Tips for CPAP Success
When should I replace my CPAP mask, machine, and accessories?
The life of your CPAP mask or machine can vary greatly depending on the care they are given, the brand and style of the equipment, or the amount of use.
The following are signs to look for to alert you to consider replacing your mask or machine.
- If your mask or nasal pillow system is older than 6 months. Most masks show some signs of breakdown at this point. Insurance payers will usually cover the expense of a replacement mask at this point. We can help you determine your insurance benefits for replacement equipment.
- If your mask or nasal pillow system begins to leak excessively.
- If there is a tear in the cushion of your mask or nasal pillow system.
- If your mask becomes uncomfortable to wear.
- If you begin to snore again while using PAP therapy (this can also be due to other factors and we may ask you to consult a sleep physician to address this).
- If your machine rattles or makes other noises as it is running.
- Disposable filters should be replaced after 3 months and non-disposable filters should be replaced every 6 months.
Note: Your CPAP/BiPAP machine should be checked every year to make sure it is maintaining the prescribed pressure.
Caring for my CPAP equipment.
The following chart will help you properly care for your equipment. Proper cleaning can increase the life of your mask and machine.
Cleaning Schedule
| Daily | Weekly | Monthly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mask | Rinse with warm water to remove face oils. | Clean with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly. | Inspect mask-replace if worn (every 6 mos) |
| Hose | Soak for 20 minutes with a 1:3 mix of white vinegar to water. | Inspect hose-replace if worn (every 6 mos) | |
| Water Chamber | Soak for 20 minutes with a 1:3 mix of white vinegar to water | Check chamber for leaks-replace (every 6 mos) | |
| Filter | Rinse under running water. Do not reinstall until completely dry. | Check and replace if gray |
Cleaning your machine: Unplug the PAP machine and wipe off with a damp towel as needed. Be sure machine is completely dry before plugging it in. NEVER immerse the machine in water. Doing so may cause serious electrical shock.
Troubleshooting
The following are a list of possible problems and possible solutions. Do not hesitate to call somniCare, Inc. regarding problems with your equipment.
Air blowing in your face.
Possible solutions:
- Tighten the straps evenly on your mask from one side to the next.
- If your mask has a swivel exhalation port, make sure it is turned away from your face.
- Check the mask or nasal pillows for obvious tears or holes.
- Check the connection of the tubing to the mask.
- Call somniCare, Inc.
There is a “whistle” noise coming from the mask.
Possible solutions:
- Be sure the exhalation ports are not partially occluded.
- If using a humidifier in line with the CPAP, be sure there is no excess water accumulation in tubing.
- Call somniCare, Inc.
Condensation or rain-out in your tubing or mask.
Possible solutions:
- Increase the temperature of your bedroom.
- Decrease the setting of your heater on the humidifier.
- Use a cloth wrap to insulate your tubing or tuck the tubing under the covers with you.
These suggestions are designed to equalize the temperature difference between the room air and the air being warmed through your tubing, which is what causes condensation.
Machine does not turn on. No air is coming out of machine. Or machine runs intermittently.
Possible solutions:
- Be sure the power cord is firmly attached to the machine in the back as well as to the wall outlet.
- Make sure the power cord is connected to an outlet that has power. Verify by plugging in another appliance to that outlet.
- Contact somniCare, Inc.
The air from the machine seems hotter than normal.
Possible solutions:
- Check the filters. They may need to be cleaned which will allow air to cool the unit.
- Be sure there is at least one foot of air space around the entire machine, and no vents are obstructed.
Solutions to Common Discomforts
Getting accustomed to PAP therapy can take some time. Not everyone can immediately use their equipment all night, every night. It is important to your health and well-being that you try, but be patient with the process that it takes for your body to become accustomed to therapy. See our CPAP Desensitization section for tips on how to gradually get used to wearing a CPAP mask to sleep at night.
The following are common problems that you could experience when getting used to PAP therapy and the solutions that may work for you. Never hesitate to call somniCare, Inc. for assistance or with questions about therapy.
Eye Irritation
Possible solutions:
- Be sure the mask is fitted correctly to your face.
- Be sure the headgear is tightened evenly (and not over-tightened).
- Contact somniCare, Inc. for a mask refitting.
Skin Irritation
Possible solutions:
- Make sure you are properly cleaning the mask and rinsing thoroughly. Your mask should be washed or wiped down daily. The oils from your face build up on the mask and can cause skin rashes if not removed from the mask between uses.
- Call somniCare, Inc.
Stuffy Nose
Possible solutions:
- There is a “learning” curve for your body to adjust to PAP therapy and usually stuffiness will resolve over time. However, your physician may recommend nasal sprays or decongestants to help you or address any specific issues you may have with congestion.
- Humidifiers can greatly help with congestion.
- Call somniCare, Inc. for help.
Dry Mouth or Throat
Possible solutions:
- This may be corrected with the use of a humidifier.
- This may be caused by your mouth coming open while you sleep. Call somniCare, Inc. for more information about possible solutions by using a chin strap.
- Use of saliva producing product before and after therapy use. Call somniCare, Inc. for more details.
CPAP Desensitization:
Have you been experiencing difficulty getting used to your CPAP system? Is the mask or air pressure giving you feelings of claustrophobia or anxiety? If so, here are some tips for you:
Step 1: Attach the mask to the CPAP device, and switch the unit “on.” Use the ramp feature at this time if you wish. Wear the CPAP mask at home while awake for one hour each day. Practice breathing through the mask while watching television, reading, or performing some other sedentary activity.
Step 2: Use the CPAP during scheduled one hour naps at home.
Step 3: Use CPAP during the initial 3-4 hours of nocturnal sleep.
Step 4: Use CPAP through the entire night of sleep.
Advance by one step after five days or once the step can be completed without anxiety.