Place the mask on your face with the straps relatively loose. As stated before, tap water is the worst kind of water you can use, as it leaves a chalky film behind. The outtake, is essentially the same as output. This way, youâll slowly grow used to wearing it. Before turning it on, place your machine on a flat, stable surface near your bed, giving the vents at least 12 inches of space from walls, bedding, or curtains. Read our Best CPAP Masks of 2020, where we review and compare the best, most popular masks in detail. Hi Alexis, I am very sorry for my slow response. It may take time to adjust, but the long-term benefits of CPAP therapy are well worth the few nights of discomfort as you adjust. So when you go to your DME to try one on, put as much effort in mask … To use a humidifier, simply fill up the water chamber to the line (the water chamber should have a line imprinted in the plastic, telling you where to stop) with distilled water. Iâm operating on the assumption that it is. CPAP devices and masks are one of the most effective ways to conquer sleep apnea and other associated sleep disorders. These specialized pillows are designed with special cutouts in them– creating space for the extra bulk of a mask. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a BiPAP machine instead of a CPAP or APAP machine. By using our site, you agree to our. Not all machines have the “ramp” feature, so if you think it’s a feature that would be important to you, look for it in a machine’s description. The best place to start is with your doctor. Letâs start with attaching your hose to the air outlet of either your CPAP machine or humidifier, depending on your course of treatment. By signing up you give CPAP.com permission to send marketing emails to your email address. If you can, consider side sleeping. If you are normally a back or stomach sleeper, you may want to consider a special pillow to help you adjust to side sleeping. Pro Tip: Using a humidifier makes it easier to stick with your therapy. For anyone who’s tried to do anything productive before bed with a bulky mask, you know how difficult it can be. While the air is blowing, pull the mask 1-2 inches from your face to give the outer cushion layer time to inflate. If youâre not using a humidifier, the bacteria filter is placed directly at the air outtake of your CPAP machine. Reusable foam filters are placed at the air intake of your CPAP machine. The CPAP Shop asked our resident respiratory therapist, Jose Acosta, CRT, how to match the best CPAP machine and mask with your sleeping position. This article has been viewed 12,874 times. It may take weeks or months for you to feel ânormalâ with your mask on. Unwashed faces have a thin layer of human oils that make it difficult to get a great seal with the CPAP mask. So now that you’ve ordered your first CPAP machine, it’s time to learn how to use it! First things first, establish what kind of CPAP filters you have. Pro Tip: Consider Getting a CPAP Pillow Some types of CPAP masks have a lot of bulk towards the front of the face, making it difficult to sleep in a favorite sleeping position. Carlotta Butler is a Registered Nurse in Arizona. You may unsubscribe at any time. A minority of CPAP users sleep on their stomach or back â positions that are potentially dangerous or undermine the effectiveness of CPAP treatment. Nasal pillows (plastic inserts that fit inside the nostrils) 2. Find your perfect CPAP mask from the #1 rated mask brand by CPAP users. To do this, start by sitting on the edge of your bed. When you donât use your CPAP machine, youâre only hurting yourself! Pro Tip: Cleaning your humidifier can be easy or difficult depending on what kind of water you use. Carlotta is a member of the American Medical Writers Association. If the pressure initially seems kind of high, consider trying to use the “ramp” feature on your machine. The bacteria filter can be a little trickier. How can you cope? Without the humidifier, the pressurized air can leave you feeling severely dry and parched when you wake up. This will help you get used to the feel of the mask on your face, and make you less sensitive to the feel of the straps. Nasal Drainage: Sometimes a nasal based CPAP mask can cause overactive sinuses, causing a runny nose or similar issue. How to Set Up CPAP Filters. Maybe all three? Mask styles can vary with different CPAP machines. Back sleeping is also not very safe because your tongue may wind up obstructing your airway. One of the best ways to get used to your CPAP mask is to wear it while you’re awake. So no matter your preferred mask style, there’s a mask with an open field of vision for you. First things first, establish what kind of CPAP filters you have. So when the machine arrives at your door, it will be ready to go with the correct pressure setting, and you won’t need to do this on your own. Over time, the mask gathers facial oils and deposits from your mouth or nose and will need to be cleaned and sanitized.