What Accessories Do You Need With A CPAP Machine?
CPAP machines can often come with a variety of challenges. The mask can sometimes leak air instead of directing it to you and your skin can become irritated from continued wear. It can be hard to fall asleep and stay asleep comfortably. You can experience dry nose or eyes or even some nasal congestion. After a few weeks of these problems, it can feel like the help your CPAP machine was supposed to provide is only making things worse.
The good news is, that all of these issues have easy solutions, the correct CPAP accessories can make a world of difference when it comes to your comfort and getting good, quality sleep.
7 Essential CPAP Accessories
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure and its primary use is to treat individuals with sleep apnea by delivering pressurized air through a mask that is worn while you sleep. The constant, gentle flow of air prevents your tongue, uvula, and soft palate from getting in the way of your breathing, ultimately increasing restful sleep and decreasing your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, and heart disease.
The problem is, that wearing a mask to bed can be a big disruption to some individuals. To make your CPAP machine more comfortable no matter where you’re sleeping, some must-have accessories will make life, well, just a little easier.
1. CPAP Pillows
First on the list is a specially designed, contour pillow. Traditional pillows cannot accommodate the mask and the hose which often forces CPAP machine users into uncomfortable sleeping positions. Traditional pillows can disrupt the hoses and stop or decrease the flow of air throughout the night. CPAP machine pillows reduce air leaks and soreness, making sure you get the quality rest you deserve.
2. Headgear & Tube Covers
Although CPAP machines come with the basic headgear and tubes, wearing them all night long is uncomfortable for most users. The straps that hold the mask in place can leave marks and the tubing material can irritate. Covers are designed to wrap the straps and tubing in soft fleece that eliminates strap marks and helps with skin irritation. They’re washable, too, making them a great CPAP accessory to have.
3. CPAP Batteries
Portable CPAP machine batteries can be one of the best investments in terms of accessories to make with your CPAP machine. Backup batteries are essential to have in case of a power outage, but beyond that, they’re also great for traveling or for uninterrupted sleep in case there are no outlets available near you.
4. CPAP Machine Filters
Because the machine provides a continuous flow of pressurized air directly into your airway, it’s critical to use high-quality, clean machine filters. Choose a filter that is rated for your lifestyle. For example, you’ll want a filter that removes pollen, dust, and other allergens if you struggle with allergies.
5. Heated Humidifiers
One of the most common sources of discomfort for CPAP users is the way their throat, nose, eyes, and mouth feel extremely dry when they wake up. This can be exacerbated when the weather is a bit cooler and your house is already feeling slightly dry from the change in humidity. Adding a heated humidifier to your list of CPAP accessories provides seamless moisture control so you’ll wake up feeling rested, sans a scratchy throat.
6. Nasal Spray or Gel
Another option to consider is nasal spray or gel. Both products are designed to coat the soft, delicate tissue on the inside of the nose, creating a protective layer that prevents the nose and throat from getting dry. In severe cases, dry nasal passages can cause nose bleeds and even infection, so a protective spray can be a lifesaver.
7. Skin Moisturizer
Along with airway dryness, many CPAP machine users experience skin irritation including dry, flaky patches where the mask and headgear make constant contact. Even with the soft, fleece covers, it can still cause some dryness. While this may seem like no big deal, dry skin against the headgear can sometimes lead to a damaged skin barrier with little chance of healing since the CPAP machine must be worn every night. Specially formulated moisturizer made with all-natural ingredients and no petroleum is a must-have CPAP accessory to ensure both a good night’s sleep and soft, protected skin.
How To Clean and Care For Your CPAP Machine
Although CPAP machines have been around for more than 3 decades, a core reason they’ve been so successful is because the CPAP equipment is regularly cleaned.
To ensure the best results, you should always disassemble the mask, tubing, and water chamber (if using a humidifier), clean the mask, and then the tubing. It’s best to use a cleaning solution of warm water and a tiny bit of soap. Make sure to swish the tubing and the mask through the water so every part is sanitized. Then rinse thoroughly and allow to dry before putting the CPAP machine parts back together.
It’s important to note that you should never use harsh chemicals like bleach, alcohol, or ammonia to clean a CPAP machine as these can be deadly when inhaled.
Once a month the filters and all parts should be inspected for wear and tear or to look for any signs of damage. Some filters are washable and can be reused while others must be replaced every 6 months.
One final tip for cleaning and caring for a CPAP machine is to always use only distilled water. Tap water, even when filtered, can leave behind residue and mineral buildup that will damage the machine or worse, cause further health problems.
Essential CPAP Accessories From Affordable Medical Supply
At Affordable Medical Supply, we know how important having access to the right equipment, education, and support is for you as an individual, for families, and care givers.
We offer care-based, compassionate solutions, educational resources, and a wide range of medical equipment and supplies.
From CPAP accessories to daily aids and wound care, check out our comprehensive list of medical supplies or ask us a question directly at 866-484-7599.
