CPAP Masks: Solving 3 Common Problems

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Article Title:

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CPAP Masks: Solving 3 Common Problems

Article Description:

====================

For some people, just the thought of having to secure a plastic

mask to their face is unpleasant. Sleep is a precious commodity

to all. But it is particularly precious to the people suffering

from sleep apnea. The idea of sleep which many of us take for

granted now becomes a monumental undertaking.

Additional Article Information:

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855 Words; formatted to 65 Characters per Line

Distribution Date and Time: 2009-07-08 10:48:00

Written By: Vasta

Copyright: 2009

Contact Email: mailto:thecpapshop@...

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CPAP Masks: Solving 3 Common Problems

Copyright © 2009 Vasta

The CPAP Shop

http://www.thecpapshop.com

For some people, just the thought of having to secure a plastic

mask to their face is unpleasant. Sleep is a precious commodity

to all. But it is particularly precious to the people suffering

from sleep apnea. The idea of sleep which many of us take for

granted now becomes a monumental undertaking. New and improved

CPAP machines are built to be exceptionally quiet and compact.

However, the CPAP mask remains the number one complaint with CPAP

equipment users. Speaking with many clients over the years, we

have identified the three most common complaints and offer

solutions to help get the rest you need and enhance your

lifestyle.

Itchy And Dry Nose/Mouth

After numerous tries on various masks CPAP masks

(http://www.thecpapshop.com/cpap-nasal-masks.html), you have

finally found a comfortable cpap mask which fits all the

intricacies of your face. This, as most CPAP users are acutely

aware, is no small feat. Even though your mask fits comfortably

on your face, you may still be hindered by a problem common to

many users - continual dry mouth and/or stuffy nose. A simple

and cost effective solution to this issue is the addition of a

heated humidifier to your CPAP machine. Using a heated

humidifier will help decrease nasal congestion and stuffiness

which results in a more comfortable CPAP experience and a more

rested feeling when you wake up.

Newer style CPAP machines often come with an integrated heated

humidifier. These integrated units are still quite small and

considered very travel friendly. Even older CPAP machines can

make use of a universal stand-alone heated humidifier such as the

Velocity Heated Humidifier. Additionally, an improperly sealed

CPAP mask can also produce a dry feeling in the nose and throat.

It is vital to inspect your CPAP mask continuously to make sure

that the silicone or gel cushion has not broken down and is still

providing an effective seal. Generally, these cushions should be

replaced within 3 to 6 months of constant use to maintain

efficacy.

Facial Marks And Nose Sores

For the most effective results, CPAP users need to ensure the

mask has an effective and comfortable seal around the nose or the

nose and mouth. We have spoken to hundreds of patients and found

that CPAP users commonly mention facial marks and nose sores are

an irritant. This issue is generally caused by over-tightening

of the mask straps. CPAP masks are designed to produce an

effective seal without applying significant amounts of pressure

to the face. In fact, if you are over-tightening your mask, it

is probably time for a new cushion or complete mask.

Nevertheless, a simple but effective solution is to put the mask

on while in bed.

While you are lying in bed, place the mask on your face and

connect the headgear so the mask is snug but not tight. A CPAP

mask is designed to have an evenly distributed seal. By placing

the mask on while lying down, it allows for a proper fit during

sleeping. Make sure that your mask fits snuggly but not to lose

as this will cause air to escape. If there is too much tension

toward the top of the mask, it can cause sores at the bridge of

the nose.

While finding a comfortable CPAP mask is ideal, having an

appropriately sized mask is crucial to effective CPAP treatment.

Many of the new style masks have implemented gel or an inflatable

type cushions that compensate for movements in any direction.

These types of masks allow for an improved seal without needing

to over-tighten the mask straps. The Respironics Comfort Gel

nasal mask and the Resmed Mirage Activa LT are two excellent

examples of this technology. Furthermore, masks such as the

Resmed Mirage Micro LT have an adjustable forehead assembly that

can be easily modified to suit each user's profile.

Cpap Pressure Tolerance

Most first-time users experience the unpleasant feeling of CPAP

air pressure immediately. The pressure is delivered from the

CPAP machine, through a tube and into the CPAP mask generally at

a fixed rate. This sensation, which can be uncomfortable to new

users, will be alleviated by using the ramp feature on your CPAP

machine. The ramp feature allows the CPAP pressure to gradually

increase over a period of time. For example, if your CPAP

pressure is 13cm/H20, you may find it more relaxing to have the

CPAP pressure start at 4cm/H20 and then " ramp up " over 20

minutes, at which time the CPAP machine will reach its prescribed

setting. This is usually accomplished while you are drifting

off to sleep so it is less intrusive. Most of the high-end CPAP

machines (auto adjusting) have a ramp feature that is automatic

and does not require manual adjustments. By using this feature

properly, the CPAP user should become accustomed to the

prescribed pressure and have less trouble securing your CPAP

mask. If problems continue, please consult with your sleep

specialist.

Conclusion

These three commonly encountered CPAP issues are all solvable.

Understanding the solutions will ensure better compliance,

provide CPAP users with a more effective treatment and aid you

in achieving improved sleep. This, in turn, will positively

affect quality of life and reduce the negative issues associated

with CPAP.

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Vasta is General Manager for The CPAP Shop.

The CPAP Shop helps its customer achieve quality, restful

sleep through the aid of CPAP supplies such as CPAP

machines (http://www.thecpapshop.com/cpap-machines.html) and

CPAP masks (http://www.thecpapshop.com/cpap-nasal-masks.html)

Learn more at: http://www.thecpapshop.com/