1. How does a Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP Machine) work?
– The Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP machine) delivers a constant flow of air through tubing and a mask and into your airway. The CPAP machine creates enough pressure in your airway to hold the tissue open, so your airway doesn’t collapse. The soft, steady jet of air from the CPAP machine creates enough pressure to keep the airway open
2. What is a CPAP?
– Continuous positive airway pressure is a form of positive airway pressure ventilator, which applies mild air pressure on a continuous basis. It keeps the airways continuously open in people who are able to breathe spontaneously on their own, but need help keeping their airway unobstructed
3. Do you have sleep apnea?
– Sleep apnea is sleep disorder that occurs when breathing is interrupted during sleep. If left untreated, the brain and the rest of the body may not get enough oxygen. As a result over time, this leads to premature death. Therefore to diagnose this serious condition, we provide a portable, self-administered sleep device that’s worn overnight and done at the comfort of your home. It’s a medical-grade gadget that measures oxygen saturation, nasal airflow, snoring, body position, respiratory effort and pulse rate
4. How long will I have to use this therapy?
– You will probably have to use CPAP therapy for the rest of your life. Most people don’t want to hear that, but it is important to understand. One night without treatment usually causes an immediate return of the same symptoms that motivated you to get help in the first place.
5. How many hours do I need to use my CPAP each night?
– You should use your CPAP whenever you sleep or use it at least
6 hours while you are sleeping. Sleeping without your CPAP poses health risks and will probably reduce your quality of life by increasing your sleepiness and other symptoms associated with sleep apnea
7. Where should I put my CPAP?
– Instead of putting it into the floor a nightstand provides the best spot for a CPAP. Floors tend to have more dust than night tables, and increased dust will shorten the life of the air filter in your CPAP.
8. Are there times when I shouldn’t use my CPAP therapy?
– Yes, Most doctors will recommend that you not use therapy when you have a sinus cold or sinus congestion. The air pressure can cause sinus and ear discomfort. Some doctors also worry that if you have prolonged sinus congestion, the pressure of the device may prevent your sinuses from draining effectively, increasing the risk of sinus infection.
9. Do I have to replace any of parts on my CPAP?
– You will need to replace the air filter on your CPAP periodically. For the Mask you need to replace it every six months or a year just to prevent having bacteria that will cause molds.
10. What are the advantages of auto titrating devices?
– Auto CPAP machines adjust pressure on a breath-by-breath basis to suit patient needs as they change throughout the night. As a result, patients receive the minimum pressure required for effective therapy. The lower average pressures improve comfort, reduce pressure-related side effects, and leads to more consistent use of therapy.
11. How much water should a humidifier use during a night?
-The amount of water needed varies from one humidifier to the next, from one patient to the next, and with the temperature and humidity of the bedroom. The water in your humidifier should ideally be changed for each use
12. If I run out of distilled water, is it ok to use tap water once in a while?
– Yes. It is recommended that you boil the tap water before using it in your humidifier.
13. Who benefits from wearing a full face mask?
-Some people just prefer a full face mask, but those who get a therapeutic advantage are those who mouth breathe or experience mouth leaks. Mouth breathing and mouth leak can lead to less effective therapy.
14. I’ve been waking up with a stuffy and runny nose. Is the CPAP giving me an infection?
– Nasal congestion and runny nose are symptoms of a dry nasal passage. The pressure from the CPAP can be drying to your airway. When your nasal passage becomes dry, it becomes inflamed and produces more mucous. As a result, patients may experience nasal congestion, or a runny and itchy nose.