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What Should I Have Before Placing An Order For Medical Equipment Online/In Person

When purchasing items through medical suppliers online, there are a few things you should be preparing. In order to make your transaction and overall experience a smooth one, it is good to get these few unexpected items ready and be prepared with the following questions and answers to our own.Prescriptions<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/med.jpg" style="width: 398px;">Depending on the product, you are required to have a prescription from your doctor in order to receive medical equipment. If it is a rental, the same methods are necessary to be deemed a good fit to rent with (since some suppliers have the right to deny you service). Be sure to call your doctor and have your prescription information ready because you must supply exact information in order to be considered. Doctor's Recommendations<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/doc.jpg" style="width: 395px;">Looking to get a specific machine but unsure if it is the right product for you? While we can deliver and answer any of your questions online or over the phone, it is better to consult your doctor directly and ask what their recommendations for your condition might be. Be sure to tell us the recommendations so we can also provide more accurate medical equipment for your medical needs. System Settings<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/system.jpg" style="width: 396px;">When sending out rentals, we require information about your test results, breathing conditions and other requirements in order to properly adjust the equipment settings to your needs. We always have recommendations and show our customers how to adjust the settings properly. However, to make it more tailored to your needs, it is better to have professionally trained associates handle it for you and provide a quality product.Finance Plan or Another Acceptable Form of Payment<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-09-at-2.10.43-pm.png" style="width: 405px;">Are you looking to buy but do not have all the money for a specific product yet? Not a problem! You can easily apply for many of our medical loan and care providers in order to initiate monthly financing or repayment systems. Just go to the finance section on our homepage and apply from there. For example, you can click on CareCredit and be signed up in minutes and ready to buy your new product within the hour! Now that's service!Ask Questions<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/doctor.jpg" style="width: 401px;">Lastly, before buying anything, be sure to have all your questions prepared and ready to ask our highly trained staff to assist you. Whether it is about prescriptions, medical equipment preferences, rental agreements and how to apply for monthly financing, we will gladly assist you and provide 5-star service!Now that you can confidently shop online with this guide, what are you waiting for? It is time to purchase your first piece of medical equipment with us!
Things To Know When Traveling With Your CPAP Equipment

We all love to travel! Whether it is for personal reasons, family vacations or as a business trip, we need to be prepared. Before you go; pack your toothbrush, your CPAP and take a moment to read this article! You will be grateful that you chose to be safe than sorry each and every time.What Should I Prepare?<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/think.jpg" style="width: 237px;">There are a lot of things to prepare but these simple procedures might cross our minds. Packing our CPAP machines are a big necessity and it is important to clean the machine the night before so you can travel with a clean machine and not worry about cleanings along the way. Be sure you pack extra filters, tubes and your mask.Another important thing to carry is either your bedside organizer or a separate bag/case for your medical equipment so you don't crush or damage your expensive products. Make sure you pack it in a place that is both easily accessible for you and medical staff.Call your doctor; make sure your prescriptions are travel safe, that traveling is safe for you and that you have all your medical info on hand if needed. Helpful Airline Policies & Regulations<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/travel.jpg" style="width: 374px;">While many airlines are open and courteous of CPAP users, you should definitely call your airline service and see what their standards and regulations are. CPAP machines are usually considered a "free carry-on bag" since it is medical equipment. Certain airlines may have restrictions based on sizes or due to technical issues, but services such as JetBlue and AmericanAirlines allow you to bring it on board free of charge! If you need to contact an airline company fast, Twitter seems  to be the best outlet recently.Remember, it is very important to label everything so it is easier for anyone, such as travel service providers who need to review anything you have, to easily clear and confirm your equipment with no mix ups or delays. You can even pack items in clear bags making it easy for staff to see you are a CPAP user.Products That Make Traveling Easier<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-05-at-1.39.01-pm.png" style="width: 670px;">Fortunately with today's technology, traveling is getting easier! There are a few simple things you can bring to make the journey a whole lot easier.Travel Case - an essential item that is perfect for any CPAP user and CPAP machine. It is equipped with various pockets, compartments, and seals tightly which secures products in place. Some cases are more durable than others and are even waterproof!Battery Pack - Keep the fresh air coming with a long lasting, rechargeable battery pack! Whether you are camping, flying or at sea, these battery packs are compact, easy to carry and will keep you worry free as they power all of your medical equipment all day long!What Else Can I Prepare?<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/thought.jpg" style="width: 389px;">If you think you are all done, think again! Here are some smaller, minor details you can tackle down and make sure your trip is perfect! Calling the hotel to make sure they provide enough outlets by the bed is a must, especially if you're packing a lot of equipment.Check where the nearby/local hospitals are in case of an emergency. It is important to have their information on hand just in case. Don't forget to always "think portable!" Everything is travel-ready nowadays, so it is better to bring equipment such as portable nebulizers and battery packs so you don't need to make any rush trips back to the hotel or nearest hospital. Now that you are feeling more prepared, are you ready to travel? Let us know about some other amazing travel tips you might via Facebook or Twitter so we can share this great advice with our followers and the rest of the CPAP community!
Children's Products That Make Using Medical Supplies Fun

Adults aren't the only ones prone to sleeping and breathing problems! With more and more growing cases in the medical field appearing, it seems children are becoming prone to having certain breathing problems and ailments at an early age. Fortunately, doctors and medical suppliers like ourselves know children may have fears or it isn't easy for them to adjust to the equipment for their new condition. Things will get easier if you check out and perhaps purchase some of these useful and lovely products! View some of the products below;   NebulizersFor kids who have problems with asthma or any difficulty breathing due to allergies or excessive exercising, a nebulizer is a must have product. Stronger than an inhaler, a nebulizer provides medication conveniently and at a stronger dosage with a controlled air flow which helps the medicine enter the body properly. While it is an easy machine to use, some children just do not enjoy using them. However, our cute and quirky products make it much easier and actually fun when using medicine. We also recommend using a portable one  in case of emergencies. Dexter The Dragon<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-04-at-3.19.27-pm.png">Beetle Bug<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-04-at-3.20.47-pm.png" style="width: 432px;">Penguin Nebulizer<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-04-at-3.21.09-pm.png" style="width: 412px;">MasksJust like the nebulizer, masks are just as important! Kids can enjoy their time for medicine with ease when they get to use these cute, new products. Each mask has a silly, whacky character that makes wearing a mask more fun instead of embarrassing! Sometimes kids love pretending to be  animals such much that you won't find them taking it off any time soon.Sami the Seal<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-04-at-3.20.11-pm.png" style="width: 411px;">Tucker The Turtle<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-04-at-3.20.25-pm.png" style="width: 402px;">Bubbles The Fish<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-04-04-at-3.27.18-pm.png">Now that you got a glimpse of the cutest toys- er medical equipment on the market, what do you think? Surprise your little one this year and make them happy for their next nebulizer/mask use!
Hilarious Stories From Real CPAP Users We Can All Relate To

Surprise, surprise! The CPAP community has spoken - on Twitter! The online platform has become a hilarious outlet for CPAP users who have comical commentary and interesting stories regarding their every day lives while using CPAP machines. Take a look through some of the laughable commentary down below!1. "Laying here with this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sleep?src=hash" style="background-color: initial; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana, Tahoma, sans-serif;">#sleep</a> apnea mask on. 3rd night using. 3rd night without sleep. How long did it take you to feel like you weren’t suffocating?" - BrianSleeping with a CPAP is never easy, but you can always read our articles and follow our tips for a good night's sleep!!<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/sneeze.jpg" style="width: 169px;">2. "Sneezing inside a CPAP mask is probably the worst." - NicolasI don't think the dishwasher can remove all those boogers!3. "Day 2 of using the CPAP. Am waking up earlier than usual but not feeling tired. Is this how it is supposed to be all this while?" - JeremyYes, Jeremy, That is the miracle of using a CPAP! That is how you're supposed to feel.4. "The hum of my CPAP machine rocks me to sleep." - StevenUsually a quiet model is recommended because the sound drives people crazy! Guess Steven really loves his CPAP more than most!5- "My cat has learned how to turn off my CPAP in order to wake me up so I will feed him. He is an adorable monster." - MonicaHopefully this cat doesn't have murder on his mind!<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/cat.jpg" style="width: 355px;">6- "Me, in bed, wearing my CPAP trying to do <a href="https://twitter.com/blogilates">blogilates</a> bedtime stretches must really be a sight." - DanielleIf this video were posted on YouTube, we believe it would immediately go viral!7. "Gave up after two weeks. The cool part was the water came thru the hose and almost drowned me. It was great." - RockyNow you're really swimming with the fishes!8. "Rue (my cat)  turned off my CPAP 6 times last night. Murder is afoot! With a very cute fluffy face." - JedEither cats are jealous of their owner's CPAP machines or they really are cold-blooded, cute, fluffy killers!<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/darth.jpg" style="width: 368px;">9. "Boys has been crawling into bed at random night hours for snuggles if late. I don’t mind but he does tend to gently touch my CPAP mask. Wife just described this as “I love you Darth Mama” and now I’m dying from laughter." - Clomday*Imitates deep breathing noises*10. "My CPAP has heightened my sense of smell. You don't want this on NYC mass transit." - BunchNo one likes the smells of NYC - especially in Port Authority Bus Terminal. Yuck!Which CPAP story had you laughing the most? Share you thoughts and stories with us on Twitter and Facebook!
What Happens When You Don't Clean Your CPAP Filter and Machine Properly?

Whether you are new to owning and using a CPAP machine, or have been an adamant user of CPAP products for years, it is always good to catch up and refresh your memory on the latest cleaning techniques and supplies available to you. It appears many people forget the importance of cleaning and changing the filters of their CPAP machine. Luckily, we are here to help and discuss just what can happen if you slack on hygiene. <img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/clean2.jpg">(source: comprehensivesleepcare.com) Many users have often reported that bacteria and mold has almost immediately built up in their CPAPs filters, tubes, humidifier and water tanks/chambers when they weren't properly cleaned. On a popular CPAP community board, one user posted, "I started having respiratory problems: coughing, 'cold' symptoms, feeling sick, and it dawned on me that perhaps my symptoms were related to not cleaning the water chamber. I opened the water chamber, and I was shocked to find green slime coating the interior of the water chamber. Gross!" - Talk about an eye-opening experience!If you begin experiencing any of the following symptoms, a dirty CPAP machine could be the culprit;<ul> <li>Congestion</li><li>Runny nose</li><li>Sneezing</li><li>Sore throat</li><li>Skin irritation</li><li>Airway/lung irritation</li><li>Respiratory infection</li></ul>These moist areas are highly prone to sprouting mold, mildew and other deadly bacteria. Unfortunately, it is a breeding ground for infectious debris. So, the real concern is, how can I clean my CPAP filters and tubes??!<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-20-at-3.44.02-pm.png">(source: sleepclinic) The fastest and most reliable method to clean your CPAP equipment is to simply replace them every month (30 days) of use. For some brands and washable filters, the lifespan can go as far as 3 months (90 days). However, we highly recommend changing any of the disposable equipment if discoloration, stubborn debris or bacteria build up occurs. When washing your equipment, it is good to use a brush that has fine bristles and a long shaft that can get hard-to-reach places with ease while removing debris. You can also clean your items by soaking them in luke-warm water with a non-toxic antibacterial soap. Don't boil any tubing as it may damage the product.Another fine method is to also purchase bundle packs with multiple filters, separate filter packs for emergencies, or even buy a disinfecting station such as the Lumin. These machines are guaranteed to remove over 99.9% of bacteria from any equipment from as little as 5 minutes to a few hours (depending on the equipment). <img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-20-at-3.59.40-pm.png">
7 Moments A CPAP Battery Would've Been Useful

Here we go again - another moment where you are out and about with your amazing portable CPAP and the battery just runs dry. There are an endless amount of scenarios were that extra battery would have been a God-end. Get a good laugh over 7 times an extra battery would have made all the difference.1. When you're out camping<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/camp.jpg" style="width: 407px;">Camping trips are supposed to be fun despite all the bugs, nature and dirt. If you rely on a CPAP machine, you better be sure to bring an endless supply of portable batteries. Depending on your level of extreme camping, there are no outlets in the  wilderness. Get smart, play safe and bring along at least 3 batteries for any trip under 3 days.2. On a long train ride<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/train.jpg" style="width: 411px;">Long train rides can always be a hassle and having your battery die is one of the last things you want to happen. Some trips can be as long as 5 hours and if there are delays the wait can get worse. If you need to use your CPAP in any emergency when traveling, a battery will always be a real life saver. 3. Visiting a hotel<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/hotel.jpg" style="width: 414px;">You planned the perfect trip and finally arrived to your hotel for the utmost comfort possible, but they might not be ready for your CPAP. What if all the outlets by the bed are being used? What if there is an incident where the hotel losers power or accidentally damage your power cord when cleaning? Anything can happen, so it is good to carry a back up even when you think you are traveling with ease.4. During a power outage<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-29-at-1.36.00-pm.png" style="width: 410px;">Just as I mentioned before, power outages are one of the biggest enemies of anyone using a CPAP machine. When you least expect it, electricity can go out and you're left stuck sacrificing your health and good night's sleep. Some places won't always have a backup generator and you'll be the coolest guy around if your portable battery is doing its job that day.5. Enjoying a cruise<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/cruise.jpg" style="width: 407px;">You're on a giant boat in the middle of the ocean, you need electricity! While most boats are accommodating, depending no your cabin, there might not be any bedside outlets or enough of them. Just as anything bad can happen on land, bad things can happen at sea and it is always better to be safe than sorry.6. Flying on a plane<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/plan.jpg" style="width: 407px;">You shouldn't be scared to go traveling just because you use a CPAP machine. You definitely will not be if you invest in a portable battery, too. Give your self the peace of mind knowing you can access your machine at any given moment without the need of extra cords and relying on a power outlet.7. On a business trip<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/business.jpg" style="width: 405px;">You never know where your company might send you and, depending on the accommodations, this place might not be CPAP ready or friendly. Keep yourself ahead of the game with a portable bag and battery kit. You'll thank yourself later knowing you came prepared and ready to dominate that business meeting after a good night's rest! Now that you realized no CPAP user should go without a portable battery pack, what are you waiting for? <a href="https://www.noinsurancemedicalsupplies.com/search.php?search_query=battery&section=product">Check out our variety of packs, bundles and kits </a>that are meant to make travel (and breathing) easy peasey!
How Can I Rent Medical Products Quickly & Easily Online?

Shopping online isn't always easy. With everything being sold online nowadays, consumers need to adapt to these new methods. But what should you look for and what steps do you need to take to ensure you're renting or buying everything properly? While buying is an easy one-click process, renting is a whole other monster! Check out how you can rent safely and happily with us by using these 5 tips below.5. Read The Terms & Conditions Thoroughly<img src="https://helpmedicalsupplies.com/product_images/uploaded_images/read.jpg" style="width: 384px;">Like any establishment in the business of renting, there are some rules and policies to follow. When agreeing to rent any equipment, be sure to read these things thoroughly. It will help you realize what the company is expecting of you, wants from you and what warranties they have in place to protect you, your purchase and the equipment overall.4. Avoid Misusing Products<img src="https://helpmedicalsupplies.com/product_images/uploaded_images/wheelchair.jpg" style="width: 388px;">Do not even think of using a rented product for any other purpose other than what it is rented/designated for. Your oxygen tanks aren't for filling balloons, and your new wheelchair isn't a race car. If you get crutches, do not lend them to friends. If you get a motor scooter, don't think it would be funny to see your kid or grandchildren riding around in it. Once damage is done, you are liable so try to prevent a simple problem by using items properly.3. Don't Loan Your Rental - EVER<img src="https://helpmedicalsupplies.com/product_images/uploaded_images/crutches-538883-960-720.jpg" style="width: 355px;">Just like we stated above, do not provide any of your friends or family members a chance to try/test out your equipment. Even if you finished using the product earlier than your anticipated rental period, do not think it would be a nice gesture to let your neighbors, friends or other relatives use the machine before they return it. They definitely won't return the nice gesture of paying for any unwanted fees. Renters and interested buyers can usually come to a location and see the products on-hand for themselves before committing to renting.2. Treat It Like It Is Your Own<img src="https://helpmedicalsupplies.com/product_images/uploaded_images/clean.jpg" style="width: 398px;">Ever receive a rental and notice a few scratches, obvious wear and tear alongside some bumps and bruises? That is all due to the carelessness of the previous user. You wouldn't scratch your friends CD or spill coffee on that jacket you borrowed, would you? Don't be that person. Remember to handle things you rent with care and return it in the same condition as you received it. This guarantees that the item will be in great working condition for the next customer and again for when you need it in the future!1. Inspect The Rental Twice<img src="https://helpmedicalsupplies.com/product_images/uploaded_images/grandma.jpg" style="width: 393px;">The number one tip for anyone renting an item is to always inspect the item - TWICE! Upon receiving the rental, look it up and down. Go through the item, what it comes with and compare it to its online description. After that, test each function to make sure it is working properly before you start using it. Be sure to also take pictures of how you received it if something seems wrong or suspicious. Lastly, before sending it back, look over the equipment one last time!Compare it to the photos you had taken when you received it - does it still look the same? Take the time to clean it or wipe it down of any debris, gather all equipment and parts into one place, and be sure it functions properly. If the item starts to experience some problems, never try to open it, take it apart or fix it yourself. Contact the rental company and provide the previous photos and notes you took when you first purchased the product in order to work out a comfortable option.It is easier and more comfortable for anyone to rent items now that they know these useful tips, right? Be sure to always call a company before renting for any other information and policies they can provide for you in order to ensure you have the best renting experience possible and can find a reliable establishment to do business with. Happy Renting!
Top 5 Biggest Problems CPAP Users Have

New to the world of sleep apnea and using a CPAP machine? If you have already started your therapy, then you will realize there are a few problems and moments of unavoidable discomfort. Who can relate? Other CPAP users! We gathered some of the most common problems users discussed and some helpful solutions as well. Check out the 5 biggest problems you will definitely encounter with CPAP.5.  Claustrophobic<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/claustrophobia.jpg" style="width: 356px;">Wearing a mask and an assortment of headgear to bed is nothing easy to get used to. Users often state they experienced bouts of overwhelming feelings during their first few weeks of therapy. Although the mask is supposed to help your breathing and feel liberating, it seems it can create an unwanted sensation of being trapped. Try using your CPAP throughout the day or during hour-long naps in order to develop a comfort to your new sleeping arrangement.4. Forced Air Pressure<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/breathe.jpg" style="width: 357px;">It is no surprise that anyone using a CPAP mask will feel bothered by the consistently forced pressure of air coming through the tubing directly into your airway. The forced air might create the sensation of trying to breathe while facing a fan - and when is that ever fun? Just like getting used to the equipment, you need to get used to the pressurized air by using a "ramp" feature, <a href="https://www.noinsurancemedicalsupplies.com/dreamstation-heated-tubing/">heated humidifiers </a>and starting with a slower air flow and lowered pressure.3. Noisy Machines<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/noise.jpg" style="width: 378px;">(source: xochu.com)While newer models have been reinvented to be less noisy, there are some machines  that still make a little fuss while operating. How are we supposed to sleep  when the machine which should be aiding us is keeping us wide awake? Models like the <a href="https://www.noinsurancemedicalsupplies.com/dreamclean-600-dreamstation-bipap-dsx600t11-w-carrying-case-dreamwear-mask-soclean-2-2-addl-tubes-6-extra-filters-and-bedside-organizer/">DreamStation</a> offer the silent treatment we have always wanted  and  we highly recommended.  A perfect's night sleep isn't just a dream after all.2. Skin Irritation<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/mouth-2361675-960-720.jpg" style="width: 482px;">Unfortunately, wearing a mask so often can create a great deal of irritation to your skin. Users with sensitive skin reported that the masks frequently rubbing against them during their sleep or when putting it on and off created some minor redness or dryness to occur. The solution is quite simple: you can  use any lotions or creams to ease the pain but their are official and <a href="https://www.noinsurancemedicalsupplies.com/bare-40-plus-hyaluronic-acid-moisturizing-urea-gel/">medicated gels</a> which prevent any possibility of skin issues when using your CPAP.1. Removing Your Mask<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-26-at-2.25.43-pm.png">The number one problem CPAP users complain about the most? Removing the masks in their sleep! Whether you are tossing or turning or unconsciously pull it off your face, it makes it harder to  stick to your CPAP therapy. There are lots of reasons as to why we remove the mask, with most reporting it being nasal congestion. However, you can purchase a mask with more <a href="https://www.noinsurancemedicalsupplies.com/premium-chin-strap/">supportive gear or a chin strap</a> in order to prevent this problem. Some CPAP users even set an alarm at night to wake up and check if the machine is still on and functioning properly. Now that you know users biggest complaints, which problem is ailing you? If you haven't encountered any of these problems yet, count yourself lucky and share this article with some CPAP users you know who might need some CPAP saving!
5 Easy Ways You Can Get That Good Night's Rest

The perfects night's sleep isn't something impossible just because you have to rely on a CPAP machine. Although it may seem uncomfortable or embarrassing at first, CPAP machines provide  the brilliant service of a sound and safe rest - whether you're napping or going for a full 8 hours! However, there are still 5 other beneficial methods you can still utilize to ensure a great night's rest.1. Daily Exercise<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-22-at-3.46.27-pm.png" style="width: 372px;">It might be obvious, but exercise is an appropriate method to induce fatigue and lull your body into a resting phase. It is known that many users of CPAP machines are also overweight, so a routined exercise regimen can be highly rewarding in correcting sleep apnea symptoms and enforcing a better change in your sleeping cycles.2. Meditation<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-22-at-3.48.09-pm.png" style="width: 372px;">Just as important as exercising, meditation is another valuable practice that can help aid your sleeping habits. Meditating can help balance your mind, breathing, heart rate and blood circulation - all crucial actors that are related to sleep apnea. It is believed that laying still in bed for more than 12 minutes can create a sleep induced state, shutting the body functions down to a slower pace and allowing you to transition into sleep more effortlessly. Try meditating while using your CPAP and see how much more conscious you will be of your breathing patterns. Don't forget to turn on your humidifier while meditating! 3. Changing Your Face Mask<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/mask.jpg" style="width: 293px;">The face masks CPAP users need is dire in creating the most perfect and comforting experience. Yet, some do not adjust their masks properly or often! Be sure the size is snug enough to not slide off but also not constricting your head. Be sure to also change your mask regularly if you're not taking care of it hygienically. A new, fresh mask is as good as a set of new fresh sheets.4. Watch What You Eat!<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-22-at-3.50.58-pm.png" style="width: 436px;">Food is another necessity in this world that we simply an't get enough of, but have you realized what your eating even effects your breathing and sleeping behaviors? Acid reflux problems can lead to congestion, cough and other respiratory problems. Everything you intake can quite possibly cause harm to your body, especially if you choose the wrong things such as smoking, drugs and alcohol. If you're using a CPAP machine, avoid a majority of these things altogether. 5. Change Your Environment<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/screen-shot-2018-03-22-at-3.53.05-pm.png" style="width: 432px;">Have you ever taken the time to look around and analyze your environment? Is it rather dry and making it harder to breathe or is it too moist and damp? Maybe you're surrounded by a ton of pets (which causes dandruff) or work in a rather dusty office. Whatever the case may be, these are all harmful to your breathing! It may feel strange at first, but it is definitely useful and recommended to wear a face mask and help filter out unnecessary debris and harmful particles you do not want to be breathing in to begin with. This also helps you avoid catching (or spreading) viruses among others as well. Be sure to clean your sleeping area regularly and investing in an air quality machine is a major first step in the right direction for fixing your environment in the long run.Now that you know these fundamental 5 tips, which one are you going to try first? Let us know how these changes might have already effected your life and share with other CPAP users your unique experiences.Disclaimer: Please note that none of these methods, suggestions or tips are meant to replace or discourage you from using CPAP machinery and equipment. We highly encourage you to take a sleep test and receive advice on the appropriate machine to purchase at our store from our trained staff. Source:Pixabay
What Everybody Needs to Know About Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a highly prevalent condition within the United States and abroad. The most common type of sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is estimated to afflict at least 25 million American adults! Even worse yet, this condition is becoming more pervasive as more Americans struggle with being overweight or obese which is one of the primary causes of OSA.Unfortunately it is estimated that 80% of these Americans remain undiagnosed. This is a serious issue as there are some serious health implications when sleep apnea remains untreated including major cardiovascular risks, weight gain, sleep deprivation, and more.For this reason, it is important for everyone to know some of the most common direct/indirect symptoms of sleep apnea, what to do if you think you or a loved one might have sleep apnea, and the various treatment options available including the use of a CPAP machine or other positive airway pressure device.<img src="/product_images/uploaded_images/best-cpap-machine-2016-guest-post.jpg" alt="Best CPAP Machine 2016 and Sleep Apnea Info"><h2>Most Common Direct Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea</h2><ol> <li>Loud and Chronic Snoring: This is a potential symptom of OSA but not all people with sleep apnea snore and not all people that snore have sleep apnea.</li><li>Intermittent Pauses of Snoring: A more telltale sign of sleep apnea is snoring with intermittent pauses during sleep which is an indicator that the person has actually stopped breathing. This is commonly followed up with the person stirring awake and possibly even gasping or choking for air. The individual with sleep apnea may not even realize they were awakened and may return to sleep unaware they experienced an apnea.</li></ol><h2>4 Indirect Symptoms of Sleep Apnea</h2><ol> <li>Headaches: This is due to lack of oxygen to the brain.</li><li>High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): This is due to the restriction of blood vessels which is the bodies reaction to oxygen deprivation.</li><li>Awakening with Dry Mouth or Sore Throat</li><li>Excessive Tiredness / effects of sleep deprivation: This is the most detrimental of the symptoms. This significantly impacts your quality of life including your performance at work, relationships, and general well-being. Sleep deprivation impairs your cognitive & learning abilities, cause serious heart problems, leads to depression & anxiety, and more.</li></ol><h2>What you should do if you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms</h2>I would highly recommend you have you or your loved one go to a sleep specialist physician at a sleep clinic to have a sleep study performed. In some cases these sleep studies can be performed at home, but the gold standard of sleep tests are performed on site at a sleep lab known as a Polysomnogram (PSG). During the sleep study, they collect a vast amount of data including brain activity, heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, breathing patterns, and more. This will allow them to determine if your or your loved one has sleep apnea or possibly some other disorder.<h2>Is there a cure for sleep apnea?</h2>There is no absolute cure for sleep apnea but there is a variety of treatment options:<h3>Postitive Airway Pressure Device (e.g. CPAP Machine)</h3>PAP is the most common form of treatment for sleep apnea. There are a variety of types of PAPs including Continuous Positive Airway Pressure devices or otherwise referred to as a CPAP machine. You wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose or possibly just your nose in which pressurized air is injected into your airway to create a virtual splint that will keep your airway from collapsing. This treatment is the most popular as it is virtually 100% effective for all levels of sleep apnea severity. It is important to get the <a href="http://www.snoringabc.com/best-cpap-machines/">best cpap machine 2016</a> or the <a href="http://www.snoringabc.com/best-bipap-machines/">best bipap machine</a> and <a href="http://www.snoringabc.com/best-cpap-mask/">best cpap mask</a> for you as this will ensure you receive the most effective treatment. Many people have air leaking issues or discomfort with their mask as they sleep on their side. If you are a side sleep it is important to find out which are the <a href="http://www.snoringabc.com/cpap-masks-for-side-sleepers/">best cpap masks for side sleepers</a>.Another very popular PAP device is a BiPAP or BiLevel CPAP. A BiPAP provides two different pressures when you sleep. A higher pressure is applied when you breathe in and a lower pressure is applied when you exhale. This can provide a more comfortable and natural breathing experience. You can check out the other differences between CPAPs and BiPAPs in this article: <a href="http://www.snoringabc.com/bipap-vs-cpap-machines/">BiPAP vs CPAP</a>.<h3>Oral Appliances</h3>The most common appliance is a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) which is a mouth guard that moves the lower jaw and tongue forward to prevent the jaw or tongue from falling back and blocking the airway. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) recommends the use of oral appliances as a first line approach, equal to PAP devices, for mild to moderate OSA.<h3>Surgery</h3>There are a variety of surgeries including nasal surgery, upper airway surgery, and jaw repositioning. Surgery is usually only considered for special circumstances or under extreme cases where the other treatments referred to above have failed. This is due to a lower efficacy rate and higher risk of medical complications.<h3>Weight Loss</h3>It should also be noted that as one of the most common causes of sleep apnea is being overweight, losing weight can in some cases significantly decrease or possibly even completely eradicate all symptoms of one’s sleep apnea.