Q: When I wake up in the morning I see strap marks on my face. Is that a problem?

A: If the marks resolve quickly after awakening, then it’s not really an issue. If however, the marks progress toward pressure sores, then your mask is too tight. Remember, a tight fit is not necessarily a proper fit. A common error is to pull the headgear straps very tight. Newer masks are made of thinner, softer material which allows the mask to respond to body heat, thereby negating the need for pressure to ensure a leak free fit. Also, if you have persistent issues with masks, a zinc-oxide based adhesive tape on the sensitive areas may help alleviate the problem.

Q: Should I use a nasal mask, a full face mask, or nasal pillows?

A: In large part this is a personal issue of comfort. You may want to consider a full face mask if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping and/or if you have allergies. If you don’t like the invasiveness of wearing a mask over your face then nasal pillows might be a better alternative

Q: How often should I change my filters, tubing, and water chambers?

A: For filters, if you are using the white, disposable filters, you should change them whenever you start to see them get fairly dirty. Remember, this is the air you are breathing at night! If you have the foam, reusable filters, then you should rinse them out and let them air dry at least once every other week. We recommend replacing your tubing every month. This is because dirt and bacteria can build up in your tubing and that can cause you to become ill, but some insurances will not cover the replacement supply this often. Water chambers should be replaced at least once every 6 months.

Q: When I take a nap in the afternoon do I need to use the CPAP?

A: If you have Sleep Apnea, you have it no matter what time of day or night you sleep. If you use your CPAP faithfully you may not feel the need to nap anymore.

Q: Is CPAP a “cure” for Sleep Apnea?

A: CPAP is an on-going “treatment” for Sleep Apnea and only works if you use it! If you stop using the therapy you will revert back to the way you felt prior to CPAP intervention.

Q: What is a CPAP machine?

A: CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. CPAP therapy provides a constant airflow which holds the airway open so that uninterrupted breathing is maintained during sleep. This eliminates or reduces sleep disordered breathing events (sleep apnea) and allows you to get a restful sleep. CPAP therapy is traditionally provided through a nasal mask that seals around the nose. However, more innovative, comfortable and better sealing options are beginning to emerge.

Q: What is a Bi-PAP or Bi-Level machine?

A: Bi-PAP or Bi-Level machine uses two separate pressure settings for your therapy: An inspiratory pressure and an expiratory pressure. When you inhale, the therapy is delivered at the set inspiratory pressure, and then when you exhale, the pressure is delivered at the set expiratory pressure. The inspiratory pressure is always greater than the expiratory pressure. This type of machine is usually used for people who cannot tolerate a normal CPAP machine or for people who have other conditions along with their sleep apnea.

Q: What kind of water should I use in my humidifier?

A: You should always use distilled water in your humidifier to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits on your water chamber. This will significantly prolong the life of your humidifier

Q: Can I use any mask with my CPAP or BiLevel?

A: Yes, every mask is compatible with every CPAP or BiLevel unit on the market.

Q: If I use nasal pillows, will they make my nostrils larger?

A: No.

Q: What is the purpose of a humidifier?

A: The humidifier moistens the air that you are breathing through your CPAP. The moisture is important for the comfort and health of your nasal passages and airway. However, the amount or temperature of the moisture is subjective to each person. People who have hay fever/allergies, chronic congestion, or dry nasal/sinus passages, and people who live in very dry climates, benefit from using a humidifier.

Q: What maintenance is required on machines?

A: The only care required for machines is to clean or change the filters at the air intake of the machine to keep the internal parts from accumulating dust. There are other suggested actions to care for your machine:

• Keep the area around your machine clean. Remove any dust from around your machine to improve the air quality delivered to your machine.
• Keep the air intake of the machine unblocked. Curtains, bedding, and papers can easily block the air intake of your machine, reducing the airflow to your machine.
• If you have a humidifier, it is suggested that you do not pick up the machine with the humidifier attached. With most machines, it is easy to spill water from the humidifier into the machine and cause damage. To avoid this, it is suggested to remove the machine from the humidifier instead of transporting them together.
• If you have a humidifier, it is also suggested that you empty the water from the chamber every morning. Accidents happen. If a family pet, or family member moves the machine and humidifier, when there is water in the chamber, it is more likely an accident could happen where water is spilled into your machine.

Q: Do I Need a Sleep Study?

A: If you suspect you may have some sleep related problems – you should consult your doctor. As about sleep disorder breathing as Sleep Apnea is a serious and potentially fatal medical condition. If you feel you may suffer from this type of disorder you should be tested as soon as possible.

There are Sleep Questionnaires (such as the one listed below & posted throughout the internet) which can help you determine if you suffer from symptoms. Bring this questionnaire with you to a physician to help evaluate your condition and possible symptoms of sleep apnea.

If your physician determines a sleep study is necessary a Polysomnogram, or Sleep Study will be conducted which measures many key metrics while you sleep. These metrics are used to determine if you have Sleep Apnea or a number of other sleep related conditions such as central sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.