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“The mask sits on the face, in contact with organisms on the skin. Over time, bacteria and oils on a dirty mask may give you a rash or infection on the skin,” says Dr. Epstein.
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What is a Breeze CPAP mask?
The Breeze CPAP mask, is a mask by Puritan Bennet that is designed for maximum comfort with a custom fit, while using as few straps as possible.
Can your cpap machine pressure be too high?
Yes. Excessively high pressures will cause the mask to leak and affect the CPAP's performance.
What are complications of CPAP?
Complications of CPAP may include nasal congestion or dryness, discomfort related to wearing the mask, and feelings of claustrophobia.
How do you connect cpap mask?
The CPAP mask is connected to the machine using special tubing also known as a hose. One end of the hose connects to an elbow or an adapter on the bottom of the mask. The other end of the hose connects to the CPAP machine output joint. It should fit snuggly, but not be difficult to attach. If it is, then you may not have the right size hosing or adapter for the mask/machine you are using and should contact your Respiratory Therapist, Physician, or CPAP supplier for help in trouble shooting this problem.
What is nasal CPAP?
CPAP is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. This is a system where equipment blows air into a mask that covers the nose or nose and mouth of the patient. CPAP is used to treat sleep apnea, where the sufferer stops breathing several times a night, or for severe snoring. The air pressure keeps the airways open, enabling the patient to breathe properly. Nasal CPAP is where the CPAP mask fits only over the nose. Some people find this more comfortable than a larger mask.
Can you use nasal oxygen with cpap mask?
If you are currently on oxygen therapy your physician may add it to your cpap machine via a shuttle/shunt that is connected to the tubing. Thus eliminating the need to wear the nasal canula and the mask together.
What is Aflex technology for CPAP users?
Aflex is a form of Auto CPAP. Auto CPAP reduces the pressure in the mask when you exhale. A-flex (I think this may be a term used by Philips Respironics) allows the difference between inhale and exhale pressures to be varied.
When you have sleep apnea do the mask has oxgen in it?
Not usually. Sleep apnea is treated with a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine that delivers pressurized room air to a mask or nasal "pillows". Some CPAP patients may also receive oxygen therapy, but this is unusual.
Choosing a Mask for Your CPAP?
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and prescribed a Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) Device, choosing the right mask to use with your CPAP is quite important. If the mask is uncomfortable, compliance with using the CPAP falls dramatically, and not using your CPAP can lead to very severe health problems in the future. Nasal Masks Probably the most commonly used mask is the nasal mask. This mask fits over the nose and is usually cushioned with a gel or soft plastic liner to form a good seal to prevent air leaks. Those with facial hair may have a problem with the mask sealing properly, but that isn’t guaranteed. Don’t let the tech talk you out of trying it, because you have a mustache. Some can use a nasal mask successfully with facial hair. One of the drawbacks of this type of mask is air leakage. Air can leak around the bridge of the nose can cause the eyes to dry out. Other complaints include dry nasal passages and nosebleeds, but this is often resolved with a heated humidifier attached to the CPAP. Full Face Mask A Full Face CPAP Mask covers both the nose and mouth. These masks are great for those people who have trouble breathing through their nose. With the full face mask, the user can breathe through their mouth if their nose becomes plugged. Even if you normally use a nasal mask, it is handy having a full face mask on hand for times when your nose if plugged. Again, these may have a problem sealing for those with facial hair. Try it out before you decide. Nasal Prong Masks A third option for CPAP users is the Nasal Prong Mask. These masks are becoming more popular. They consist of two prong shapes that fit into the nares with the CPAP tube running underneath and resting on the top lip. This allows the user to wear glasses, move more easily, and speak without removing the mask. This is good for those with facial hair, however, those requiring higher CPAP pressures may not be able to use these masks.
How to clean your CPAP machine?
Your CPAP machine should be cleaned every 1-2 weeks. Take a cloth, dampen it with small amount of water (only water). Wipe down all of the external surfaces. If you have a humidifier attached to your machine, take out the water chamber and wipe down the inside of the machine. Empty the water chamber and thoroughly clean the surfaces on the inside with mild detergent, rinse thoroughly and air dry. Your tubing can be cleaned using a tube cleaning kit which can be purchased from many CPAP suppliers. However, minimally it is recommended to replace it every three months. Your mask should be taken apart and cleaned with mild detergent every 1-2 weeks, then rinse and let air dry. Mask cleaning wipes can be purchased from CPAP suppliers as well. These are used daily to wipe down the mask pillows that cushion the face to remove the skin oils that have collected throughout the night. Your mask cushions should be replaced every 1-3 months depending on your type of mask and the insurance guidelines. The frames will usually need to be replaced every 6 mos to a year. Most insurances will cover a new mask every 6 mos.
How often should you change the cushion on your CPAP Mask?
Probably more often than you would think! CPAP mask cushions, nasal pillows all pick up facial oils, in spite of your cleaning efforts. They simply start to break down and lose their effectiveness! You should clean your mask cushion regularly with warm soapy water. Make sure your get in the habit of washing your face before you go to bed each night to remove any facial oils or anything else on your face that may affect the seal of your interface or mask. You will sleep better if you do! Better seal means better Sleep! === ===
What is a CPAP Hose Management System?
A CPAP Hose Management System is something very simple but very unique and effective for those who use CPAP. First of all CPAP is an acronym for Continious Positive Airway Pressure. It is probably the most commonly prescribed treatment for those who have obstructive sleep apnea. It works by blowing air from a device (CPAP) into flexible tubing attached to a mask or some sort of interface which blows this pressurized air into your nostrils, mouth or both. This action helps prevent the patients airway from closing while sleeping. One of the biggest problems with CPAP use, is the hose itself. CPAP user's who sleep with CPAP are very familiar with dealing with a CPAP hose. The hose is attached to a CPAP device typically on a nightstand adjacent to your bed, it typically extends over your chest feeding the mask that is attached to your face on the other end. If you want to change positions in bed, or roll over to one side or the other, you must also readjust your CPAP hose in the process. The CPAP Hose Management System or HoseBeGone's Patent Pending system allows any CPAP user to manage their hose above and behind their head while sleeping. It is lightweight, can disassemble for easy travel and fit in most any modern CPAP carry bags.
