How do humidifiers improve your CPAP experience?

Having sleep apnea can really take a toll on a person's daily life. Untreated sleep apnea prevents the sleep cycle from being regular because of the lack of breathing causing lethargy, fatigue and mood problems. CPAP machines are there to help. The problem is that they can dry out the throat causing further sleep discomfort. This is why the humidifier has become an important part of the machine.

 

Humidifiers will keep your throat moist for breathing comfort. It will discontinue soreness and drying in the mouth, nose and throat to help provide uninterrupted sleep. This will drastically improve your sleep cycle and allow you to feel more alert during the day. It can also help to improve your mood for a more regulated and productive day.

 

The way CPAP machines work is that they open the airway by sending air pressure into your nasal and mouth passage to keep the throat open. This keeps steady breathing helping achieve uninterrupted sleep. You can receive continuous positive airway pressure with moisture if you have a machine equipped with a humidifier.

 

Of course, if the mask is the wrong size or style it may not work the same as a secure one that is fit to the shape of the particular facial structure. Your doctor can help you find the right size for your face without you having to buy and try on many different styles.  If your mask is leaking it can dry out your nose too.

 

Also, it may help to accompany the humidifier with nasal spray at bed time. This will clear your stuffiness and allow your humidifier to do its job. 

 

The humidifier attaches to the air pressure machine. Usually, with heated humidifiers you can adjust the temperature of the air and with a CPAP machine you can adjust the pressure of the air. Of course that will help with the effectiveness because of comfort. It will feel warm and moist which will simulate normal breath counteracting the forced air.

 

This is perfect for night time, but humidifiers are not only for when you are sleeping. You can use it if you are using a CPAP machine during the day as well due to breathing complications. It is advised not to use the machine if it is not needed. Excessive moisture can lead to pneumonia if not used properly. Consulting with a doctor is a good idea before using a CPAP machine and humidifier.

CPAP Machines

 

Respironics CPAP

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Gives input and advice on CPAP supplies.