By: Hillary Flores 04/05/2023

Do you struggle with getting a good night's sleep? Do you wake up tired and groggy, even after a night's rest? If so, you may suffer from sleep apnea, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Thankfully, there is a solution that can help you get better sleep and improve your overall health.

CPAP Therapy. 

CPAP, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is a treatment that uses a machine to deliver a steady stream of air pressure to your airways, keeping them open and preventing pauses in breathing. The truth is it takes time for you to get used to using CPAP therapy. This time varies according to each person, and it’s impossible to predict precisely how long it may take for you. What is known is that once you are comfortable using your CPAP therapy, getting a healthy night’s rest, and feeling more alert and cheerful during the day, this relatively short adjustment period and the effort you put into it will have been well worth it. 

In this beginner's guide, we'll go over some roadblocks you may encounter when starting therapy and some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your CPAP experience. So, if you're ready to say goodbye to restless nights and hello to better sleep, let's get started with CPAP 101.

 

Suggestions for beginner CPAP users. 

1. Start using your CPAP therapy while you rest, watch tv, or read. This will help you get used to how the air from your machine and wearing your mask feels when falling asleep at night. 

2. Next, create a bedtime routine with your CPAP. It’s recommended to use CPAP therapy every night and for every nap. Using your CPAP therapy consistently increases health benefits and makes it easier for your body to adjust to the therapy. 

3. Make some adjustments to improve your comfort. While lying in bed, gently adjust your mask straps and headgear until you fit well. Some accessories can make the experience of getting used to your therapy more comfortable, like the RemZzz or cloth liners, along with other items available on CPAPnation.com

4. Make sure the mask you have is a good fit. One of the most common issues with beginners is needing help with their masks. If you have tried using proper mask fit and adjustment techniques and are still having difficulties, it may be a size or style issue. If a mask is too big, it can lead to over-tightening of the straps, which can cause irritations to the skin. A mask that is too small will not seal well and can cause air to leak from the edges. The air may also blow into your eyes. 

If you are experiencing any of these issues, you can speak with one of our sleep experts at CPAPnation for assistance and check out the variety of masks available on our website at www.CPAPnation.com. 

 

Other Issues

Pressure acclimation 

Another common issue for CPAP beginners is that the pressure feels too high. The newer model machines have a ramp feature that can gradually increase the air coming from your machine. The ramp mode will start the pressure low and gradually increase it over a set time. This allows you to fall asleep before the prescribed pressure level is reached. 

 

Dry nose, mouth, or throat

You can adjust the setting on your humidifier if you have a dry nose, throat, or mouth. The humidifier provides warm moist air through your mask and can be adjusted by you to meet your specific needs for humidity. 

 

Cleaning your CPAP

Also important; cleaning your equipment and changing out disposable supplies as recommended. This process is not complicated and most manageable if you incorporate it into your routine. Having clean equipment will make your CPAP therapy experience more comfortable, and you’ll be more likely to continue regular and consistent use of your therapy. 

 

Suppose you are having trouble adjusting to your PAP therapy. In that case, CPAPnation's professional and friendly team of sleep experts is ready to help you identify and overcome issues preventing you from getting that good night’s sleep with your CPAP therapy. Please call one of our experienced technicians for assistance at our toll-free number, 800-673-1220, or email us at info@capnation.com. 

 

Citations 

References – Sleep Education - American Academy of Sleep Medicine
https://www.raleighcapitolent.com/blog/beginners-guide-to-cpap-machines
https://cpap101.net/home
https://snugell.com/blogs/cpap-101/cpap-tips
https://dentalsleeppractice.com/cpap-101-the-dark-side-of-the-moon/

 

Disclaimer: The information provided on CPAPnation.com is solely for educational purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. CPAPnation.com is not responsible or liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or products that you obtain through this site. Reliance on any information provided by CPAPnation.com is solely at your own risk.