CPAP machines have come a long way over the years, thanks in part to new features that have helped them become more effective and comfortable than ever before.
For many new CPAP users, this increased comfort is especially significant. Some people have trouble adapting to using a CPAP machine at night, and these early struggles can discourage them from sticking with this vital therapy. Many of the newest features now available in CPAP equipment are specifically designed to address common usability issues, so everyone can more easily adapt and become compliant with their therapy.
Whether you’re feeling apprehensive about starting CPAP therapy or feel like your current setup isn’t comfortable enough for your sleep needs, choosing a unit with the following features will make a big difference.
Humidifier
The CPAP machine supplies a continual flow of pressurized air throughout the night, which can dry out your mouth and throat. Because the air is pulled from the room and delivered with the help of a fan, it tends to be cooler and dryer than the air in you room. Interestingly, the dry air can also make your nose runny or stuffy. When this happens, it can be harder to breathe, and you might take off your mask in your sleep.
A heated humidifier will directly counteract these issues by adding moisture to the air delivered by your CPAP machine. Warm, moist air will keep your airways from drying out, which in turn keeps your body from secreting mucous. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, CPAP users over the age of 60, as well as those who take multiple medications or have a chronic mucosal disease, are the most likely to need a heated humidifier.
Expiratory Relief
Breathe in, breathe out. It’s our natural cycle day and night. However, the force of pressurized air from your CPAP machine can actually make it harder to exhale comfortably while using your device.
Though CPAP machines are designed to deliver a consistent level of pressure throughout the night, many have adopted expiratory relief functions. This feature monitors your breathing patterns and slightly lowers air pressure delivery when you exhale. This way, you can breathe comfortably all night long.
Ramping
Some CPAP users find it difficult to fall asleep when their equipment is set to its prescribed setting. The flow of pressurized air feels uncomfortable and makes it difficult to fall asleep.
To counteract this, some CPAP machines start by delivering air at a lower pressure after you put your mask on. The pressure level increases gradually over time. Once you fall asleep, your CPAP machine will automatically increase to the prescribed air pressure necessary to help you avoid sleep apnea events. Your machine can actually detect when you fall asleep based on your breathing patterns, so it knows when to make this change. This way, you can comfortably fall asleep without compromising the quality of your CPAP therapy.
Auto Start/Stop
Sometimes, it’s just nice to have certain parts of our life automated — and that can even apply to CPAP therapy. Many devices are now equipped with auto start/stop functionality. When you put on your mask and breathe into it, your CPAP machine will start running automatically. It will also stop within seconds after you take off your mask.
After the initial setup for your CPAP machine and any other features you want to activate, this streamlined approach allows you to get right to bed each night. This feature can be especially helpful for those who may wake up during the night to use the bathroom. No need for middle of the night button pushes!
Tracking
You know that CPAP therapy is supposed to help you improve sleep quality and counteract sleep apnea. But how can you have confidence that this is actually the case? Today’s CPAP machines don’t just record information to send to your doctor. They can also connect with apps on your smartphone or computer to help you track your progress.
CPAP connectivity apps track a wide variety of metrics, such as how many hours you slept, how many sleep interruptions you experienced, and even whether you kept your mask on the whole night or not. This can help you and your medical provider identify potential issues with your therapy — such as if you are unconsciously taking off your mask in your sleep during the night. By helping you remain compliant with your therapy and understand your progress, these tracker apps will improve the overall quality of your care.
Make the Most of Your Therapy With a New CPAP Machine
Beginning CPAP therapy can seem like a major transition — but it doesn’t have to be. When you select a CPAP machine with these comfort-enhancing features, you will have a much easier time adapting to your new normal. And once you begin enjoying higher-quality, uninterrupted sleep, you will wonder how you ever got by without your CPAP machine.
Here at No Insurance Medical Supplies, we know that getting this equipment can sometimes be a challenge, particularly if you don’t have health insurance to cover your costs. That’s why we offer significant discounts on leading CPAP brands like Fisher & Paykel, ResMed, and Philips Respironics. Financing is also available to break your purchase into more affordable monthly payments.
Better sleep is closer than you might think — and you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort to get it. If you’d like to learn more about any of our products, feel free to contact our team today.