3 Must-Have CPAP Accessories
A CPAP machine is an effective treatment option for those diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. The letters in CPAP stand for continuous positive airway pressure. The machine creates a positive flow of mild air pressure that keeps the airway open during sleep. This air pressure comes from the machine, and with the help of special tubing and a mask, the air is administered directly into the nose or mouth. Along with these CPAP supplies, there are many different accessories that makes it more convenient to use a CPAP machine.
Here are three must-have CPAP accessories.
1. CPAP Travel Bag
Once you start using your CPAP machine to sleep at night, you'll never want to be without it. If you travel a lot, you should purchase a special bag or case for your CPAP machine. Not only does a travel bag provide a way to take your CPAP machine with you wherever you go, but it also provides protection for your machine and CPAP supplies.
Travel bags for CPAP machines come in all different colors, sizes, and styles. If you fly a lot, you may want to choose one that meets Federal Aviation Administrations (FAA) carry-on limits. Some CPAP travel bags have a place to store your laptop computer and some come with wheels so they are easier to transport.
2. CPAP Cleaning Supplies
To ensure that you are breathing in clean air when you wear your CPAP machine, you will need to clean it on a regular basis. Clean CPAP supplies will also help ensure that there is a proper seal between the CPAP mask and your face. When airflow leaks out of the mask, it decreases the machine's ability to keep your airway open as you sleep.
Besides cleaning the mask cushion, you will want to make sure the distilled water in the humidifier is always fresh and clean. Some of the CPAP cleaning supplies you will want to purchase include mask wipes, mask and hose soap, disinfectant cleaning solution, and extra bottles of distilled water.
3. Mask Liners and Hose Covers
If you have sensitive skin, there are a variety of CPAP accessories that will help protect it, as well as make wearing your mask more comfortable. The more comfortable you feel, the better you will sleep. Mask liners not only make wearing a mask more comfortable at night, but they can also reduce the chance of a broken seal.
You may also opt to buy mask pad covers that offer extra padding between the mask strap and your face. Hose covers are another CPAP accessory that adds comfort and prevents hoses from becoming tangled.
Contact a company that sells CPAP supplies to learn more.