Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the leading therapy or “gold standard” treatment for sleep apnea. Individuals wear a face or nasal mask during sleep. The mask is connected to the CPAP machine, which provides a positive flow of fresh, filtered air that keeps the airway open. CPAP can eliminate snoring and improves the quality of sleep almost immediately.
Iowa Sleep recommends several resources to help you with your CPAP therapy.
Your Home Care Company.
Your Home Care Company is your first point-of-contact for mask/equipment questions or problems and for replacement of supplies.
Follow-Up Appointments at Iowa Sleep.
Please remember to bring your CPAP machine, smartcard and mask to every appointment at Iowa Sleep. Doing so will help us address mask leaks, pressure adjustments and any other problems you may have with your CPAP therapy. Remember to remove water from the water chamber before transporting your CPAP machine. Please direct any questions regarding CPAP checks at Iowa Sleep appointments to Lila at 515-225-0188 Extension 212.
Tips to Succeed on CPAP
Proper Mask Fit
Make sure you work with your CPAP equipment provider to find the correct mask that suits your needs. Most masks come in different sizes, and just because you’re a certain size in one mask doesn’t mean you’ll be the same size in another. Everyone has different needs and face shapes—the biggest key to success is finding the right mask for you.
Practice…Practice…Practice…
Inconsistently using the CPAP device may delay getting used to it. Stick with it for several weeks to see if the mask and pressure settings you have will work for you. It may help to start by practicing for short periods of time while you’re awake, for example; while watching TV, reading or listening to music. Once you become accustomed to how that feels, shift to using the CPAP device every time you sleep—at night and during naps. Adjust the headgear to fix any leaks, and move around to get used to the mask in your preferred sleeping position.
Prevent dryness
Nasal congestion can be a problem with CPAP treatment. Most CPAP machines have heated humidifiers that can be used in conjunction with the CPAP device. Heated humidity ensures that you are breathing warm, moist air through your mask. Heated humidifiers allow a selection of temperatures, so you can tailor the air temperature to your liking.
Frequent downloads
Most CPAP devices have the ability to store information about how the therapy is working for you. Have your CPAP equipment provider look at this data to ensure that the therapy pressures are where they need to be and that the equipment and supplies are working optimally. If you are having difficulty tolerating the therapy, it’s important to follow up with your sleep physician.
Keep up on replacing your supplies
The disposables such as the mask, headgear, tubing, cushions, filters and water chamber will need to be replaced on a regular interval to maintain optimal therapy and ensure that the CPAP device will last for years to come. It’s also important to remember to clean/disinfect the mask, tubing and water chamber at least once a week.
Iowa CPAP
For your convenience, visit Iowa Sleep’s sister company—Iowa CPAP for top-quality masks, CPAP machines and supplies.
Locations:
In Ankeny: 2005 S. Ankeny Blvd 515-223-(CPAP) 2727 (Next to The Wig and Pen)
In West Des Moines: 4040 Westown Pkwy. 515-223-(CPAP) 2727 (Next to Iowa Sleep)
Each CPAP store has extensive displays of all the latest equipment available and is staffed by experts—Respiratory Therapists who focus solely on the unique needs of individuals with sleep apnea. Iowa CPAP’s Respiratory Therapists are available to help you choose the best machine and fit you with the perfect mask. They will teach you how to use and care for the CPAP equipment and help you with any equipment problems.
Iowa CPAP’s close proximity to Iowa Sleep makes it easy to replace your CPAP supplies on a regular basis. How often you can receive new supplies depends on your insurance plan. Stop by, meet Iowa CPAP’s friendly staff and pick up a wallet card containing accepted re-supply schedules.
Iowa Sleep helped me understand what was really happening to my body and the different ways to treat it. I am impressed with their knowledge and caring.