We are here to help you reduce sleep apnea and stop snoring in order to restore your rest and provide protection against long-term effects of sleep apnea disorder. For our patients who are receiving sleep apnea treatment for we want to provide you with helpful, practical tips on maximizing your personal comfort utilizing the CPAP device.
CPAP Comfort Tips
- If your face becomes red or sore from the use of your apnea CPAP snoring device, readjust the mask, loosen it, and always turn the pressure on first before putting the mask on. This will allow the mask cushion to “inflate,” then turn to your side(s) and make adjustments by pulling the mask away from your face, slightly, then letting it rest against your face. It is important to never make your mask adjustments sitting upright, since sleeping in that position is unlikely.
- If you begin to have irritation on the bridge of your nose, loosen the mask, and use either a band-aid, or cotton cosmetic pads to protect your nose from continuous irritation.
- If you experience a dry nose or throat, increase the heated humidifier and/or use saline nasal spray.
- If nasal draining or sneezing occurs, increase humidification on your unit. A doctor should be consulted if your mouth remains dry, you may need a chinstrap or full-face mask.
- If you experience irritation in the nostril(s), use a wax-based product (i.e. Carmex, beeswax products or gel). It is not recommended to use petroleum-based products (i.e. Vaseline).
Hint: Always wash your face to remove facial oils before using your apnea CPAP snoring device mask to help eliminate leaks and increase the life of the silicone cushion. It is also recommended to wipe down the silicone cushion before using to eliminate traces of the chemicals used in manufacturing.
Care Tips:
- To clean the mask, use vinegar/water solution (1:4) to disinfect and help eliminate body oil, dirt, dust and/or bacteria. This is a very important step to take after a cold/flu/sinus infection or any other illness that affects the airway.
- DO NOT USE alcohol to clean CPAP masks as it may deteriorate the cushion.
- DO NOT USE any cleaners containing fragrance or harsh soaps, e.g., Softsoap®, etc. This will leave residue on the CPAP mask or tubing and increase nasal reaction. Rinse thoroughly to insure that no detergent/soap residue remains.
- Headgear can be washed using warm/soapy water or Woolite and allow to air-dry. DO NOT USE bleach on headgear.
- Check CPAP filters weekly. Foam filters may be washed but should be replaced every few months. Replace dirty or old pollen (white) filters to eliminate bacteria.
- Your CPAP interface (mask or nasal pillows), headgear and tubing should be cleaned weekly to reduce replacement.
*This information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment or with any question you have regarding a medical condition.
Accessory Replacement Recommendations:
Full Face Mask Frame: Every 6+ months
Full Face Mask Cushion/Foam: Every 2-3 months
Nasal Mask Frame: Every 6+ months
Nasal Mask Cushion/Gel/Foam: Every 2+ months
Nasal Pillow Style Interface Cushions: Every 2+ months
Headgear: Every 6+ months
Filter (Disposable): Every 1-3 months
Filter (Non-Disposable): Every 2-6 months
