Village Health Foundation

Those who have been given a sleep apnea diagnosis may choose from a range of CPAP devices. The basics of CPAP were covered in our last blog post, along with some of the benefits it offers people with sleep apnea, such as keeping their airways open while they sleep and a reduction in snoring and other apnea symptoms including weariness and daytime drowsiness.

How well CPAP works for you personally will be greatly influenced by the kind of CPAP mask your doctor suggests for you. A key element of the overall CPAP regimen is the CPAP mask, which delivers air from the CPAP machine to your mouth and nose. This makes it obvious that your CPAP mask should be as comfortable as possible and create a tight seal over your mouth and/or nose (without leaving marks on your face or irritating your skin).

Thankfully, many of the cpap machines available today are designed to do just that: provide you a comfortable night’s sleep without inflicting you with any discomfort or irritability. Let’s review the advantages provided by each kind of machine and evaluate what distinguishes these numerous CPAP mask types from one another.

Which CPAP machines are available for those who have sleep apnea?

CPAP machines typically come in various sizes and fall into three main groups.

When compared to full face CPAP machines, nasal machines fit over your nose alone, providing a more comfortable fit; nasal pillow machines are even lighter and simpler than nasal machines, allowing for more visibility and openness. Your mouth and nose are covered with a full-face mask.

See also: Solve these CPAP machines’ problems with these tips

These descriptions may have made it apparent that you would prefer a lighter or smaller mask over a bigger or heavier one. But there are other considerations as well. As an example, equipment that covers more of your face may sometimes provide a greater barrier against leakage, boosting therapy. Similar to this, if you have facial hair, a larger mask may be necessary for a better seal. You could also feel more comfortable using a smaller mask if you have claustrophobia.

Even while full face machines are a little heavier, you could find them to be more comfortable. A lot of this comes down to personal preference and how effectively a given mask shape will cover the specific characteristics of your face. In any event, your doctor could help you select the machine that fits you the most comfortably by letting you try on a number of them.

Also important is this! You may “forget” to wear your CPAP mask sometimes or take it off in the middle of the night if it doesn’t seem comfortable to you. You may not even be aware of what you’ve done until the next morning in certain circumstances!

You’ll most likely suffer the same symptoms you had before to your diagnosis, such as daytime sleepiness and poor energy, in addition to being at risk for a number of extra sleep apnea-related hazards, since you won’t be getting the full degree of treatment for your sleep apnea.

There are additional types of CPAP machines that may be used to treat sleep apnea, despite the fact that the majority of CPAP machines fall into one of the three categories stated above. Less often suggested machines include whole face machines (covering the full face), oral machines (covering just the mouth), and hybrid machines (offering various combinations of the previously described CPAP machines). Although they aren’t as often recommended as the three we’ve spoken about above, depending on how bad your disease is, your doctor may decide to prescribe one of them.

Think about getting two CPAP machines.

Even if it takes a few attempts to find the CPAP mask that fits you the best, we are certain that everyone can find the ideal model. However, some people choose to purchase two CPAP machines, which they use alternately.

Numerous visitors to our website claim to have alternately used two CPAP machines. If you think you could benefit from having a second mask fitted, speak with your equipment supplier about your options for doing so most affordably.

Why use two?

In certain cases, the following may help with environmental allergies: If you currently use a nasal or nasal cushions mask and have stuffy, clogged nasal passages when your allergies start to act up, you may find it easier to breathe through a full face mask. This is especially true if your septum is deviated.

To reduce pressure on the sensitive parts of the face: Your face was covered with a variety of machines. Your face sometimes needs a rest, despite the fact that machines become comfier every year. A different kind of mask (such as a nasal pillows, nasal, and/or full face mask) may make a sensitive area feel better.

After a facial operation, during recovery: Ask your equipment provider as soon as possible about being fitted for a mask that won’t touch the area of your face where your CPAP mask now sits throughout your recovery.

But remember…

Never compromise on the standard of treatment. If you wish to temporarily switch from a full face mask to a nasal or pillows mask, ask your equipment supplier how a chin strap may help ensure that your mouth stays closed while you sleep. If the mouth is open when using nasal/pillows, CPAP treatment will be less effective and humidification won’t keep you comfortable.

Recognize when it’s time to replace your CPAP supplies. With more machines, it becomes required to maintain more supplies. Make sure you are aware of the proper cleaning and storage procedures as well as when to replace each piece of CPAP equipment, including mask components, machine filters, and water chambers.

Machines and their components will last longer if you use them alternatively as long as you clean them according to their instructions each morning after use and store them correctly (ideally in a sealed plastic bag after they’ve been cleaned and dried, and away from sunlight).

Seasonally adjust the humidity levels in your home.

During the winter, you’ll need extra moisture, so raise your humidity levels by 1/2 to 1 level at a time until you’re pleased.

You may lower the humidity levels in your home throughout the summer when the air is warmer and more muggy.

Keep your CPAP at or just below the height of your head 

If condensation forms above your head and drips into your hose, you run the danger of having your machine topple over on you.

Ensure that your CPAP machines are set up on a sturdy, flat surface, such a book, stool, or tray.

You’ll probably need to wipe off extra condensation more often if your machine is on the floor.

As a result of moisture build-up and the fact that the air is often colder closer to the floor, you may need to dust your equipment more frequently. Additionally, you should dust your system more often and make sure it’s “bug-free.”

Use only distilled water in your machine

Fluoride and other antibacterial agents often found in tap water might be hazardous to your lungs.

We advise using mask liners to prevent discomfort or pain.

They assist in removing unpleasant micro-leaks that may cause face irritability. (Also, if your mask is causing you any discomfort or agony, please let our equipment specialists or your doctor know.)

Try using zinc oxide cream to calm down mild skin irritants.

Our eighth piece of advice is to get your CPAP machines inspected at least once every six months.

We find that our patients perform better when their machines are checked more often, despite the fact that many manufacturers only advise having your unit evaluated once a year.

To get used to your mask

To get used to your mask turn it on (unattached to the machine) for 20 minutes at a time while unwinding, watching TV, etc.

After getting used to your CPAP machines

Use it regularly, especially during naps and each time you go to bed.

If you have trouble coping with forced air

Try the “ramp” function on your system. You may progressively raise air pressure over time by doing this. Consult your doctor if this does not resolve the issue.

If you have a dry or stuffy nose on a regular basis

You have to take into account buy CPAP machines with an adjustable heated humidifier. You could also be given a nasal steroid spray by your doctor, or you might use K-Y Jelly to swab your nasal passages. Another option is a nasal wash like Neri-Med. Never use petroleum jelly-based products, however.

If you experience claustrophobia

Practice by putting on the mask without the other components and holding it up to your face. Try wearing the mask with the straps once you’re at ease with that. Hold the CPAP machine’s hose connected to the mask and hose (without the straps) when the machine’s low-pressure setting is selected (turn the ramp feature on). While awake, put on the mask with the straps and the air pressure machine switched on. Try sleeping with it on once you’re at ease with that.

Some of our patients struggle to fall asleep when their therapy first starts, but this is common and often only brief. If this describes you, think about…

Increasing air pressure gradually over time by using the “ramp” option on your machine.

• avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed.
• doing regular exercise.
• a warm bath before going to bed.
• putting off going to bed till you are exhausted.

Spend a few minutes daily cleaning your CPAP machines.

We advise using a mix of one part vinegar to two parts water for rapid cleaning. (Vinegar is a fully non-toxic natural sterilizer.) Cleaning mask cushions is simple with wipes and sprays, and you may wash your mask more thoroughly every few days with hot, soapy water.

By adopting CPAP treatment, people with sleep apnea may see a significant reduction in their most uncomfortable symptoms. In our last blog post, we outlined the CPAP treatment’s guiding principles. But which conditions are most often treated with this form of therapy?

Research suggests that 60% of those who have used CPAP for more than a few months are compliant. This may be attributed to the fact that many cpap machines users struggle to feel comfortable during treatment. There are, however, straightforward fixes for these problems that might increase the compliance rates of your patients.

Machine Issues

I can’t get my CPAP machines to function.

Ensure that the machine and wall plugs are both securely fastened. Make sure your electrical outlet is operational by checking it. If not, schedule a time to bring your device in so that your cpap provider may inspect it.

My CPAP machine is very loud, and it prevents my bed mate and I from falling asleep.

Unless you are really sensitive to noise (try ear plugs), this would signal a problem since modern devices are almost quiet. Verify the equipment filters. To keep the machines operating well, they should be replaced every month or whenever they become noticeably discolored. If you are using a Bi Level machine, there will be a very tiny audible noise when the pressure switches between the inhalation and exhalation settings. 

If you use an AutoCPAP, there will be a little audible noise when the machine adjusts the inhaling pressure. Your machine may have a fault if it is otherwise loud. Make a time to bring your device in so that your cpap provider may inspect it.

I tangle up in my CPAP tube at night.

Consider positioning the tubing behind your head towards the top of your pillow or behind the bed frame serving as the headboard. The majority of cpap manufacturers include a cheap tubing lift to assist with tube placement for better sleep. The compact structure is simple to use and is secured between the mattress and box spring. The lift maintains the tube above the head, improving the range of motion.

My CPAP machines keep falling off the nightstand.

The typical CPAP tube is roughly 6 feet long. Active sleepers who toss and turn throughout the night are more likely to yank on the machine’s tubing and knock it off the nightstand. The majority of cpap vendors provide tubing in 10-foot lengths, which gives patients additional mobility—especially when used in conjunction with a Tubing Lift.

Problems with humidifiers

Dry mouth, dry throat, runny nose, stuffy nose, and sneezing are side effects of CPAP.

All of the aforementioned problems may often be solved with a CPAP humidifier or temperature change. If you need extra moisture, start with the lowest heat setting and increase as necessary. Products like Biotene spray or mouthwash may assist with dry mouth. Ocean or other basic saline spray solutions may be helpful for chronic nasal lining dryness. Both are sold without a prescription at your drugstore. Consult your doctor if the issue continues.

CPAP tubing with water

When the temperature in your bedroom is lower than the air flowing from your machine, excessive condensation may develop in the CPAP tubing. The majority of cpap manufacturers provide cheap, insulating hose covers to address this frequent issue.

Humidifier water chamber has a white or pink coating.

The water chamber is a rapid environment for bacteria to grow. It is advised by all manufacturers to use distilled water. On sometimes, tap water may be utilized. Every morning, rinse the chamber, remove any remaining water, and let it to air dry. Fill the chamber with a mix of 1/3 white distilled vinegar and 2/3 tap water to remove the film. Give it an hour to soak. Rinse with clean tap water, then let it air dry.

Liquid spill

Before adding distilled water to a machine, the water chamber unit must always be removed. Water spilling into the device might impair its internal circuitry, cause damage, and invalidate the warranty.

How can I get used to using a CPAP mask?

You must start off slowly in order to become used to wearing your CPAP mask.

Throughout the day, try putting on the mask while reading a book or watching TV. By just wearing the mask while you prepare food or even just surf the internet, you could sometimes get used to wearing it at night.

If you have become used to how the CPAP mask feels on your face, wear it every time you go to bed at night and even during naps.

The reality is that the fewer regularly you use the mask, the harder it will be to become used to wearing it. Check if the suggested mask and pressure settings are still effective for you after using the device for a few weeks or longer.

My CPAP machines hurt when I use them at night!

When acquiring a new CPAP mask, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and CPAP provider extensively to make sure the mask and equipment are suitable for you and are fitted properly.

Ask your doctor, a sleep expert, or a CPAP provider to show you how to adjust your mask so that it fits you perfectly. To learn more about proper fit, you should also read the product instructions from the manufacturer.

The availability of several mask styles is a plus. Consider the many CPAP mask types and the benefits and drawbacks of each mask to ensure that the one you choose best satisfies your needs.

Do I have an allergy to CPAP machines?

It’s possible that your CPAP machines don’t fit you properly or that they’re making you allergic to them.

Here are some tips for figuring out if you have allergies to your CPAP masks:

• First, put the CPAP masks down, then give your doctor a quick call. An allergy to CPAP masks often shows up the first night you wear the mask.
• Think about how often you wash your face mask. Almost 90% of the time, what seems to be an allergic reaction to CPAP masks (such a bruise on the face or a skin infection) is caused by infrequent mask cleaning.
• Make sure your mask is not an old-fashioned latex version. The majority of CPAP masks now on the market are composed of silicone, while a small number are also constructed of a gel material. They almost all lack latex.

The forced air from CPAP machines drives me crazy.

You may get around this issue by using the “ramp” option on your CPAP machines.

The “ramp” option allows you to start with a low air pressure and increase it gradually over time until it reaches the recommended pressure from your doctor. Additionally, your doctor could adjust the “ramp” function’s pace.

Whether this doesn’t help, find out from your doctor if you may switch to a BPAP machine. But before you decide if this might be a better option for your treatment needs, read our side-by-side comparison of BPAP and CPAP devices.

I get a runny or stuffy nose after wearing the CPAP mask!

First, check to see whether your CPAP machines come with a heated humidifier. A humidifier may often alleviate these symptoms. If your existing CPAP machines does not already have one, think about buying one with adjustable humidification.

Consider using a nasal saline spray before night to prevent your nose from over-drying. Last but not least, make sure your mask fits snugly since one that leaks might dry out your nose.

My CPAP machines make me feel restricted.

Start out by having a positive outlook on your CPAP treatment.

CPAP machines and mask are there to significantly improve your quality of life over time, even if you may not be aware of it now.

Before anything else, keep in mind that successful CPAP treatment sometimes requires tolerance building as you adjust to therapy. Follow our advice to become used to using your CPAP machines. Speak to your doctor or a sleep expert if you need further help adapting to therapy.

• Practice putting on your CPAP machines while you’re still awake. Start by simply pressing the mask to your face without any other accessories. Once you feel comfortable doing that, try wearing the mask with the straps.
• •To become acclimated to the CPAP mask, start off gradually. Try holding the mask with the hose connected to your face without using the straps. Connect the CPAP machine hose, then lower the pressure (with ramp feature turned on). Finally, while still awake, put the air pressure machine and strapped-on mask on. Once you’re comfortable with that, try sleeping with it on.
• Practice some calming strategies. To help you feel less worried about wearing your CPAP machines, you could also attempt progressive muscle relaxation methods. It can be beneficial to try a different kind of mask, such one with nasal cushions, or to buy a mask in a different size.

If your claustrophobia persists, speak with your doctor, a sleep specialist, or a CPAP provider.

I still have difficulties falling asleep even with the CPAP machines on.

This frequent, transient problem is more likely to affect patients who are just beginning CPAP therapy. After you’ve followed our advice on adjusting to your CPAP machines, test out the “ramp” feature.

Make sure you practice good sleep hygiene by exercising often and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed.

Why does my mouth feel dry when I use my CPAP machines?

Mouth breathing at night or sleeping with your mouth open might worsen the effects of CPAP. A chin strap may help keep your lips together when using a nasal mask, reducing air loss.

But once again, make sure you’re using the right mask, and experiment with your CPAP machine’s heated humidifier settings to see if it makes a difference.

More to read: Rare CPAP machine tips that are quite helpful