June 22, 2009 on 8:18 pm | In Uncategorized | No Comments

CPAP machines assist individuals who suffer from sleep apnea by opening their airways and pumping air into a mask worn while sleeping. This nightly dose of air counteracts the negative effects of oxygen-deprivation commonly experienced by people with sleep disorders. These effects can range from fatigue, difficulty thinking clearly and emotional instability to heart disease, stroke and even death.

CPAP machines are especially useful in hospital settings and for the elderly and infants. People experiencing health difficulties require adequate levels of sleep and air/oxygen more than anyone and CPAP machines provide exactly that.

Hospital Applications

Insufficient sleep and inadequate oxygen levels can significantly slow the recovery process following surgery and other major medical procedures. Individuals with sleep disorders generally bring their machines with them to the hospital. Sleep apnea machines can also be used to help people who don’t normally experience sleep disorders, but because their bodies are compromised due to disease or illness, they benefit from the increased airflow.

Sleep apnea machines greatly reduce snoring, which can create a more peaceful environment for everyone in a hospital setting. Being ill, in an unfamiliar bed, surrounded by the sounds of a hospital staff making their rounds often makes sleeping difficult. The use of a CPAP machine can improve everyone’s sleep and speed the healing process at the same time. They are also useful in preparing surgery patients for their procedure, making them healthier and stronger for the surgery.

Advantages To The Elderly

The elderly experience a specific set of conditions that can compromise their health. Poor circulation, inability to exercise, joint pain and many other factors contribute to their poor health and slow recovery times. Increasing the amount of rest they get each night and increasing airflow, and therefore oxygen, gives them the energy they need to do as much as they can for themselves, resulting in a better self-image and better health.

Congestive heart failure and chronic obstructed pulmonary disease patients can use a CPAP machine to reduce the likelihood of needing an invasive breathing tube inserted into their lungs to drain fluid, cutting down on the possibility of infection and other complications. Additionally, individuals with muscular dystrophy and stroke victims benefit in the same way from the use of sleep apnea machines.

Infants And Premature Babies Benefit, Too

Premature babies and sick infants desperately need airflow and the oxygen that it delivers, but their bodies are not always able to process it without assistance. Premature babies, in particular, are often born with underdeveloped lungs and airways that are simply unable to maintain their structural integrity, collapsing and making breathing nearly impossible. A CPAP unit can provide the airflow they need to receive the oxygen that allows them to heal, grow and develop into healthy, active alert young children.

CPAP machines can be used at different settings, depending upon the individual and their condition. For infants and premature babies, a light setting is usually just enough to keep their airways open and a steady supply of air moving through their lungs. Severely damaged lungs may require a higher setting.

Sleep apnea machines are useful in many applications, not just for sleep apnea patients. Wherever there is a need for a steady airflow, these machines can provide significant, positive results. Regardless of age, illness or medical condition, the restful sleep and high quality supply of air from sleep apnea machines can help reduce healing time, improve energy levels and increase the health and well-being of many people.

Tips for Getting Accustomed To A CPAP Mask

June 16, 2009 on 4:58 pm | In Uncategorized | No Comments

People who suffer from sleep disorders such as sleep apnea typically find themselves needing a special machine just to help them sleep through the night. These special machines are known as BiPAP (bi-level positive airway pressure) or CPAP machines (continuous positive airway pressure) and while they’re designed to help the user get a good night’s sleep, the masks can take a little getting used to, especially at first. If your doctor or sleep apnea specialist has recommended using one of these machines, read on for a few tips on getting used to wearing your CPAP mask. If you’re unable to use your CPAP or BiPAP machine as directed, you’ll never get the restful sleep you need.

Make Sure Your Mask Is Sized Correctly

Because a person’s face is made up of unique and individual features, it makes sense that a BiPAP or CPAP mask isn’t a one size fits all device. Many of these devices are adjustable, but if you can’t get a proper fit, don’t be afraid to try a different size or type of mask. The machine can’t be 100% effective if your mask isn’t the right size.

When you purchase a mask, you may receive different sized accessories with it to ensure a custom fit. Additionally, the strap that holds the mask to you face should be adjustable. It’s even possible to find a mask with special parts that you heat and mold to your face, which means the fit is completely custom.

Check To Make Sure You’re Wearing The Right Type Of Mask

Your sleep apnea specialist should be able to help you determine if you’re using the right type of BiPAP or CPAP mask. The types can range from a CPAP full face mask that cover your mouth and nose to models with small nasal ‘pillows’ that fit just under your nose. Your sleep habits should help determing which type of mask is best for you so let your doctor or sleep disorder specialist know if you prefer to sleep on your back or your side.

Determining which is the right model for your needs and lifestyle is usually a trial and error process, so ask your sleep disorder specialist for help. They’ll have the expertise to help you select the right model of BiPAP or CPAP mask.

Practice Wearing Your Mask During The Day

A CPAP or BiPAP machine won’t be useful if you find the mask difficult to sleep in. Because of this, it’s not unusual for people to need some practice wearing their CPAP full face mask or nasal pillows. Although the goal of these devices is a restful night’s sleep, it’s not something that’s achieved instantly.

It’s a good idea to practice wearing your BiPAP or CPAP mask. To start, put on your mask while you’re awake, either while reading or watching TV. If you find the sensation of forced air

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