Replacement of CPAP supplies is an important part of any CPAP routine. Most insurance companies as well as Medicare pay for regular replacement of CPAP masks, hoses, cushions, headgear and pillows. Regular replacement is key to continued comfort, compliance and cleanliness while on CPAP therapy.

Therapy compliance is critical to the continued health and well-being of sleep apnea sufferers. Studies have shown that people with untreated sleep apnea often experience increased weight gain, headaches, depression and impotency as well as health care costs twice that of treated patients. Treating sleep apnea can protect against cardiovascular events and lower hypertension and risk of stroke as well as helping with diabetes and decreasing blood pressure.

As a sufferer of obstructive sleep apnea, you are probably aware that untreated OSA can be life threatening and continual use of a CPAP machine is critical to your health and vitality. However, research shows that approximately 40%-60% of CPAP users quit therapy. The majority of CPAP users who stop using their machines cite discomfort as the reason. Of course, getting used to a CPAP machine takes some time, but once a CPAP user has become accustomed to therapy, discomfort is often attributed to not keeping equipment clean and not adhering to a regular replacement schedule.

Discomfort is often caused by dirty masks. Your mask comes into constant contact with the oils in your skin and can degrade quickly. The cushion on the mask is critical for comfort and to prevent leakages. It rests on your skin and any oils, lotions, astringents, cleaning solutions or bacteria that are on your face quickly break down the cushion materials, negating the seal.

Many CPAP users simply tighten the straps in an attempt to stop leakages. Unfortunately this can cause pressure point sores, facial discomfort and even bruising and red marks that don’t go away quickly. Tightening the mask is not the way to stop leakages on a mask that previously fit well. Replacing the mask is the only way to fix the leakage problem and regain a good seal.

Cleaning your equipment daily and disinfecting it once a week is crucial to keep bacteria and fungus from building up in your mask, hose and humidifier. But over time, even the most rigorous cleaning can no longer keep the buildup at bay. Research presented at the 2009 Associated Professional Sleep Societies meeting shows that after one year, no amount of cleaning can get rid of the bacterial buildup in a mask. Regular replacement is the only way to guarantee clean, healthy equipment.

Discomfort is also caused by ill-fitting equipment. Headgear loosens up over time, as do chin straps. Mask cushions loose their ability to seal to the face without pressure. When your CPAP equipment just doesn’t seem to do the job it used to, when you start to see an increase in mask leakage, apnea events and just aren’t as well-rested anymore, consider the last time you replaced your equipment and be sure to order more.

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CPAP chinstraps are used to keep the mouth closed at night to prevent air leakage from the mouth while using CPAP. There are many options on the market today. Most are made from a stretchy material and utilize hook–and-loop closures for fit and sizing. They keep the mouth closed by wrapping around the head from the top and back of the head to the chin.

Respironics Premium chinstrap:
$25

Pros

This chinstrap needed to be replaced every six months or so, but was inexpensive enough for this not to be a problem. Some reviewers reported good results and deeper sleep with the chinstrap and had no problems with fit or comfort.

Cons

Some reviewers found that the Respironics Premium chinstrap didn’t fit all size heads and that it slid off easily during the night. Some felt the fabric was not very soft and it didn’t last long before it stretched out. Others found that the Premium chinstrap didn’t prevent mouth leaks and that it was difficult to fit mask over it.

ResMed Sullivan chinstrap:
$15.95

Pros

The ResMed Sullivan chinstrap is thin, lightweight and not bulky. Reviewers liked the simplicity of this chinstrap. The lack of a strap for the back of the head was a problem for some, but other reviewers found it to be more comfortable.

Cons

As with the Respironics Premium, some reviewers noted that this chinstrap didn’t fit all size heads and slipped off as it loosened up during sleep. A few reported red mark under the chin and track marks on their cheeks if the chinstrap was tight enough to actually work to keep the mouth closed. Some wished the fabric was more comfortable where it sits next to the sensitive skin on the face. The Sullivan doesn’t have a back of the head strap to keep it from sliding off and some reviewers found this to be a problem.

Cardinal Health PURESOM Premier chinstrap:
$19.99

Pros

Reviewers liked that this chinstrap has a strap going behind the head for extra security at night. The chin cup was described as being somewhat small, so the fit was better for smaller reviewers. With less Velcro, some reviewers felt the chinstrap didn’t catch as easily on headgear and the fabric was comfortable and breathable.

Cons

Reviewers felt instructions on how to use this chinstrap were not adequate as the straps were more complicated than other chinstraps. The Premier chinstrap has less elastic than other straps and was not found to be very durable.

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Pressure Range: 4 to CPAP; user adjustable
Ramp Time: 0 to 45 min. in 5-min. increments
Dimensions: 7.5″ L x 5.0″ W x 3.125″ H 19 cm L x 12.7 cm W x 7.9 cm H
Weight: 2.2 lbs
Cost: $545

Description:

The Respironics M Series Auto CPAP with A-Flex is a small and technologically advanced CPAP unit that includes clinical features and A-Flex in addition to self-adjusting pressure. Respironics Encore software will allow the user to track their nightly data. A humidifier is not included but is available. Uses AC power but can utilize battery power with an adapter. This unit travels well and is relatively quiet.

According to Respironics, “A-Flex is a comfort feature built on top of the REMstar Auto algorithm. If breathing events occur, the auto algorithm raises the A-Flex pressure profile to eliminate those events, while simultaneously making sure that pressure never rises to a level that’s unnecessarily, and uncomfortably, high.”

Most reviewers appreciated the A-Flex technology for ease of sleep, but found the machine to be slightly louder than others and that the lights kept them up at night. Reviewers found the machine easy to travel with and easy to set up and use.

”The respironics/remstar Auto with A flex model M BiPAP machine meets all of my needs. It is well built, easy to set up and use. With the A flex and the C flex features I sometimes have to pull my mask away from my face so I can be sure the machine is running. It operates that smoothly!”

“This machine is great in that it only gives the pressure needed when it is needed, which makes it easy to get used too and very comfortable to sleep. I previously had a machine that was at a constant pressure and had many issues sleeping with it due to the high pressure setting, so I did not use it as much as I should have.”

Machine purchase includes: M Series Auto CPAP machine, SmartCard module with SmartCard, 6 feet of tubing, carrying case, power supply and power cord, one reusable foam filter and one disposable ultra-fine filter, manuals and optional integrated heated humidifier.

Pros

• Easy to use, compact design
• A-Flex technology
• SmartCard with Encore software

Cons
• Slightly louder than other machines
• Lighted display distracting at night

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Pressure Range: 3-20 cm H20
Ramp Time: 0-45 mins in 5 min increments
Dimensions: 4.7″ H x 6.9″ W x 7.5″ D
Weight: 2.25 lbs
Cost: $459

Description:

The Puritan Bennett Sandman Intro CPAP machine replaces the GoodKnight 420g CPAP machine in the Puritan Bennett line. The Sandman Intro is lightweight with a compact design and built-in humidifier. The humidifier adjusts the heater plate according the outside temperature to minimize condensation.

This machine is quiet and features Adaptive Pressure Stability to limit variations of CPAP pressure from inhalation to exhalation. This machine also comes with a memory and optional software package for reading apnea data.

Most reviewers liked its light weight and compact design and the fact that it comes with a humidifier. Many found it to be quiet and easy to use. Some reviewers purchased this unit as a travel or backup machine and liked it better than their original unit.

“I was so surprised when I used my Sandman Intro for the first time. It was so quiet I could hear the outside noises for the first time in years. I really like that it is so light and compact. It is also easy to set up.”

“so small and works great. Love that it is all in one unit–much easier to travel with.”

Machine purchase includes: Sandman CPAP/humidifier combo, carrying case, 6 foot hose, manuals, AC power cord, two reusable foam filters and a memory card.
.

Pros
• Small, lightweight and compact
• Features a built-in humidifier
• Easy to travel with and relatively quiet
• Good introductory machine

Cons
• Some reviewers found the product noisier than their previous machines.
• Doesn’t have pressure reduction for exhalation

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Pressure Range: 3-25 cm H2O
Ramp Time: 0-45 minutes in 5 minutes increments
Dimensions: 4.2″H x 6.5″W x 6.9″D
Weight: 2.75 lbs
Cost: $845

Description:
The DeVilBiss IntelliPAP BiLevel is a compact, powerful, durable option for sleep apnea sufferers with higher pressure needs. Like the IntelliPAP Auto Adjust, this machine is extremely quiet and comes with SmartCode technology and a 3-year warranty in addition to a reputation for reliability. The humidifier chamber is stainless steel and should last longer than other humidifiers on the market.

IntelliPAP BiLevel is a small machine, easy to travel with and can be plugged into a cigarette lighter or battery power source with an adapter.

Most reviewers liked the quick set-up, durability and reliability of this machine as well as the detailed Smart Code technology and very quiet running noise.

“Bought this machine because I needed higher levels of pressure and was pleasantly surprised at how quiet it was! It’s also very small and easy for me to travel with.”

“Great machine! SmartCode is easy to use and gives me all the information I need to analyze any overnight events, and this unit is very quiet.”

Machine purchase includes: IntelliPAP BiLevel Machine, carrying case, 6 foot hose, 8 foot power cord, one reusable foam filter, one disposable fine filter, patient manual, and clinical quick set-up guide.
.

Pros
• Inexpensive unit that has many of the same features as more expense ones
• Extremely quiet
• 3-year warranty
• Optional humidifier
• SmartCode
• Compact size
• durable

Cons
• Doesn’t change pressure for exhalation

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Cost: $121

Description:
The ResMEd Mirage Swift II Nasal Pillow is extremely lightweight – one of lightest on the market at only 2.5oz. This mask is durable, doesn’t block vision and after a redesign based on customer feedback; it expels air away from the bed partner (downward). The Mirage Swift II is very quiet with a good seal, comes with three different sizes of nasal pillows and doesn’t move around. The mask also travels well.

Most reviewers liked the ability to watch TV or read while wearing this mask as well as comfort, light weight and improved dispersal of air downward instead of to the side.

“It fits comfortably and does not leak air. The better dispersal of the exhaled air is a great improvement.”

”This is SO much quieter than the original Swift, which was so loud it kept me awake. This is silent and comfortable, and gets 5 stars because you can adjust both which side you want the hose to attach to, as well as the angle of approach. So if you want it coming from over your head, under your chin, right or left, it will work in all of them.”

“Amazing. I have tried half dozen masks in the last two months, and this is by far the most comfortable. No sore spots on the face, good seal, very comfortable. I can wear it all night.”

Machine purchase includes: mask and headgear
.

Pros
• Light weight
• Comfortable and doesn’t block vision
• Has a good seal
• Relatively durable

Cons
• Some reviewers with sensitive skin experiences breakouts from the plastic
• Some reviewers couldn’t get a good seal with the pillows

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Pressure Range: 3-25 cm H2O
Ramp Time: 0-45 minutes in 5 minutes increments
Dimensions: 4.2″H x 6.5″W x 6.9″D
Weight: 2.75 lbs
Cost: $435 without humidifier, $460 with humidifier

Description:
The DeVilBiss IntelliPAP Auto CPAP is the newest CPAP machine from DeVilBiss. It’s the quietest machine on the market requiring only 26dBA for operation compared to at least 30dBA for other machines. This machine includes an industry-leading 3 year warranty in addition to a reputation for reliability and durability.

The IntelliPAP Auto is small, easy to travel with and includes SmartCode, which can provide therapy reports via the internet with a machine generated code. Auto Adjust continuously adjusts the pressure throughout the night according to your needs. The IntelliPAP can be plugged into cigarette lighter or battery power with adapter.

Most reviewers liked the small size, quiet and durability of this machine. SmartCode was very popular with the availability to see apnea events, pressure changes and mask leakage information.

“I have used a C-Pap machine for about 10 years – have had two different ones by Respironics. I started having problems getting good quality sleep so my new doctor suggested the Intellipap. What a difference! It seems I needed several different settings during the night (from a pressure of 9 to 12) which regular c-paps don’t do. I also love how quiet it is.”

“A very nice automatic CPAP. I was surprised with the quality and quiet. I just put my mask on and plugged the machine in and that was it.”

“Neither I nor my wife can believe how quiet the machine is and I can also say I actually look forward to using the machine each night which I never thought I would ever say.”

Machine purchase includes: IntelliPAP APAP Machine, carrying case, 6 foot hose, 8 foot power cord, one reusable foam filter, one disposable fine filter, patient manual, and clinical quick set-up guide.
.

Pros
• Inexpensive unit that has many of the same features as more expense ones
• Extremely quiet
• 3-year warranty
• Optional humidifier
• SmartCode
• Compact size
• Durable

Cons

• Some reviewers found they had to adjust pressure higher than they usually would initially in order for the auto adjust to work

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Sleep disorders in the United States are estimated to represent one of the largest undiagnosed adverse health issue. Some estimates put the number at near 60 million Americans suffering from a sleep disorder, with nearly a third of these suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). There is potential that another 10 million have yet to be diagnosed. There are many types of treatment options available for OSA and they range from homeopathic remedies such as hypnosis and acupuncture, to more intensive treatments like surgery. However, it is widely recognized that the most effective method for treating those who suffer from OSA is with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. The first of these types of devices were designed by Respironics.

The most obvious result of a condition like OSA is the lack of sleep. Sleep deprivation may affect routine operations such as driving a car, normal work obligations, and social situations. It is also estimated that nearly 20 billion dollars a year are spent on health care related costs attributed to sleep disorders. However, there is a positive. Most sleep disorders have multiple treatment options that are highly effective.

Interruption of sleep due to a halt in breathing is the definition of sleep apnea. This occurs due to an obstruction within a person’s airway that eventually causes a lack of oxygen to reach the brain. The brain can sense this lack of oxygen and immediately sends signals for the person to “wake up”, which in effect reactivates the breathing. This results in a ‘snort’ or a loud ‘snore’, the signal indicating that they are waking up and will start to breathe again.

Besides the complications associated with the lack of sleep, OSA can contribute to serious life threatening diseases. When someone never gets a good night’s sleep it can affect their mental health, which can manifest itself as depression or irritability. Lack of oxygen has also been shown to affect a person’s libido, cause headaches, increase blood pressure, and increase the risk of heart disease.

For those who suffer from moderate-to-severe OSA and are willing to seek treatment, they will find that the use of a CPAP machine can be highly effective. The CPAP device consists of a mask that it is fitted around the nose and mouth and is connected to a pump that blows air into the back of the throat to keep the airway open for normal breathing. This results in unhindered sleep and a rested person.

The development of the first CPAP machine by Respironics in 1985 has served as the primary model for all other devices that have been developed since then. They are clearly looked upon as an industry leader as they were also the first to introduce the more advanced bi-CPAP device.

Respironics CPAP machines are now packaged and sold under the Philips Respironics name brand. They have one of the largest selections of both regular CPAPs and bi-CPAPs. This selection varies in price, functionality, personal preference, and quietness. Needless to say, if you are an OSA sufferer, there are plenty of options available to you, as long as you are willing to seek the help.

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Mask: 1009040-1009043

Cost: $109

Description:
The Respironics ComfortGel nasal mask is constructed with gel instead of silicone, which many reviewers preferred as softer, more flexible and more comfortable. The gel is also easily customizable if it doesn’t fit perfectly as is. The mask has quick release clips so that the headgear doesn’t have to be readjusted after getting out of bed. The newest design is a redesign by Respironics based on changes suggested through customer feedback and features reinforced headgear sockets to prevent breakage.

Reviewers enjoyed the comfort and customization options with this mask. With the redesign of the headgear sockets, mask breakage is minimized. Some wished the mask were a bit more long-lived, but since masks should be frequently replaced for optimum health, this may not be such a problem.

“I went through 4 other masks before settling on this one. It is comfortable and almost completely stopped leaks.”

“This is the first mask, out of 5 I’ve tried, that I can say I truly don’t dread putting it on every night. The gel seems to have a strange property of sealing when the mask is shifted for those of us who are side sleepers.”

Mask purchase includes: mask and headgear.

Pros

• Light and comfortable
• Gel construction generally preferred over silicone for comfort and softness
• Quick release clips make it easy to get in and out of bed

Cons
• The light weight also means the mask is not as long lived as some would like

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Even though your ResMed CPAP machine is resistant to some abuse it is still a delicate medical instrument that must be cared for properly and it is important to give it proper maintenance. The first thing that must be done is to keep it clean and free of dust. The air filter unit must be changed at least once a month and thoroughly cleaned to ensure filtered air.

The same thing goes for the hoses leading to the mask from the machine. They must be thoroughly clean to avoid dust to be blown into the patients lungs.It is important that every couple of days you check and clean the air intake unit. Failure to do so may cause the machine to stop providing you with air in the middle of the night.

Hoses must also be inspected for leaks or tears at least once per month because the leaking air may produce changes in pressure in the machine. Your CPAP operates under a sealed closed pressure system to be able to monitor the inhaling and exhaling of air. This is why hoses and any accessories must be closely inspected to make sure they are in excellent condition.

If the unit has a humidifier attached to it, it is necessary to take it off and clean the inside with a mild gentle soap and sponge. Wipe it clean before returning it to its place. Again make sure that there are no leaks left between the humidifier and the air producing unit. Do not forget to check the water reservoir every night before starting the CPAP as operation without water may damage the humidifier.

The equipment can be used with batteries or alternate current. Once every month it is important to check all connections for any tears or wear. Keep all the electric cords rolled nicely and not knotted all over the place, this may cause damage to them. When storing them, do so in their appointed slot. They are the heart of the machine and are often ignored.

The batteries that are used for emergencies should also be checked for leaks and for proper operation. If the batteries have been stored without use for a while, it is a good idea to use them for a day or so. Batteries should not be allowed to lie completely charged without use. If you will not use them for a while, take all the juice out of them before storing them.

The mask might be the most important feature in the CPAP unit that you must care for. It is important that you take your time and check it for tears every day before using it. All the straps must be in place and ready to use. These too wear down and stretch so make sure they are in good shape too. Clean it with m mild soap and dry it completely before using it again.

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