Here you will find the tools and resources to help you be successful with your PAP therapy. Treating your sleep apnea plays an important role in improving your energy level and overall health.
You’ve probably already heard the word “compliance” a lot during your setup. As a patient, compliance means staying on therapy consistently. It’s a personal goal for your long-term health.
It’s required the data your CPAP machine logs show you are using your CPAP equipment a specified number of hours per night and days per month for your doctor and your insurance provider. If you can’t show that you’re consistent with your therapy within 90 days, your insurance provider may not cover the cost of your CPAP.*
So, it is very important for you to reach the goal of using your CPAP consistently during your first 90 days. This means you need to use your CPAP for four or more hours per night on 70% of nights during a consecutive 30-day period. Our Sleep Solutions department will monitor your compliance wirelessly throughout your therapy to ensure you achieve your insurance provider’s 90-day compliance requirements. They will touch base with you periodically to check on your progress and coach you if needed.
Getting used to sleeping with a mask on for four or more hours a night will take time but it IS achievable! Keep at it and we will be with you every step of the way!
Getting used to your CPAP mask is different for everyone. Some people take to their mask right away while others need more time to get comfortable. Here are some important tips for adjusting to a CPAP mask when you sleep:
Wear your mask around the house
To get used to how your mask feels, disconnect it from your machine and hose
and wear it while you’re washing the dishes, folding laundry or doing other
activities at home.
Practice breathing against the pressure
Breathing against the pressure of your CPAP machine may feel unusual at first, but if you practice before you’re ready for sleep, you’ll adjust to it faster. Try listening to music, reading or watching TV in bed with your mask on.
Make small adjustments to your mask
Waking up with red marks? Loosen your mask straps in the morning. Taking your mask off during the night? Tighten it when you wake up. Make adjustments until you find the right fit. Call us if you need help!
Don’t give up!
It may take a week or longer to get comfortable with your mask, so don’t give up. Give yourself as much time as you need to feel comfortable, awake, and refreshed in the morning. And be sure to use it every night!
Try a different mask
You have options – explore them if you continue struggling with therapy. If you’re feeling claustrophobic, consider a nasal or pillows mask. If your nasal pillows are bothering you, try a nasal mask. If you’re waking up with a dry mouth or find you’re opening your mouth during sleep, a full face mask might be necessary. GIve us a call to find out your best option.
Consistency is the cornerstone of therapy, but before you’re comfortable using your CPAP each night, you may face some challenges. Don’t worry—this is normal!
Your nose and mouth are dry.
Check your humidifier tub – is it filled? Have you turned on your machine’s humidification setting? Are you opening your mouth while you sleep? Try a higher setting if your mouth and nose are dry. If you still have issues, give us a call.
You can’t fall asleep.
Initially, you may feel like you are gasping for air or being air starved. If you are on a set pressure, the ramp may need to be adjusted, call us first, then your doctor. If you are on an auto mode, your mode range may need to be adjusted—call your doctor. Try practicing with your mask on while awake, like reading with it in bed.
Your mask is leaking.
Adjust the straps of your mask until you’re comfortable with a bit of tension. Try resetting and readjusting your cushion or nasal pillows against your face. If you continue to struggle, please let us know.
Your pressure feels too high.
Many people have trouble adapting to their set pressure. If your pressure feels too high and wakes you up at night, turn off the CPAP machine and start again. Using a CPAP machine for the first time may feel unnatural, claustrophobic or uncomfortable.
If you are struggling with any issues, we are here to help you. Just give us a call and we can help guide you to better sleep.
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Have questions? We have answers for you! Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions here.
