Important Information About Cpap Supplies

Continual positive airway pressure is a treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition that occurs when a person sleeps and the throat begins to relax allowing the airway to collapse. The person stops breathing temporarily and then starts back with a snore. The therapy uses air pressure to keep the airway open. In order for the machine to operate correctly, there are some CPAP supplies that need to be replaced on a regular basis.

Masks-The mask or interface is what allows the pressure device to interface with the nose or nose and mouth. Full face masks are available for persons that breathe through the mouth when sleeping, but most users choose a mask that only covers the nose.

Nasal pillows-Nasal pillows are a different type of interface. The pillows are smaller and just fit up against the nostrils to make a seal. The nasal pillow is made of silicon and should be replaced about every six months. As pillows start to age, they are less effective at forming a seal against the nose and can start to leak.

Filters-Since the machine is forcing air through the breathing passages, it is important that the air be free of any foreign material. In addition, the filters protect the machine from damage. Most machines use a foam filter that can be cleaned and reused and a disposable paper filter. The paper filters should be replaced at least once each month.

Head gear-The mask or nasal pillow is held in place with head gear. Headgear is often made of soft neoprene to prevent irritation of delicate facial skin. It also features Velcro adjustments that allow the gear to be customized to the exact fit of the person's head and face. Headgear needs to be replaced when soiled or when the Velcro begins to lose its power to fasten the adjustments.

Humidifiers-Adding a humidifier to the device can make the therapy much more comfortable. The amount of air required each night for this therapy can dry the respiratory passages. The humidifier adds heated water to the air to keep these passages moist and makes the therapy much more comfortable. The tank for the humidifier can become caked with scale from tap water that makes it much less effective at heating water. Replace the tank when it becomes scaled.

Tubing-The mask is connected to the machine using rigid yet flexible tubing. When using the humidifier in a cold room, the moisture can condense in the tubing creating an effect known as rain. Heated tubing is available that can keep the air warm and moist while preventing the rain effect.

There are many negative side effects from obstructive sleep apnea. It can leave the person feeling tired after a night's sleep. It can raise the blood pressure and cause the patient to awaken with headaches. Apnea can cause snoring that disturbs the sleeping partner and prevents him or her from getting needed rest. This therapy is effective at preventing apnea, but the person using the machine will need to replace CPAP supplies regularly.

In Canada, CPAP units are widely available in all provinces. Funding for the therapy varies from province to province. In the province of Ontario, the Ministry of Health's Assistive Devices Program will fund a portion of the cost of a CPAP unit. http://www.cpapmachinestore.ca