Articles by Chris Vasta

Articles by Chris Vasta

Over a 10+ year career at PHH Mortgage managing a $100 million portfolio, Chris Vasta learned the ins and outs of the business world. He learned how to establish business relationships, lead a multi-prong team, and implement strategies for long-term growth. In 2007, Vasta used that experience to transition his role into president of The CPAP Shop. Over his tenure, Vasta has been involved in everything from website design to warehouse layout. His hands-on approach with customers has evolved into an in-depth understanding of the challenges of beginning and adhering to sleep therapy. He often provides his insights on product design and functionality on various manufacturer’s prototypes and is frequently tapped to provide previews of new releases.

Vasta’s primary focus remains on improving the customer experience. He works hand-in-hand with the customer service and warehouse teams to streamline processes and introduce new technologies for a quicker, more efficient workflow. He also works directly with manufacturers to create unique product offerings that cater to customer needs and demands.
  • head with pieces breaking off

    How Does Sleep Apnea Cause Memory Loss?

    June 7, 2023
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    Recent studies have shown that treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can help improve memory in older patients experiencing cognitive decline due to dementia.1 While sleep loss is one of the symptoms of dementia in some patients, the increasing decline of brain health from sleep deprivation may worsen the symptoms of dementia, creating a viscous cycle that accelerates overall cognitive degradation...

  • AirFit N20 Nasal Mask

    ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP Mask Review 2023

    May 31, 2023
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    Innovation is one of the keys to success. ResMed has been at the forefront of CPAP equipment innovation for many years. The company continues to offer compelling reasons to try new products that are typically state of the art and well-tested by actual users. Most recently, ResMed introduced an improved version of a quite popular nasal mask. The AirFit N10 was a strong addition to the ResMed na...
  • How Are Sleep Apnea And Depression Related?

    How Are Sleep Apnea And Depression Related?

    May 17, 2023
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    There are many studies about the link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and multiple other negative physical afflictions. These illnesses include diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. It is also a consequential link to stroke, heart attack, and, most recently, cancer.  In general, people with sleep apnea who either do not have a diagnosis or are non-compliant are at greater.

  • Alcohol glass bottles in row

    Relation Between Alcohol And Sleep Apnea

    May 10, 2023
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    This post was originally posted on October 13,2021, and updated on January 19, 2022. While alcohol seems like an ideal aid for falling asleep, it actually inhibits healthy sleep and may induce sleep disorders like sleep apnea. The different stages of sleep are important for getting the rest you need to recharge your mind and body. These phases of sleep can be disrupted by alcohol use. ...
  • man sleeping with cpap

    What are the Benefits Of CPAP Therapy?

    April 19, 2023
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    Every day, hundreds of people come to the conclusion that the benefits of CPAP therapy in the short term are nothing short of life changing. For those new to CPAP therapy, the challenges of the normal adjustment period can make it difficult to get to a level of CPAP compliance where the benefits can manifest themselves. It’s never a matter of being redundant to remind them of at least five...
  • man holding full face cpap mask

    Can I Use a Used CPAP Machine?

    March 29, 2023
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    This post was originally posted on June 5, 2022, and updated on March 29, 2023. We’re all looking for ways to save money but when it comes to your health, remember there is a price to pay if you try to cut corners. While buying a used machine may save you money upfront, there is a significant cost to compromising the quality and efficacy of your CPAP therapy. Here’s what to consider...

  • Best Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks of 2022

    Best Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks of 2023

    February 21, 2023
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    Nasal pillow CPAP masks are popular among CPAP patients as a preferred option over full face masks. That's because of their lightweight design, unobtrusive view, and quiet performance. Nasal pillow CPAP masks are ideal for users who breathe through their nose or use a CPAP chinstrap. This type of mask also reduces the chances of masks leaks because it provides air directly into the nostrils. 

  • ResMed AirFit P30i Vs TAP PAP Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask Comparison 

    ResMed AirFit P30i Vs TAP PAP Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask Comparison 

    February 13, 2023
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    Choosing a nasal pillow CPAP mask can leave you many options. Most CPAP mask manufacturers offers some type of nasal pillow mask with varieties of benefits and features and lots with strong consumer reviews. So how do you choose? We have narrowed down two models of nasal pillow CPAP mask that stood above the rest. Compare the features and benefits of these two nasal pillow masks and see which one is a good fit for your CPAP therapy.  

  • The Best CPAP Masks of 2023

    The Best CPAP Masks of 2023

    February 6, 2023
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    CPAP masks are always a personal choice for CPAP users. Finding the perfect fit and type can be a trial-and-error process. We have tried to streamline selecting a CPAP Mask in 2023 by compiling some of the best masks available based on our experts, reviewers, and ratings, so finding your ideal CPAP mask is easier. Check out our list below of the best CPAP Masks of 2023.

  • Best CPAP Machines Of 2023

    Best CPAP Machines Of 2023

    February 1, 2023
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    There are a lot of factors that go into selecting a CPAP machine for your therapy needs. Our experts have reviewed some of the top-rated CPAP machines and their features and benefits to help make it easier to choose a CPAP machine that’s right for you. Here are the best CPAP Machines of 2023.

  • man sleeping with Evora full face mask

    Best Full-Face CPAP Masks of 2023

    January 27, 2023
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    The CPAP Shop recommends choosing a full face CPAP mask based on your comfort and personal needs. Selecting a full face mask for your sleeping position also helps ensure the best CPAP experience and compliance. We’ve compiled some of the best full face CPAP masks of 2023.

  • travel cpap machines

    The Best Travel CPAP Machines of 2023

    January 25, 2023
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    Taking your CPAP therapy on your travels requires a reliable travel CPAP machine. Travel CPAP machines are portable, efficient, and FAA-approved. Our experts have curated some of the top manufacturers and reviewed the most important features and benefits to help you choose a travel CPAP machine that fits your needs. Here's our list of the best travel CPAP machines of 2023.

  • ResMed AirFit N30i Vs Evora Nasal CPAP Mask Comparison

    ResMed AirFit N30i Vs Evora Nasal CPAP Mask Comparison

    January 18, 2023
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    Choosing a nasal CPAP mask can mean trying out different makes and models to see which is the best fit and is the most comfortable.  Some nasal CPAP masks can leave marks on your nostrils or leave you with nasal soreness in the morning. So, choosing a nasal CPAP mask can be a trial and error process. Instead, use our comparison of two of the leading brands of nasal CPAP mask to see which one fits your PAP therapy needs.  

  • ResMed AirSense 11 vs 3B Luna II CPAP Machine Comparison

    ResMed AirSense 11 vs 3B Luna II CPAP Machine Comparison

    January 11, 2023
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    When selecting an auto-adjusting CPAP machine, consider two well-known models. The ResMed AirSense 11 and the 3B Luna II offer many useful features for users and provide reliable and consistent performance for CPAP compliance. Auto CPAP machines are especially useful for new users getting started with PAP therapy as they need time to get accustomed to breathing pressurized air while they sleep. Both of these machines offer features to help anyone experiencing comfort issues with a standard CPAP machine. 

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the Elderly 

    Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the Elderly 

    December 7, 2022
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    Getting older means an increased likelihood of sleep apnea. In general, sleep can become more difficult with age and sleep apnea becomes a common sleep disorder, affecting nearly 20% of older adults. As we get older, muscles weaken, including airway muscles, which makes seniors more likely to experience sleep apnea. 

  • How to Sleep Better While on CPAP Therapy

    How to Sleep Better While on CPAP Therapy

    November 30, 2022
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    What Is CPAP Therapy? Even if you are on CPAP therapy, there are other things you can do to help make your evening conducive to a better night’s sleep and your sleep more comfortable. The study of sleep has been expanding rapidly, leading to much new research and innovative products that are available to help get you the sleep you deserve. 

  • ResMed AirSense Auto CPAP Machine Comparison

    ResMed AirSense Auto CPAP Machine Comparison

    November 23, 2022
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    ResMed is one of the leading manufacturers of auto CPAP machines. Among their offering is the distinctive and popular AirSense line of machines. You can choose between the ResMed AirSense 11, AirSense 10, or the AirSense 10 Card-to-Cloud (CTC). Each machine provides different features and benefits to CPAP patients. So when selecting a ResMed AirSense machine, be sure to compare the different ones.

  • 3B Medical Luna II vs Luna G3 Comparison

    3B Medical Luna II vs Luna G3 Comparison

    November 16, 2022
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    3B Medical offers a diverse range of CPAP machines for different user needs. Two of the best machines in their offering are the Luna II and Luna G3. The Luna II and Luna G3 have advantages for many users. Both of these CPAP machines include features and benefits that may be useful including integrated humidifiers and user-friendly interfaces. See how the two machines compare.

  • Philips Respironics Amara Full Face CPAP Mask

    Philips Respironics Amara Full Face CPAP Mask

    November 9, 2022
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    The redesigned Respironics Amara Gel Full Face CPAP Mask offers a more comfortable and lighter-weight fit for users. Many CPAP patients will find the new Amara easier than ever to use and clean. The redesign also provides more options for users, including varied sizing and cushion type to accommodate diverse user needs. Choosing the gel cushion allows for extreme comfort, therapy success, and ...
  • ResMed AirSense 11 vs 3B Medical Luna G3 Comparison

    ResMed AirSense 11 vs 3B Medical Luna G3 Comparison

    November 2, 2022
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    Two highly preferred CPAP machines on the market today include the ResMed AirSense 11 and the 3B Medical Luna G3. The ResMed AirSense 11 offers all the benefits of an auto-adjusting CPAP. And the 3B Medical provides useful and innovative comfort features and settings. So which one is best for you? We have done a comprehensive comparison of the benefits and features of both machines to help you. 

  • ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask Review

    ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask Review

    October 25, 2022
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    The ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask offers more flexibility and less noise than many competing nasal mask brands. The groundbreaking tube design frees up hose movement and the QuietAir Vent Technology offers 57% quieter performance than the original cushions. 

  • 3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP Machine Review 

    3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP Machine Review 

    October 18, 2022
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    The 3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP Machine is powerful, effective, and user-friendly. The lighter design and added comfort features of the 3B Medical Luna G3 make this CPAP machine the ideal choice for anyone just starting CPAP therapy or switching from a different CPAP machine.

  • When to Replace CPAP Supplies

    When to Replace CPAP Supplies

    October 11, 2022
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    CPAP masks have a lifespan, which is amount 3 months. Over time the masks become worn, and the seal becomes less effective, which means you do not receive the highest performance from your CPAP therapy.  Some CPAP masks may begin to show wear even before their expiration date, depending on the amount of use they receive. 

  • What is Mediterranean Diet and Can it Help with CPAP Therapy?

    What is Mediterranean Diet and Can it Help with CPAP Therapy?

    September 28, 2022
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    The Mediterranean diet is a constant topic in the press as everyone including health professionals touts its health benefits. The diet has been effective at reducing many illnesses. This includes risks of heart disease and several cancers including Parkinson’s a...

  • Premature Infant CPAP Masks

    Premature Infant CPAP Masks

    September 28, 2022
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    The use of CPAP masks and various forms of CPAP therapy delivery is becoming the accepted practice in pediatric medicine. This is particularly true with preterm infants with some form of respiratory disorder, which is a fairly common problem. 

  • AirMini Travel CPAP vs Transcend Micro CPAP - Comparison

    AirMini Travel CPAP vs Transcend Micro CPAP - Comparison

    September 27, 2022
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    AirMini Travel CPAP – Features  The functionalities and features of the ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP are relatively the same as the AirSense 10 Auto CPAP machine, but smaller and more compact for travelers. The minimized design makes it easy for users to carry it on long-distance flights, camping trips, cruises, and road trips.

  • Fisher & Paykel Eson 2 Nasal CPAP Mask Review

    Fisher & Paykel Eson 2 Nasal CPAP Mask Review

    September 20, 2022
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    The Fisher & Paykel Eson 2 Nasal CPAP Mask is one of the simplest and most convenient nasal CPAP masks to use. It features VisiBlue indicators making this CPAP mask easy to clean and assemble for anyone. It features a comfortable cushion and soft headgear so users can still enjoy a comfortable night's sleep while receiving therapy. 

  • ResMed Airsense 11 Troubleshooting Guide

    ResMed Airsense 11 Troubleshooting Guide

    September 7, 2022
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    The ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine with Heated Humidifier offers all the benefits of an auto-adjusting pressure device with an integrated heated humidifier that provides soothing warm moist air to prevent CPAP side effects, wireless connectivity for ease of use, and patient support that helps you receive the best CPAP therapy possible.

  • ResMed AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10 Card-to-Cloud CPAP Machines – Comparison

    ResMed AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10 Card-to-Cloud CPAP Machines – Comparison

    August 31, 2022
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    As a leading manufacturer of CPAP machines, ResMed offers a variety of CPAP machine options for CPAP users. The ResMed AirSense 10 Card-to-Cloud (CTC) and the ResMed AirSense 11 are two machines commonly selected by CPAP patients. That's because they both provide excellent performance and comfort.

  • Can I Use Acetazolamide As CPAP Therapy Medicine?

    Can I Use Acetazolamide As CPAP Therapy Medicine?

    August 29, 2022
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    This post was originally published on February 13, 2013, but updated on August 29, 2022. While CPAP therapy is the go-to approach for managing obstructive sleep apnea, other types of sleep apnea may require alternate treatment. Medications including Acetazolamide have shown to help patients with central sleep apnea and possibly in some instances obstructive sleep apnea. Before starting ...
  • ResMed AirMini Auto Travel CPAP Troubleshooting Guide

    ResMed AirMini Auto Travel CPAP Troubleshooting Guide

    August 18, 2022
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    The ResMed AirMini Auto Travel CPAP provides essential therapy for patients with sleep apnea on the go. The ResMed AirMini is a user-friendly travel CPAP machine with features for enhancing sleep comfort while away from home. 

  • What is an APAP Machine?

    What is an APAP Machine?

    August 11, 2022
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    Automatic positive airway pressure, APAP, is one of the three main forms of positive airway pressure or PAP therapy. APAP automatically adjusts to meet each specific person’s breathing needs, which often change throughout the night as we move in and out of different stages of sleep.

  • Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine Review

    Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine Review

    August 4, 2022
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    Taking CPAP therapy on the road is easier than ever with the Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine. It is the smallest and lightest CPAP devices available on the market – weighing under 0.5 lbs. and measuring less than 4 inches. This micro CPAP machine is easy to pack or even drop in your pocket. It was designed in this compact size to be portable and convenient to use.

  • 3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP & APAP Troubleshooting Guide

    3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP & APAP Troubleshooting Guide

    August 2, 2022
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    The 3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP & APAP provide essential therapy for patients with sleep apnea. The G3 CPAP is a user-friendly CPAP machine with features for enhancing sleep comfort and managing sleep data. The G3 APAP offers the benefit of automatic pressure settings to help some patients adjust more easily to CPAP therapy and includes many of the beneficial features of the G3 CPAP. 

  • CPAP Masks are Best for Mouth Breathers

    Which CPAP Masks are Best for Mouth Breathers?

    July 26, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on May 12, 2020, and updated on July 27, 2022. Over the last few years, CPAP manufacturers have released many new types of masks. Choice is good for users but making the proper mask decision directly impacts compliance. The more comfortable and effective the mask, the higher use rate amongst CPAP patients. CPAP masks come in various models and styles so that...
  • What is BiPAP Therapy?

    Everything to Know About BiPAP Therapy

    July 25, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on November 23, 2021, and updated on July 25, 2022. What is BiPAP Therapy? BiPAP (aka BPAP) therapy is the preferred choice for treating central sleep apnea, cases of severe obstructive sleep apnea, or mixed sleep apnea. In these instances, CPAP therapy may not be enough to get users the extra air they need.

  • How to Choose a Travel CPAP Machine

    How to Choose a Travel CPAP Machine

    July 18, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on July 25, 2017, and updated on July 18, 2022. This post compares the four most popular CPAP machines built for travel on the market in 2019. If you have sleep apnea and are a camper, trucker, pilot, hunter, fisherman, travel for business or pleasure frequently, want to sleep comfortably on a flight, plan to take a cruise or go sailing.

  • UARS vs. OSA

    UARS vs. OSA

    July 18, 2022
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    Breathing and healthy sleep are closely connected. Sleep disorders that interrupt normal breathing patterns while you sleep can have a dramatic impact on your personal health. Identifying the specific sleep disorder that is affecting you is important to determine the best treatment. Doctors will ask questions about symptoms and may require sleep tests to get an accurate diagnosis. Many patient...
  • diagnosis glaucoma rx pad

    Sleep Apnea and Glaucoma

    July 15, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on September 10, 2013, and updated on July 15, 2022. With a significant percentage of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) patients suffering from some forms of glaucoma, researchers have begun to study the relationships between the two conditions over the last several years. For OSA patients that are also living with glaucoma, the questions regarding the effects of...
  • lightbulb on brown background

    What Causes Dry Mouth And Sore Throat?

    July 15, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on May 5, 2020, and updated on July 15, 2022. While are there many health benefits to staying CPAP compliant, including better sleep, there may also be some side effects with CPAP therapy. It is not uncommon for CPAP patients to experience dry mouth or a sore throat in the morning after a night of CPAP therapy, especially if they use their CPAP machine every ...
  • 3b medical luna G3 auto cpap machine side view

    3B Medical Luna G3 Auto CPAP Machine Review

    July 11, 2022
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    Designed to be more user-friendly, the 3B Medical Luna G3 Auto CPAP Machine makes CPAP efficient and effective for every user. New features include a built-in algorithm take the guesswork out of CPAP machine adjustment. The AutoRamp and integrated heated tubing are added benefits that provide comfort along with ease of use. This device is lightweight, weighing only 3.75 pounds, perfect to plac...
  • man using exciteOSA device

    Pros and Cons of Using Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea

    June 21, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on December 10, 2021, and updated on June 21, 2022. Sleep apnea continues to be one of the most prevalent sleep disorders, affecting over 22 million Americans. Because symptoms of sleep apnea like loud snoring are often overlooked, the sleep disorder is a condition that typically goes undiagnosed. The good news is that with a diagnosis, effective treatment...
  • 3B medical luna G3 bipap with accessories

    3B Medical Luna G3 BiPAP Machine Review

    June 21, 2022
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    The 3B Medical Luna G3 BiPAP machine is designed for a user-friendly BiPAP therapy experience. With a smaller footprint, this is a lightweight machine that will fit on your bedside table easily. It has comfort features and settings to prevent any chance of rainout. 3B Medical Luna G3 BiPAP – Features User-Friendly Interface The user-friendly display makes navigating through settings...

  • man wearing nasal cpap mask with hose attached

    Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Benefits for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

    June 14, 2022
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    An estimated 54 million Americans have obstructive sleep apnea or OSA.1 The most common treatment has always been PAP (positive airway pressure) to help reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of sleep and overall health. Now new research reveals that as little as two hours of PAP therapy had health benefits for obstructive sleep apnea patients. What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea? O...
  • man snoring with woman holding ears

    Embarrassing Sleep Conditions - Snoring and Drooling

    June 13, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on December 17, 2013, and updated on June 13, 2022. Summary: Life is not like a movie, so embarrassing sleep conditions like sleep apnea that are funny on-screen can have bigger implications to our lives, health, and relationships in the real world. Snoring can keep your bed partner awake and even drive them into sleeping apart from you. Drooling...
  • cpap pillow layers

    What is the Best CPAP Pillow?

    June 13, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on June 14, 2019, and updated on June 13, 2022. For patients who use CPAP machines, the relief from symptoms of sleep apnea is almost immediate. You start to sleep better and wake up refreshed. For those struggling to adjust to CPAP therapy or those who are looking to enhance their experience, it might be time to consider a CPAP pillow. What is a CPAP Pillow.

  • DNA strands

    Sleep Apnea and Genetic Problems

    June 8, 2022
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    Where does sleep apnea come from? Many researchers have suggested that the condition may be genetic. Yet others argue lifestyle and environmental factors play a role in the sleep disorder. What is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing to stop off and on throughout the night, disrupting normal sleep patterns, which can lead to health problems. There...
  • resmed airsense 10 auto card to cloud front view with cpap tube

    ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet Card-to-Cloud CPAP Machine Review

    May 31, 2022
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    Collecting and sharing your sleep data is one of the most important technological features driving the CPAP machine industry. The leading brand ResMed is bringing this data service to CPAP patients with a card-to-cloud feature in their AirSense 10 AutoSet. Now, an SD card is included in this device that can be downloaded for review by your doctor. Let's look at the Airsense 10 AutoSet Card...
  • airsense 10 cpap machine with full face mask on table

    Things to Know About Sleep Apnea and CPAP

    May 9, 2022
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    Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders affecting nearly 100 million people worldwide. It is a sleep condition that disrupts breathing during the night. It can be a potentially serious condition, with some risk factors being age and obesity. Some people also may have this condition without even knowing they do. Continuous positive airway pressure, also known as CPAP therapy, is o...
  • old machine to new airmini portable

    The Evolution of CPAP Machines

    May 5, 2022
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    This post was originally posted on October 31, 2013, and updated on May 5, 2022. CPAP machine technology helps millions of people manage their sleep apnea. But the earliest CPAP machines were actually created for dogs with respiratory issues. This successful treatment helped many breeds of dogs who naturally have difficulty breathing. The inventors then refined their device when they realized.