Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a major condition characterised by repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night, affecting millions of individuals. Those who suffer from OSA have trouble repeatedly breathing throughout the night because their windpipe collapses. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the gold standard treatment for individuals with OSA, which uses Resmed CPAP machines that supply pressured air via masks and hoses. Thus, providing a constant airflow, which enhances breathing and sleep.
Moreover, it might also be challenging to adjust to CPAP treatment. You will probably dislike wearing your CPAP mask the first time you use it, just like several individuals who suffer from sleep apnea. You could also be nervous about sleeping with the mask on or worry that there is no pleasant way to do so. You’re not alone since adapting to your sleep apnea treatment might be challenging. However, several strategies can help you obtain the restful sleep you need every night.
How Could You Improve The Experience Of Using A CPAP Machine?
A CPAP machine might significantly change your daily life, but there are ways to ease into it. In time, you will get so acclimated to the mask that you will no longer feel its existence. Here are some helpful hints for adjusting to life with a CPAP machine.
Using Resmed CPAP Requires Time And Effort
It’s normal for a CPAP machine to feel strange at first, similar to any other new experience. You may find it difficult to fall asleep while wearing it at first. Wear it as much as possible in the hours leading up to bedtime; don’t wait to put it on until you’re already in bed. You should wear it if you plan on lounging around the home all day. Even if you wear it for an hour or two before bedtime each night, that’s a start. The more you use it, the quicker you start having peaceful dreams.
Constantly Utilise Your CPAP Mask While You Sleep
This may be the most crucial step in adapting to your new sleep apnea treatment. In the medical industry, this is referred to as compliance. So don’t just use it one night and then forget about it the next. Even though it is a little unpleasant initially, you should use it every night and during naps. Also, use it as soon as you complete another activity, like brushing your teeth, to ease into the habit.
Moreover, it is particularly critical for new Resmed CPAP users to prevent napping since it adds to their insufficient sleep. Sleep debt, which causes you to feel more exhausted at night, is beneficial during CPAP therapy adaptation. Consequently, this makes it less difficult to go to sleep while you are adjusting to your new gear. As your fatigue increases, CPAP’s effectiveness in putting you to sleep will increase.
Change Your CPAP Mask Slightly Every Night
Each night, you might need to readjust your mask. If you find red markings on your face when you wake up, try sleeping with the mask a bit less tightly fastened. Keep it snug so it doesn’t slip off your face throughout the night. Your doctor or the company selling you the mask may give you a custom fit, but you can still make some adjustments to make it more bearable.
In addition, ensure you are lying down and using the device while performing any modifications. Lying down when using the machine is recommended to acquire the best possible fit since many masks expand somewhat when air is on.
Check That Your Mask Fits Properly
Before trying one, you could look for the best CPAP mask on the internet. It is helpful to have a specific mask in mind when getting fitted for a mask. However, discussing your sleeping habits with your physician or medical device supplier is always crucial. Also, don’t hesitate to communicate your sleep concerns to your sleep doctor. You need to speak up for yourself to ensure that you obtain a mask that fits properly.
Try Using AutoRampTM
You may find this option on many CPAP devices. While attempting to drift off to sleep, the AutoRamp feature gradually raises the air pressure until you are comfortable. Because of this, you may relax into a deep slumber and reap the full benefits of the therapy without disrupting your rest.
Utilise A CPAP Humidifier If Your Throat And Nose Are Dry
While using a CPAP machine, keeping your nasal passages and throat wet is essential. If your room is already dry, the increased air pressure will make it even drier. CPAP machines now have built-in heated tubing and humidifier, in addition to the room humidifiers that have traditionally been used. Your tongue and throat will feel better since you can adjust the humidity to your preference.
Use Gloves When You Need Help Holding Your Mask In Place
Many individuals report waking up without their CPAP mask, even though they have no recollection of taking it off at night. Gloves with little to no friction are ideal, but any will do. If you wear gloves, you won’t accidentally take off your mask in the late hours of the night. Within a week or two of training in this manner, you must be able to forego the need for gloves. After several weeks, if you are still having trouble removing your mask, it is recommended that you see your physician to talk about potential reasons and treatments.
Conclusion
You should persevere through the first discomfort of utilising a Resmed CPAP machine. Obstructive sleep apnea has serious side effects, including cardiovascular issues and severe daytime drowsiness, which may be avoided with therapy. It’s essential to coordinate efforts between your physician and the manufacturer of your CPAP mask and machine to find the optimal configuration for your needs. Regular visits to a sleep specialist may aid in the diagnosis of problems and the implementation of necessary adjustments. Finding the optimal settings and becoming familiar with the mask might take some time.
Moreover, while using a CPAP machine could take some time to get used to, the health advantages are well worth the effort. Using a CPAP mask at night may seem strange, but it will quickly become a regular part of your sleep pattern.