I've heard there are great new masks and headgear on the market. Should I try them out?
Only if you're having trouble with your current mask or headgear. Getting the proper fit is crucial in CPAP. A good fitting mask does not leak around the edges, doesn't leave pressure marks or cause pressure sores. Many of the newer CPAP masks available are made from softer, more pliable materials which provide a more comfortable fit with fewer leaks. Contact us at The CPAP Shop to understand the options available to you.

Will you bill my insurance company?
To maintain our extremely low pricing, we do not deal directly with insurance companies.

Nevertheless, we are listed by many insurance companies as an Out of Network provider. We cannot determine your particular level of reimbursement, if any. However, we are an Out of Network provider for Blue Cross/Blue Shield in PA. Our provider number is 1743518 which you can provide to any Blue Cross/Blue Shield in the US.

We suggest you call your insurance company to get the paperwork and details on submitting a claim. We will work with you and provide you with the codes your insurance company requires. Please remember that this small amount of work will save you plenty of money in the long run.

How do you ship and what are your shipping costs?
Standard shipping is with USPS Priority Mail or UPS. Our standard shipping rate for within the continental U.S. is $7.75 for orders less than $100. For orders over $100, shipping is free. Overnight shipping is also available with in stock items. The cost for overnight shipping is $46.75 for CPAP Machines and $32.75 for non-CPAP machines. We also have standard rates for other parts of the world. If an international rate is not listed, please send us an email so we can determine the correct shipping rate.

How do I know if I need a full face mask?
Here is a checklist to determine if a full face mask is right for you.

-Do you often wake up with a dry mouth and/or throat?

-Do you tend to breathe through your mouth rather than your nose?

-Do you suffer from allergies?

-Do you have a blocked nose or congestion at certain times of the year?

-Have you ever had a broken nose?

-Have you ever had nasal surgery?

-Do you have a deviated septum(wall dividing nasal cavities leans towards one side)?

-If you are already using therapy with a nasal mask:
-Are you continuing to snore even when using therapy?
-Do you use a chinstrap?

If you can answer "yes" to one or more of these questions, you will probably experience loss of air from your mouth during treatment. This can be uncomfortable and also prevent you from receiving all the benefits of therapy.

Many people will need to use a full face mask all of the time but others may find they only need it from time to time-for example, during certan seasons or when they have a cold.

CPAP is irritating my nose. Can you provide me with some information on this?
The cool dry air of treatment can cause a runny nose and sneezing. If that condition doesn't change, you should consider using a heated humidifier which will help by adding warmth and moisture to the air.