Get Your CPAP Machine Questions Answered

We figured that we might as well continue with the same theme we’ve been writing on in a few of our most recent posts — tips for new CPAP users. But whether you happened upon CPAP Liquidators because you are looking into CPAP machine cost for the first time, your current CPAP machine could be upgraded upon, or you are researching tips for CPAP users for a loved one, it doesn’t matter! We at CPAP Liquidators are happy to put our industry knowledge and experience to good use for you.

That’s exactly why we are starting to blog more often; we’d like to be a resource for folks who need to learn more about CPAP and BIPAP devices before making a purchase. When you do eventually end up buying a new or used CPAP machine, we want to make sure you know that CPAP Liquidators offers unmatched prices, 24/7 customer support, and high-quality CPAP and BIPAP units from name brand manufacturers.

With the intent to be a practical resource for folks who could use some guidance, we’d like to dive into the meat and potatoes of today’s blog, so read on if you are interested in getting your CPAP FAQs answered — tips for new CPAP users are found below!

Question: “What’s The Best Way To Get A CPAP Device?”

Answer: CPAP machines, which stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Machines, is used to alleviate sleep apnea symptoms. CPAP devices are the most popular way to provide obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) therapy for folks who need respiratory support while they sleep.

But before you can experience the relief that comes from CPAP support, you’ll need a diagnosis of sleep apnea before you can be prescribed a CPAP unit by your physician. Unfortunately, this process might necessitate your staying overnight for a sleep study in a sleep center. Alternatively, it’s possible for some patients to do this at home, in what is called a home sleep apnea test.

If the study reads positive for OSA, the next step is completing a CPAP titration study which will decide the specific PAP pressure to alleviate sleep apnea symptoms. Finding the correct therapeutic pressure is crucial to the entire process. After your doctor has determined this, you finally get your prescription for a new CPAP machine! Your doctor should include details about which type of device you’ll need (CPAP, BIPAP, etc.), the kind of mask setup you’ll need, and the appropriate pressure settings for your unique respiratory needs.

Question: How Long Do CPAP Machines Usually Last?

Answer: As is the case quite often, the truest answer is that it depends. The longevity of your CPAP unit depends on two things: first, the original quality of your CPAP machine in the first place; and second, how well your device is maintained and cleaned over the years. As a rule, most CPAP units last over five years. If the owner is vigilant in their care, meaning they don’t skip out on cleaning, a CPAP device lasting a decade is far from unheard of.

Ultimately, you’ll want to replace your CPAP machine before you get to the 10-year mark. This is because advances in technology are so practically beneficial that it simply makes no sense to miss out on them. Indeed, most CPAP machines that were made more than 7 years ago are virtually obsolete when compared with the host of features found on modern devices.

Question: What’s The Most Important Feature To Look For When Choosing A CPAP Device?

Answer: There are so many different features available for CPAP machines these days that it can be difficult to decide on which ones should be considered essential. In truth, it depends on each user’s specific needs and preferences, but there are still certain features which pretty much everyone would describe as helpful.

Among the many options, we’d argue that a humidification feature offers a noticeable change in comfort for many users because it softens the pressurized air. Additionally, you want a quiet CPAP machine, for both your sake and the sake of anyone who happens to be sharing a room with you! Additionally, size is important, as are ease-of-use and auto-adjust functionality.

But, again, we recommend that you speak with your doctor about which features are worth prioritizing, while keeping in mind that CPAP Liquidators offers Live Operator Support 24/7 if you have any questions!

Question: How Can I Avoid This Awful Nasal Congestion & Dry Throat I’m Experiencing?

Answer: This one isn’t as wishy-washy as our previous answers, we promise! If you’ve got nasal congestion issues, it’s probably because your CPAP machine is drying your sinuses out during the night. To remedy this, you’ll need a humidifier.

When you use a CPAP machine, there is a greater airflow passing through your respiratory system than your body is accustomed to. While the body is able to naturally humidify the air you breathe while you aren’t using a machine, the extra airflow is sometimes too much to handle; a dry throat and stuffy nose is the result.

CPAP humidifiers, along with heated tubes, will humidify and heat the air to make it more easy for your body to breathe in and use. This will help you feel vastly more comfortable!

Keep in mind that there are alternative solutions to this issue, among which are switching to a full-face mask, utilizing chinstraps to consolidate airflow, or even talking to your doctor about using a nasal decongestant if the symptoms are moderate to severe. Of course, we recommend speaking with your doctor about all of these decisions to make sure you are ideally equipped.

Question: What Can I Do If I Can’t Fall Asleep While Using My CPAP Unit?

Answer: This is not an uncommon problem, if that provides any degree of solace. Before you decide that the CPAP life is just not for you and your case is hopeless, we’d recommend double-checking that all of your doctor-recommended device settings are set up properly. Modern devices aren’t always the easiest to use for first-time owners, so it’s worth getting a second set of eyes on the unit if you have any doubt about the settings you are using.

That being said, many people elect to utilize the “ramp” feature on their device, assuming their model has that option. This setting gradually increases the air pressure in your device so you aren’t overwhelmed by the change. Additionally, it might be a good idea to look into an APAP device, which provides automatic positive airway pressure. Some people have pressure needs that change throughout the course of the night, and this kind of PAP machine is an ideal solution.

Our last piece of advice on the matter is that you give yourself a little bit of time to get used to wearing the device. It might not ever feel “amazing,” but we expect you’ll acclimate if you give yourself a chance.

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So concludes our blog dedicated to answering those questions that are frequently asked. We hope that you’ve found it interesting and beneficial! If there are any questions you haven’t been able to find answers to, don’t hesitate to reach out to us to speak with a representative. We’d love to hear from you and help you out as best we can. Shop CPAP Liquidators today!