CPAP supplies to enhance your therapy

Like any device, continuous positive airway pressure (cpap) machines can be improved to suit individual needs. This
gadget includes the machine, the tube and the mask. The machine creates pressurized air that travels through the tube. From the tube, it goes into the mask that the patient breathes into. Cpap supplies come in different features depending on their manufacturers. Cpap supplies are available in most major stores and online.

The main players

Cpap machine – This was developed in 1981 by Dr. Collin Sullivan of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Australia. He was the first to develop its use as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It blows pressurized air into the airway. This prevents the throat muscles from relaxing and blocking the air passage. Companies like Respironics, ResMed, DeVilbiss and Fisher &Paykel have made developments on this machine through the years. Cpap supplies now come in different sizes, shapes, weight and features for better comfort. Some models boast of features that allows the machine to automatically adjust to a person’s breathing pattern. They can also alert users of problems encountered by the machine throughout the night. It has an indicator that tells you when you need to replace the filters or mask.

Humidifier –The most common side effect of cpap therapy is nasal stuffiness. Users often experiences itchiness, runny nose, stuffy nose and nosebleed. Heated humidifiers help lessen the chances of this from happening and also increases comfort. The humidifier is bought separately. It is either connected to the cpap machine by a tube or integrated into the machine.It is often recommended to have a humidifier. For some people, it is not necessary especially when they live in a dry environment.

Cpap mask–The cpap mask is the most critical part of the cpap machine. It is the one that is used by the user directly on the face. It is available in many styles, shapes and sizes. The main thing to consider when buying a cpap mask is the comfort. Leading companies put a lot of effort to improve their products. They strive to make it more comfortable, lighter and quieter when used.

Cpap tubing – A usual cpap tube stretches between 1 ½ feet to 12 inches long. It is usually made of light material and the insides are smooth.

The add-ons

Cpap filters – Most cpap machines need very little maintenance except for the filters. For most disposable cpap filters, it is recommended that the filter be changed every 15 days. If the filter is reusable, it should be washed with warm water and mild soap. It should also be done every 15 days. Filter manufacturers are Airsep, Breas, DeVilbiss, Healthdynne, Puritan Bennet, ResMed, Respironics, Invacare and Viasys.

Pressure valve – If you are using a stand alone humidifier, you have to prevent water from entering the machine. Sometimes, it happens that water enters from the humidifier to the cpap machine.  If not prevented, it can destroy your cpap machine. A stand alone humidifier is one that is connected to the cpap machine via tubing. The other type is the integrated humidifier which connects directly to the machine. The pressure valve stops the water from entering the machine. The pressure valve is connected to the cpap machine and the hose is connected to the pressure valve.

Tubing coupler– A tubing coupler is used when you want to join two cpap hose together to make it longer. However, extending the tube for more than 10 feet may affect the level of pressure. It is important that you consult with your doctor about the pressure adjustments for longer tubing.

Tube jacket – A tube jacket covers the length of the tube and comes in various colors. Aside from giving your cpap machine a better look, the tube jacket decreases the chances of a ‘rain out’ in the cpap machine. A rain out is when water from the chamber condenses into your cpap tube.