20 Nov Popular CPAP Problems And How To Easily Fix Them
Sleep apnea is a condition that often goes unnoticed in patients for long periods of time. There are common symptoms for those that have the condition: very loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and pauses in breathing that makes someone wake up just to breathe.
Even if you experience those symptoms, the only way to really tell if you have sleep apnea is to take a sleep study. The sleep study records what happens while you sleep and confirms whether or not you have sleep apnea.
Once you know you have sleep apnea, the good news is that you can start to do something about it by looking for sleep apnea treatments in Toronto or elsewhere. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a popular and effective treatment for patients with sleep apnea. CPAP machines, which patients wear while they sleep, use mild air pressure to keep airways open during the night.
CPAP Machines
CPAP machines and CPAP accessories cover the patient’s nose and mouth with a mask which is connected by a tube to the CPAP machine. With CPAP treatment, there are a few common problems but they do have solutions. Here are some popular CPAP problems and what you can do about them.
Noise
Whether you’re using a CPAP machine or not, noise reduction for sleep is incredibly important for your overall health. One common issue with the CPAP machine is noise — the device, which is most likely quieter than your snoring, can be a source of disruptive sound.
Newer CPAP models like the ones from PROFMed Healthcare Solutions are very quiet, but if your machine is making too much noise, there could be a problem with it. First, check the device’s air filter for any obstructions.
If that doesn’t work, have your CPAP machine looked at by your doctor or CPAP supplier, there may be an issue you can’t spot. A reliable source for CPAP equipment in Barrie will be there to help you after the purchase is made. If everything is running smoothly and the noise is still an issue, you can introduce some white noise from a fan, for instance, into your bedroom or even wear earplugs.
Dry Mouth
Especially for those who breathe through their mouth while sleeping, dry mouth can be a concern. Dry mouth is uncomfortable and it can have adverse effects on your oral health like increasing your chances of tooth decay and affecting your salivary glands so it’s harder to eat and taste food.
You can combat CPAP-induced dry mouth with a chin strap that can help keep your mouth closed as you sleep. Depending on your machine model, you can adjust your machine’s humidifier settings to make things more comfortable.
Discomfort
A CPAP mask that doesn’t fit right can result in skin marks or rashes, possibly causing sores or ulcers on your face. This can be especially prominent in those with sensitive skin, but there are things you can do about it. Moisture in the air from a humidifier in your room can help with skin chapping or rashes.
You can use saline sprays as needed to prevent dry skin and decrease discomfort in and around your nose. A thin layer of petroleum jelly in between your skin and the CPAP mask can also help with discomfort.