Tag Archive for: Caring for your CPAP

CPAP Portable Battery Pack for CPAP users on the Go

/in , /by

Stay Powered Up: The Ultimate Solution for CPAP Users on the Go

As the summer months approach, many of us are eager to embark on outdoor adventures, from camping in the wilderness to road tripping along scenic routes. However, for individuals who rely on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines for a restful night’s sleep, the idea of venturing into the great outdoors can be daunting. Traditional CPAP machines rely on a constant power source, making it challenging to use them in remote locations where electricity is scarce. But fear not, because there’s a game-changing solution on the market: the CPAP Portable Battery Pack.

Unleash Your Freedom:

Imagine being able to enjoy the beauty of nature without worrying about your sleep apnea treatment. With the CPAP Portable Battery Pack, that dream becomes a reality. Priced at just $400, this innovative accessory offers unparalleled freedom for CPAP users. Compatible with Respironics CPAP and ResMed CPAP machines (excluding BiPAP or ASV models), this battery pack is the perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts and frequent travelers alike.

CPAP Convenience Redefined:

Gone are the days of relying on unreliable power sources. The CPAP Portable Battery Pack is compact, lightweight, and designed for maximum portability. Whether you’re camping under the stars or embarking on a cross-country road trip, this battery pack ensures that you never have to compromise on your sleep quality.

Simple and Easy to Use CPAP Battery Pack:

One of the standout features of the CPAP Portable Battery Pack is its user-friendly design. Simply plug your CPAP machine into the battery pack, and you’re ready to go. With a single charge, this powerhouse can keep your CPAP running for multiple nights, allowing you to focus on making memories instead of worrying about power outlets.

Safety First:

Rest assured that your CPAP machine is in good hands with the CPAP Portable Battery Pack. Engineered with safety in mind, this battery pack features built-in protection mechanisms to prevent overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. You can sleep soundly knowing that your device is powered by a reliable and secure source.

Don’t let sleep apnea hold you back from experiencing life to the fullest. With the CPAP Portable Battery Pack, you can take your CPAP therapy wherever your adventures take you. Say goodbye to sleepless nights in the great outdoors and hello to restful sleep under the stars. Invest in your comfort and convenience today and make this summer one to remember. Contact our Durable Medical Equipment supplies department at [email protected] for more information or to schedule a pick-up appointment.

Can a Dirty CPAP Make You Sick?

/in , /by

Can a Dirty CPAP Make You Sick?

Why keeping your CPAP clean is important

Do CPAP machines really get dirty? Yes! A dirty CPAP machine can harbor germs and make you sick if they are not cleaned regularly.

Over time, bacteria and oils on a dirty mask may give you a rash or infection on the skin. If the water tank is not cleaned regularly there is the potential for bacteria or mold to grow.

If you are frequently sick or experience any of the following symptoms a dirty CPAP machine could be the problem.

  • Congestion
  • Runny nose
  • Sinus infections
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Skin irritation
  • Airway/lung irritation
  • Respiratory infection

Regularly cleaning your CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is essential for several reasons:

  1. Hygiene: Cleaning your CPAP machine helps maintain good hygiene by removing bacteria, mold, and other potential contaminants. The warm and moist environment inside the CPAP machine provides an ideal breeding ground for these microorganisms, which can lead to respiratory infections and other health issues if inhaled.
  2. Preventing Allergies: Dust, pollen, and other allergens can accumulate in the CPAP machine over time. If not cleaned regularly, these particles can be released into the air you breathe, potentially triggering allergies and exacerbating respiratory conditions such as asthma.
  3. Prolonging Machine Lifespan: Proper maintenance and cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your CPAP machine. Dust and dirt buildup can cause clogs and reduce the effectiveness of the machine. Regular cleaning ensures that the components function optimally and reduces the risk of mechanical failures.
  4. Maintaining Efficacy: A clean CPAP machine delivers the prescribed air pressure effectively. If the mask, tubing, or filters are dirty, the airflow may be obstructed, reducing the therapeutic benefits of CPAP therapy. Cleaning the machine regularly helps maintain consistent and adequate air pressure, ensuring optimal treatment for sleep apnea or other respiratory conditions.

Remember a dirty CPAP can make you sick. So, with regular care, maintenance, and cleaning your CPAP will provide a more pleasant sleep experience and help you breathe easier.

Check out our CPAP Cleaning Instructions Here.

CPAP Cleaning Devices – What You Need to Know

/in , /by

CPAP Cleaning Devices – What You Need to Know.

If you use a CPAP or PAP therapy device to treat your sleep apnea, you know it can be difficult to keep up a regular cleaning schedule. A dirty CPAP machine can contain germs, viruses and bacteria that can make you sick. So, I can understand how the automated machines advertised on TV that claim to clean and disinfect your CPAP might look like a good option. But there is more you should know.

No home CPAP cleaning devices that use ozone gas or UV light have been approved or cleared by the FDA. The FDA has not determined whether CPAP cleaning devices are safe. The FDA does not have evidence whether CPAP cleaning devices work to clean or disinfect CPAP equipment of germs or allergens. FDA Feb 27, 2020

What Types of Machines That Claim to Clean CPAPs are Being Sold?

There are two main types of machines that claim to clean CPAPs. One uses ozone gas and the second type uses ultraviolet (UV) light. Ozone gas and UV light machines that claim to clean, disinfect or sanitize continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices or accessories (such as masks, tubing, headgear) do not have FDA clearance or approval. This means that the FDA has not found that these cleaners work to kill germs on CPAPs or that they are safe.

UV Light Machines

The FDA has not received data or evidence from manufacturers that says UV light can clean the inside surface of CPAP hoses, or information to confirm that UV light does not damage CPAP machines. They do not have evidence that machines using UV light protect you from unsafe levels of UV radiation exposure. Direct exposure to UV light may cause injury depending on its wavelength, intensity and exposure time. Additionally, the UV light may not be able to penetrate all components of CPAP devices and accessories, like the plastic tubing, masks and connectors, which could lead to inadequately disinfected components that may be unsafe for people to reuse.

Ozone Gas Machines

Ozone is a gas that can be used to kill harmful bacteria. However, for ozone to be effective in killing harmful bacteria, it must be present at a concentration far greater than what is considered safe for humans. Although products claiming to clean, disinfect or sanitize CPAP devices that use ozone gas claim that they are designed to keep ozone gas inside the machine and its accessories, leaks can occur at tubing connections, filters or through containers used to house CPAP accessories. When leaks occur, ozone gas in the room where the devices are used may temporarily rise to unsafe levels especially if the room is small or not well ventilated.

Additionally, if the newly cleaned CPAP machine or accessories that are used without first allowing fresh air to completely circulate through the entire CPAP system to remove any remaining ozone gas. It could lead to someone inhaling ozone gas, which could cause breathing problems.

Watch This Before Using Ozone Gas or UV Light CPAP Cleaning Devices

Patient Complaints

There have also been complaints from CPAP users of a chemical smell, dizziness, and headaches. Some people have had irritation to breathing passages (nose, throat, and lungs), particularly for those who have respiratory sensitivity such as asthma or allergies. In addition, many CPAP manufactures will void the warranty if a mechanical cleaning device is used due to possible damage to the CPAP units.

Why Does My CPAP Machine Need Cleaning?

Germs from your lungs, throat, or mouth can get into the CPAP mask or hose as you breathe in and out during sleep. Additionally, germs on your skin may get transferred to the CPAP mask or hose. Dust, mold, pet hair or other allergens may also get into the CPAP mask or hose.

All CPAP machines need to be cleaned regularly so that these germs and contaminants do not grow inside of your equipment and make you sick. Dust and dirt can also cause problems with the machine, making it more likely to break or need replacement.  Please visit CSCC website for recommended cleaning instructions.

Alternative Treatment Option

Patients diagnosed with Mild to Moderate OSA can seek CSCC to see if they are eligible and may benefit from Oral Appliance Therapy.  Please visit https://comprehensivesleepcare.com/our-services/cpap-alternative-oral-appliance-therapy-for-sleep-apnea/.

Six Tips to CPAP Success

/in , /by

Six Tips to CPAP Success

Trouble getting comfortable with your CPAP machine? Here are some tricks and tips to being successful with your CPAP therapy at home!

PAP therapy – such as CPAP, BiPAP, ASV, etc. – can be challenging to use at first, but with the following tricks and tips, for CPAP success you’ll have yourself saying “Hello!” to sleep again before you know it.

  • Rid yourself of preconceived notions regarding the CPAP machine!

    • Most people know a family member or friend who is using a PAP machine, and he or she might love it, or hate it. Everyone goes through a very unique experience with his or her therapy, so keep your mind as open as possible, and do not let someone else’s experience influence your own.

  • Breathe naturally

    • When you first wear a PAP machine, you may be inclined to try to regulate your breathing and put in a conscious effort at inhaling and exhaling. But don’t! This can induce panic and may make you want to take the mask and machine off. Breathe naturally, and with time, typically the positive pressure becomes more comfortable.

  • Consistency of usage is key

    • “Practice makes perfect” applies to PAP therapy! The more you use the machine, the easier it becomes. On nights when you feel like you have had enough with your machine, try your best to push through. If you do need to take a brief break and step away from the therapy for a moment, do so, but plan to put the mask and machine back on before you fall back asleep for the rest of the night.

  • The mask can make or break the treatment

    • Work closely with our DME technicians to ensure that you have the best mask style and size suited for your mode of PAP therapy, your pressure settings, your facial structure, and your preferred body positioning during sleep, among other defining elements. A mask that does not fit well makes for a poor night’s rest with the machine, as the airflow can “leak” out, causing disruptive noise and discomfort.
    • Practice “mask desensitization” if you are having a hard time keeping your mask on, all night long. This involves wearing the mask and headgear for at least 45 minutes prior to bedtime, in an effort to “normalize” the apparatus and get your brain and body acquainted with the equipment before you attempt to sleep.

  • Take advantage of comfort features on your machine

    • Don’t forget about the features below for optimal comfort, and contact our DME team if you need additional assistance or further instructions on how to utilize or adjust the following:
      1. Humidifier settings – can help with dry mouth and dry mucosa
        1. Increase the level for more moisture
          1. If your tubing is “gurgling” due to water condensing in the tubing or mask when you increase the setting, ask a DME technician about a heated tube.
        2. Decrease the level for less moisture
      2. RAMP – can help you fall asleep with PAP therapy by lowering the pressure
        1. Hitting the RAMP button will drop the pressure to a lower setting (i.e. 4 cm H2O) and allow the pressure to gradually build up to your final prescribed pressure over a period of time (i.e. 30 minutes)
  • Flex – can provide extra relief when you inhale, exhale, or both, depending on your mode of PAP therapy and machine manufacturer

  • Keep your sleep medicine team involved

    • If you are having a problem using and/or tolerating your PAP therapy, let us know so we can help!

 The more you use your machine, the more you will get used to it. Give yourself time to adjust. So, stick with it and soon enough you’ll start to realize just how much treating your sleep apnea improves your sleep and your quality of life! And you can Say Hello to Sleep Again!

Think you are caring for your CPAP correctly?

/in , /by

Think you are caring for your CPAP correctly?

Take this quiz to find out.

One of the most important factors in maintaining CPAP compliance is taking care of your CPAP equipment. Fortunately, caring for your CPAP equipment can be easy. By making it part of your morning routine you will keep your device and accessories working properly. And say hello to sleep again…

1. The water in the humidification chamber needs to be cleaned out daily?

         Yes      No

The answer is a resounding yes. Emptying out the water helps prevents bacteria and calcification build up.

  • Remove chamber from humidifier carefully so water doesn’t enter your CPAP machine.
  • Open chamber and wash with warm, soapy water.
  • Rinse well with water and allow to dry on a clean cloth or paper towel out of direct sunlight.

2. Once a week, the humidification chamber needs to be completely washed?

Yes      No

Again, the answer is YES.

  • Once a week the humidifier chamber should be soaked in a solution of 1-part white vinegar, 3-parts water for approximately 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
  • Some humidifier chambers are dishwasher safe, but make sure to check your CPAP machine’s manual before cleaning in a dishwasher.
  • Humidifier chambers should be replaced every 6 months or as needed.

3. CPAP masks need to be washed daily?

Yes      No

The answer is Yes, (do you see a theme here?)

Most CPAP mask cushions are made of silicone. While silicone is a very comfortable material for masks, it doesn’t have a very long lifespan, and without proper care can breakdown even faster than expected. Therefore, cleaning your CPAP mask is crucial in making it efficient as possible. Here are some tips on CPAP mask cleaning and replacement:

  • Wash mask daily with warm water and mild, non-fragrant, soap or use unscented baby wipes. You can also purchase CPAP mask wipes.
  • Rinse with water and allow to air dry on a clean cloth or paper towel out of direct sunlight.
  • Before using mask at night, wash your face thoroughly and don’t use facial moisturizers. Facial oils and moisturizers can breakdown the silicone faster.
  • Once a week, soak mask in solution of 1-part white vinegar, 3-parts water before rinsing.
  • Headgear and chinstraps should be washed as needed by hand using warm soapy water, rinsed well, and air dried. Do not place headgear or chinstraps in washing machine or dryer.
  • When caring for your CPAP masks check both your manufacturer’s recommendations and your insurance allowance. However, for most masks it is recommended that you replace the cushions 1-2 times per month, and the mask every 3-6 months.
  • CPAP tubing should be cleaned weekly in a sink of warm, soapy water, rinsed well, and left to hang-dry out of direct sunlight.

4. Should you clean the non-disposable filter weekly? More if you have pets or smoke?

Yes      No

I think you know what the answer is.

Your filters are located near the back of the CPAP machine where the device draws air. Nearly all CPAP machines have a disposable filter and some have an additional non-disposable filter as well. Here are some cleaning tips for your CPAP filters:

  • Rinse non-disposable filters with water and allow to dry before placing back into your machine.
  • The re-usable filters should be replaced when it begins to look worn or after 6 months.
  • Replace disposable filters every 2 weeks or more frequently if it appears dingy or dirty.
  • Once a week, unplug device from outlet and wipe with a damp cloth.

Cleaning CPAP

IMPORTANT TIPS

  • Make caring for your CPAP equipment part of your morning routine.
  • Keep machine and accessories out of direct sunlight to avoid damaging them.
  • Never use bleach to clean accessories.
  • Place machine on a level surface and away from curtains that may interfere with the air intake.
  • Keep track of when you should order replacement parts for your mask and accessories so that you always get the most out of your CPAP.

If you have a CPAP, but are struggling with compliance, check out our no mask oral appliance, ApneaGuard, for mild to moderate sleep apnea.  Call and schedule a consultation with one of our sleep medicine physicians, or ask your doctor about a sleep referral to the Comprehensive Sleep Care Center.

If you are struggling with your CPAP or have sleep issues, contact Comprehensive Sleep Care Center for a consultation and Say Hello to Sleep Again…