Continuous positive airway pressure, or
CPAP, is the most effective treatment for obstructive
sleep apnea. A decision to use CPAP is a major step
forward in the pursuit of a healthier life. The
successful use of CPAP will help you breathe easier,
sleep better and live healthier. Using CPAP can be a
positive experience if you keep these key points in
mind:
1.
Commitment
CPAP is not a quick fix for your problem. It involves a
long-term commitment to improve your sleep and your
health.
2. Communication
Stay in close communication with both your sleep doctor
and your CPAP supplier. Ask lots of questions and seek
help when you need it.
3.
Consistency
Use CPAP all night, every night and for every nap. You
will receive the maximum health ben¬efits from CPAP when
you use it every time that you sleep. This will also
make it easier for your body to adjust to the treatment.
4.
Correction
The first machine and mask that you try may not be the
best ones for you. Work with your sleep doctor and your
CPAP supplier to make corrections to your equipment
selection. Ask about trying a different type of machine
or mask if you have ongoing problems.
5.
Challenge
Tell a family member or close friend to ask you each
morning if you used your CPAP the previous night. Have
someone to challenge you to give it your best effort.
6.
Connection
Your adjustment to CPAP will be easier if you are able
to connect with others who use the same treatment. Ask
your sleep doctor if there is a support group in your
area for people who have sleep apnea, or look for one on
the Internet.
7.
Comfort
Increase your level of comfort by using a saline spray,
decongestant or humidifier if CPAP irritates your nose,
mouth or throat. Use your unit's "ramp" setting to
slowly get used to the air pressure level. See if there
are soft pads you can buy that will fit over your mask
straps.
8.
Cleaning
Clean your mask, tubing and headgear on a regular basis.
Put this time in your schedule so that you don't forget
to do it. Check and replace the filters for your CPAP
unit and humidifier.
9.
Completion
Although you are never finished with CPAP therapy, you
should reward yourself by celebrating the completion of
your first month of treatment. Expect this first month
to be your hardest period of adjustment. It will involve
some trial and error as you find the machine, mask and
pressure settings that are right for you.
10.
Continuation
After your first month of treatment, continue to make a
daily commitment to use your CPAP all night, every night
and for every nap.
.