As it turns out, obstructive sleep apnea could be a contributing factor to why you keep waking up to go to the bathroom at night. Understanding the connection between these conditions can help you get necessary care so you can enjoy higher-quality sleep.
First things first: does having untreated sleep apnea actually make you more likely to have to go to the bathroom at night? Research suggests that the answer is yes.
In fact, half of all individuals who have obstructive sleep apnea also experience nocturia, which is defined as needing to regularly get up at night to go to the bathroom. While nocturia is a relatively common condition, even among people who don’t have sleep apnea, untreated sleep apnea has been found to affect the body hormone atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), causing the body to produce more urine during sleep and increasing the likelihood of a nighttime awakening to go to the bathroom.
With sleep apnea already causing repeated sleep disruptions due to breathing interruptions, the additional visit (or visits) to the bathroom can further disrupt sleep patterns, making it difficult to go through a complete sleep cycle.
Sleep apnea also increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which can also increase the potential for nighttime urination by causing nerve damage to the urinary tract.
On the other end of the spectrum, while having an overactive bladder isn’t going to cause sleep apnea, it can make symptoms worse. The additional disruptions resulting from nightly bathroom trips will compound the effect of sleep apnea-related disruptions, leaving you feeling even more exhausted the next day.
The ongoing effects of these sleep disruptions can significantly lower your quality of life. Extreme fatigue can make you more likely to fall asleep while driving or at work, which increases the risk of getting in an accident. Poor sleep quality has been found to increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, as well as anxiety and depression. High blood pressure and heart disease can also increase the risk for nocturia!
While feeling tired after a poor night’s sleep may not seem like a big deal at first, these issues will compound over time — which makes addressing sleep apnea a top priority.
To get the highest-quality sleep possible, you should take steps to address both obstructive sleep apnea and overactive bladder. Fortunately, there are several straightforward things you can do to address these sleep-related issues.
First, there are several things you can do that can improve both sleep apnea and overactive bladder symptoms. Individuals who are overweight or obese are far more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea. Because of this, physicians typically recommend exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Keeping off the extra pounds doesn’t just improve sleep apnea symptoms, however. It can also reduce the effects of an overactive bladder.
You should also pay attention to what you drink before bed. Drinking too much of anything close to bedtime will make you more likely to need to wake up during the night to go to the bathroom. However, you should be especially mindful of avoiding beverages containing alcohol or caffeine, which can further aggravate both obstructive sleep apnea and nocturia. Alcohol, in particular, can increase the risk for obstructive sleep apnea by making the throat muscles more likely to relax and collapse during sleep.
To address nocturia, your doctor may recommend several additional lifestyle changes. Common practices include elevating your legs while sitting or wearing compression socks to help the body’s fluid distribution, doing exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, or taking afternoon naps. Diuretics or other medications may also be prescribed.
For obstructive sleep apnea, a CPAP machine will be the go-to solution. CPAP machines provide a steady flow of pressurized air to keep the airways from collapsing. Many CPAP machines also include auto start/stop features, so if you do need to wake up to go to the bathroom, your machine will automatically pause and restart when you take your mask off and put it back on. To get a prescription for a CPAP machine, you will typically need to undergo a sleep study with a sleep specialist.
By discussing your symptoms with a medical professional, you can get an accurate diagnosis and begin taking steps to keep these conditions from disrupting your sleep.
While there isn’t a “cure” for obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP machines have been found to be highly effective at preventing nighttime sleep disruptions so you can enjoy higher-quality rest. But if you don’t have good health insurance, you could find yourself paying for this expensive medical equipment out of pocket.
With Help Medical Supplies on your side, however, you can enjoy major savings on CPAP machines, masks, and more. With savings of hundreds of dollars off MSRP for select machines, free shipping on most orders of $99 or more, and available financing on purchases of $500 or more, getting this essential equipment doesn’t have to break the bank. And that’s sure to help you sleep better.
]]>A lack of understanding about sleep apnea’s symptoms and long-term impacts play a major role in why so many people have undiagnosed sleep apnea. But the risk associated with untreated sleep apnea cannot be ignored. By understanding the warning signs and using a CPAP machine as prescribed by a doctor, you can improve your sleep quality and your overall health.
Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder. It occurs when the throat becomes blocked or constricted during sleep — usually when fatty tissue surrounding the throat collapses around the airway. After the flow of air is cut off, the brain essentially forces the body to wake up so that the throat muscles can re-engage and normal breathing can resume. The person usually falls back to sleep almost immediately after the brief awakening.
Sleep apnea breathing interruptions can occur upwards of 30 times an hour for people with severe sleep apnea — but despite this, most people don’t realize that they are waking up. However, these constant interruptions prevent the body from entering “deep sleep,” which is necessary for the person to feel fully refreshed and recovered the next day.
So why don’t people realize they have sleep apnea? Aside from feeling tired the next morning, most people aren’t going to notice anything unusual about their sleep — especially since they are unlikely to remember waking up in the middle of the night. If you don’t share a room with someone who notices these nighttime awakenings and other common symptoms like snoring, making choking sounds, or gasping for breath during sleep, you won’t notice them yourself.
Long-term, sleep apnea does much more than leave you feeling tired in the morning. Extreme fatigue can leave you irritable, prone to mood swings, and make you have trouble concentrating. Individuals suffering from sleep apnea are more likely to fall asleep while driving or at work, increasing their risk for dangerous accidents.
However, sleep apnea is most problematic in how it affects your heart. Sleep apnea events place additional stress on the body, and keep the blood pressure from being able to stay at its lower, “relaxed” level that usually occurs during sleep. This increases blood pressure, while also increasing the risk for heart attack and stroke. Individuals with sleep apnea also have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes, anxiety, depression, and fatty liver disease.
As one study explains, “people with severe sleep apnea, who wake up more than 30 times per hour, are three to four times more likely to die from any cause, shaving as much as a decade off their lives. People with the moderate form, who wake up between 15 and 30 times per hour, are 72% more likely to die.”
The easiest way to identify sleep apnea is if you share your room with someone else who notices common symptoms while you are sleeping — snoring, gasping for breath, or making choking sounds. But even if you’re on your own, you can still identify some key warning signs.
Understanding common risk factors for developing obstructive sleep apnea is a helpful starting point. Generally speaking, men are more likely to have sleep apnea than women, and the risk for developing this condition increases as you get older. Certain physical features, like a large tongue or short lower jaw, can also increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea.
One of the biggest risk factors for sleep apnea is being overweight or obese, as the extra fatty tissue increases the likelihood of the throat getting closed off during sleep. Frequent nasal congestion, smoking, and drinking alcoholic beverages can also increase the risk for sleep apnea.
There are also some daytime symptoms to be aware of. People with obstructive sleep apnea often wake up with a sore throat or dry mouth. Morning headaches are also common.
Of course, the biggest clue that something is wrong is excessive fatigue. Fatigue that causes you to feel extremely sleepy during the day, or contributes to irritability, mood swings, and trouble concentrating, could be linked to a sleep disorder.
If you have known risk factors or symptoms of sleep apnea, your next step is to visit a sleep specialist. They can go over your symptoms and medical history, as well as conduct a sleep study to determine the severity of your condition.
When someone is diagnosed with sleep apnea, they are typically prescribed a CPAP machine, which will provide pressurized air via a mask. The continuous airflow keeps the airways from collapsing, allowing the user to enjoy rejuvenating, uninterrupted sleep.
While CPAP machines are very effective at keeping sleep apnea under control, they can become rather expensive if you don’t have good health insurance coverage. However, with Help Medical Supplies, you can save hundreds of dollars on top CPAP machines from leading brands like ResMed. With free shipping and available financing on select orders, you can get the medical equipment you need to reclaim quality sleep.
]]>Earlier this month, news broke that the company had agreed to a $479 million recall, but the story is far from over. By understanding where things stand with the recall — particularly what it does and does not cover — former Philips Respironics CPAP users can prepare for the next steps in what has been a long and admittedly frustrating process.
The Philips Respironics recall was issued in 2021 after it was discovered that sound abatement foam in several of the company’s devices was prone to deterioration. As the foam degraded, it could get blown into users’ airways while using their CPAP machine. The degraded foam was also linked to the emission of volatile organic compounds, including toxic carcinogens.
In addition to CPAP and ventilator products not sold in the United States, the recall affected the entire Philips Respironics DreamStation line (including DreamStation GO) devices, as well as the System One ASV4 series, System One 50 series, System One 60 series, and the Trilogy 100 and Trilogy 200 ventilators.
The FDA labeled this as a Class 1 recall — the most serious type of recall notice — due to the risk of severe harm (including death) to affected users.
Unfortunately, the recall process has been slow and frustrating. Not only have many customers gone through significant delays in getting their device repaired or replaced, but some customers actually received repaired devices with incorrect serial numbers that also had to be recalled. While Philips states that over 2.5 million CPAP devices in the U.S. had been repaired or replaced as of September 2023, over 5.5 million devices were estimated to be impacted by the recall in the United States alone.
Needless to say, news of a settlement is welcome to many.
The $479 million settlement that Philips Respironics has agreed to is meant to compensate customers for the economic losses they experienced as a result of the recall.
As Philips explained in a statement, this settlement is meant to “provide predefined cash awards to all eligible participants in the U.S. depending on the type of device, extended warranties on all replacement devices, and an additional cash award if they return the recalled device to Philips Respironics. […] The settlement will further compensate certain individuals who acquired replacement devices post-recall.”
According to reports, class action members are expected to receive compensation in amounts ranging from $50 to $1,500, with an additional $100 reward for each faulty CPAP device returned to Philips Respironics. However, these settlement payments are not expected to be issued any sooner than the first quarter of 2024 — possibly later.
Still, news of any kind of settlement should be welcome news to many whose treatment was disrupted by the recall.
A key part of understanding the settlement is knowing what it does not cover: namely all medical expenses and personal injury claims related to the recall. Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against the company regarding these claims, and in its settlement agreement, Philips did not admit to any wrongdoing that would cause it to be liable for these types of claims.
Despite this, the case doesn’t look particularly promising for Philips. The FDA has received over 105,000 reports of injuries and 385 reports of death that are believed to be linked to the foam degradation. Reported injuries include cancer, asthma, pneumonia, chest pain, dyspnea, and more. Unsurprisingly, lawyers are continuing to pursue claims in these personal injury and wrongful death cases, despite Philips claiming that its own internal risk assessments determined that exposure to the foam particles was unlikely to cause significant harm.
In fact, the company has been heavily criticized after it was discovered that concerns about the foam had been circulating at the company since 2015 — roughly six years before the recall was issued. It’s also worth noting that the company recently revealed to shareholders that it was going to lay off 10,000 employees and set aside $630 million in anticipation of lawsuit settlements.
While Philips Respironics seems determined to fight the personal injury and medical expense claims, it seems like they expect more settlements in the future. Unfortunately for consumers, it appears that more time in the courtroom will be necessary before any kind of resolution comes about.
As of this writing, the settlement agreement is still awaiting approval from a federal judge. Once approval is granted, Philips Respironics will be able to begin dispersing settlement funds to qualifying customers.
Of course, it is important to keep in mind that during various stages of the recall process, customers have complained that the company failed to notify them that they were affected by the recall, or didn’t provide information on what they needed to do. Because of this, it would be wise to take a proactive approach — don’t wait for Philips to contact you. Check for updates on the status of the settlement and reach out to them directly as soon as that information is available.
The uncertainty and extended length of the Philips Respironics recall is understandably frustrating and stressful — especially if you are among the large group waiting to receive a replacement CPAP or BiPAP device. Here at Help Medical Supplies, you can find a wide selection of quality CPAP machines available at significantly discounted prices, helping you save hundreds on this essential medical equipment so you can sleep easily.
]]>Long-term, this can result in a lot of problematic side effects that can really mess with your health.
The good news is that a CPAP machine can help. Thanks to the continuous flow of pressurized air provided by a CPAP machine, you can avoid breathing interruptions that disrupt sleep and leave you feeling exhausted the next day.
Using a CPAP machine won’t just help you sleep better. It can also help improve a variety of side effects linked to untreated sleep apnea, greatly improving your overall quality of life.
As we’ve written about recently, using a CPAP machine can help alleviate asthma symptoms that are related to sleep apnea. Individuals with sleep apnea are more likely to develop asthma than the general population, and the added irritation of the bronchial tubes can even contribute to nighttime asthma attacks. Because both asthma and sleep apnea can cause irritation of the airways, the two conditions can actually make each other worse without proper care.
However, using a CPAP machine has been found to make the bronchial tubes larger, while also making them less sensitive and less prone to irritation. Using a humidifier with your CPAP machine can further enhance the effectiveness of CPAP treatment in reducing the severity of asthma in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea.
Untreated sleep apnea makes you three times as likely to develop acid reflux. This occurs when the body tries to counter the airflow obstruction that occurs during sleep apnea, which often results in opening the valve between the stomach and food pipe. This makes it easier for acid reflux to get to the esophagus, which can worsen both heartburn and chronic cough.
However, research shows that using a CPAP machine makes you 42 percent less likely to have nighttime heartburn, while also greatly reducing your risk for chronic bronchitis and for having a morning cough with mucus. People who were compliant with their CPAP therapy were also less likely to experience common nighttime side effects related to heartburn and chronic cough, such as belching or wheezing.
There is also some evidence that CPAP compliance can even help relieve daytime symptoms for heartburn and chronic cough, allowing for more comfortable breathing.
It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that sleep apnea, as a sleep disorder that directly affects breathing, can also contribute to or worsen other breathing disorders if it isn’t treated properly. But the lack of quality sleep that occurs when you don’t take steps to manage sleep apnea can be even more problematic in the long run, causing significant harm to your physical and mental health.
For example, obstructive sleep apnea has been found to increase the risk for several serious physical ailments. This includes heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. A lack of sleep can heighten stress levels in the body, keeping blood pressure from going down at night like it normally does during sleep.
While these conditions can also be influenced by other lifestyle factors, such as your weight and general fitness level, a lack of sleep can make them even worse and lead to additional complications, including an increased risk for early death. However, studies have shown that CPAP treatment helps lower both daytime and nighttime blood pressure.
Similar outcomes can be observed with mental health. Left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk for and severity of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These conditions can disrupt relationships, hurt workplace performance, and even lead to additional sleep disruptions. These issues can be countered by using a CPAP machine to keep sleep interruptions related to sleep apnea under control.
While using a CPAP machine will not address mental health issues related to chemical imbalances, it can at least help ensure that sleep deprivation does not become a contributor to mental or emotional challenges.
Everyone feels better after a good night’s sleep. By using a CPAP machine to keep your sleep apnea episodes in check, you won’t just feel better when you wake up in the morning. You’ll be able to improve related conditions like asthma, heartburn, chronic cough, while also reducing your risk for serious issues like heart disease.
Of course, depending on the nature of your health ailments, you may need to undergo additional lifestyle changes as well to get your health to where it needs to be. Consult with your doctor to develop a personalized plan based on your specific needs and conditions so that you can maximize the potential of using a CPAP machine and other healthy choices.
Following through with CPAP therapy can be a true game-changer for your overall well-being, but getting the equipment you need to manage sleep apnea can be tricky if you don’t have good health insurance. This is where Help Medical Supplies comes in. With discounted prices on CPAP machines, masks, and more, you can save hundreds of dollars on your next purchase of this essential medical equipment. That’s sure to help you sleep better!
]]>When you add trouble falling asleep to obstructive sleep apnea, you can further compound fatigue and other health problems stemming from a lack of sleep.
By taking steps to understand why your mind can’t relax at night, as well as how you can calm your thoughts, you can set yourself up for a better bedtime routine and higher-quality sleep.
“Overthinking” at night is a common issue, and it can be related to a variety of causes. Notably, mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD have all been found to make individuals more likely to have trouble falling asleep at night — quite often, due to overthinking that results from their condition.
However, this isn’t the only possible contributor. Many people will go through periods where they are more likely to have racing thoughts at night because of major life events or times of stress. This could include times when you are overworked, when you are looking forward to exciting plans like a big vacation, or dreading something (like a tough situation at work). These circumstances may not be as persistent as racing thoughts related to a mental health issue, but they can still result in several days (or even weeks) where you have trouble falling asleep.
Part of the problem associated with racing thoughts is that we often take the wrong approach in trying to stop them. Trying to “suppress” or block out your thoughts will often just make them more persistent, and make it that much harder to fall asleep.
Left unchecked, this can soon become a habit, where you spend your time lying in bed in a state of anxiety or eager anticipation, letting your thoughts control your bedtime rather than the other way around.
One night of not getting sufficient sleep can leave you fatigued and irritable the next day — even more so if you also suffer from sleep apnea. But long-term, consistently getting fewer than seven hours of sleep each night can worsen mental health disorders like depression and anxiety (or increase your risk for developing them). A lack of sleep can also contribute to significant physical health issues, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
So, if trying to suppress your racing thoughts at night will only make them worse, what can you do to relax your brain at bedtime?
Fortunately, you’re not stuck without options. Much of your ability to relax your thoughts at night starts with your daytime activities. Even something that doesn’t seem related to your thought processes, like getting in a good workout, can make it easier to relax your mind at night. Exercising during the day makes you more tired at night, so you’ll be able to fall asleep quickly rather than get distracted by your thoughts.
A relaxing bedtime routine can also help you fall asleep faster, even during times when you aren’t prone to racing thoughts. Taking a warm bath or practicing a brief yoga session can help soothe your mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep. Using a white noise machine can also give you something else to focus on as you try to fall asleep.
Another common practice is to schedule a half-hour session of “worry time” at least one hour before going to bed. During this time, make a list of your sources of worry and stress. Then, try to think through potential solutions for them. Develop an action plan so you know how to address the culprits behind your stress.
Alternatively, after making your list, you could make a list of potential outcomes associated with each situation. Sometimes, writing down the best, worst, and most likely outcomes can provide much-needed perspective. You could also dig deeper into your feelings about why a particular situation is causing so much worry.
Essentially, the idea behind this practice is that you get all those thoughts and concerns out of the way earlier in the evening. By the time you are ready to go to bed, you’ve already processed your thoughts and made a plan. And if you have another idea or potential solution come to mind while you’re lying in bed, write it down, too! Just keep a notepad handy so you can quickly write down your idea and not have to mull it over any longer than you have to.
If you’re still lying in bed and struggling to fall asleep, you might benefit from a quick reset. Get out of bed, do some simple stretches or read in a book (not a phone or e-reader) to reset your mind, and get back in bed.
By taking steps to mitigate stress in your life and relax your mind as you get ready to go to sleep, racing thoughts will cease to be a recurring challenge. This can be especially important for people with obstructive sleep apnea, who already face sleep interruptions throughout the night.
Even when you can fall asleep quickly, nighttime breathing interruptions that wake you up dozens of times per hour can keep you from getting sufficient rest, by not allowing you to go through a complete sleep cycle.
If you are struggling with obstructive sleep apnea, a prescription for a CPAP machine can help. By providing pressurized airflow throughout the night, a CPAP machine will keep your airways open, prevent breathing interruptions, and help you sleep better. That’s sure to help your mind relax.
]]>But that’s not the only thing it can help with. Research indicates that for people with obstructive sleep apnea and asthma, using a CPAP machine can also help improve asthma symptoms.
While a CPAP machine isn’t a miracle cure that will replace your other asthma treatments, understanding how it can help alleviate your symptoms can make a big difference for your daily quality of life.
Believe it or not, sleep apnea and asthma are actually connected. Studies have consistently found that if you have asthma, you’re more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea. In one study, 27 percent of individuals with asthma developed obstructive sleep apnea within four years of when the study began.
There are a few reasons why asthma is believed to increase the risk for sleep apnea. Both disorders share a few notable risk factors, including obesity and smoking. Asthma can also negatively impact your sleep quality and cause inflammation of the airways. Since sleep apnea can also cause inflammation, the two conditions can actually make each other worse if not treated properly.
The inhaled corticosteroids that are sometimes used to treat asthma can also increase sleep apnea risk due to a side effect of causing additional fat accumulation in the upper airways.
Worse still, when sleep apnea isn’t treated, it can cause asthma symptoms to get worse and make medications less effective. This could result in more frequent (and possibly more severe) asthma attacks.
Because of this, if you suffer from asthma and experience symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea (such as waking up tired most mornings or snoring loudly), you should schedule a sleep study to determine if you need a CPAP machine.
While CPAP machines are prescribed to help control obstructive sleep apnea, research has found that using a CPAP machine can also have a positive impact on asthma symptoms.
For example, Healthline reports that using a CPAP machine can “help with asthma by promoting better nighttime sleep, lessening inflammation, reducing reflux episodes [and] improving the function of the lower airways.”
Other research reveals that using a CPAP machine can help reduce the risk for nighttime asthma attacks, and that patients who use CPAP machines also report improved overall quality of life when surveyed about their asthma symptoms.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that using a CPAP machine is going to be enough on its own to improve asthma symptoms. However, for people who also suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, consistently using a CPAP machine should be considered a necessary part of keeping asthma symptoms under control and ensuring that their other treatments will work properly.
One potential issue asthma patients should be aware of is that a CPAP machine could cause additional airway irritation due to continually delivering dry air. A humidifier is a must-have for asthma patients, since it adds moisture to the air delivered by the CPAP machine for more comfortable, irritation-free treatment.
In addition to using a CPAP machine as prescribed by a sleep specialist, individuals with both asthma and obstructive sleep apnea can improve their breathing and overall health by focusing on important lifestyle changes.
For example, obesity is a noted risk factor for both sleep apnea and asthma. People who are overweight or obese should work with their doctor to achieve a healthy weight. This could include developing a daily exercise plan that accounts for the severity of your asthma, as well as replacing junk food with a healthier diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Individuals with asthma should also strictly follow directions for any other prescribed medications related to their symptoms, and stay up to date on vaccinations to avoid respiratory infections. Try to stay indoors on days with high pollen counts or poor air quality.
You should also look at lifestyle changes that can promote better sleep (especially since poor sleep can worsen asthma symptoms). For example, you can improve your sleep environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Avoid screen time before bed and ideally, keep screens out of the bedroom. Avoid eating or drinking shortly before bed — especially drinks containing caffeine or alcohol, which can disrupt sleep.
Consult with your doctor for other lifestyle tips for improving your asthma and sleep apnea symptoms. Your doctor can help provide an individualized health plan based on your specific situation and unique needs.
When you use your CPAP machine as directed by a sleep specialist, you won’t just enjoy higher-quality sleep with fewer interruptions. If you also have asthma, you can potentially reduce its severity as well. Improving both conditions can dramatically improve your quality of life!
While CPAP machines can be extremely helpful, there is no denying they can also be rather pricy, especially if you don’t have good health insurance. That’s why at Help Medical Supplies, you’ll find high-quality CPAP machines and other supplies at significant discounts off of MSRP. You can potentially save hundreds of dollars on the equipment that will help you breathe better, day and night.
]]>It is also extremely overlooked in women.
A big part of this is because men have long been found to have a greater risk for obstructive sleep apnea than women. As a result, it’s estimated that 90 percent of women with sleep apnea don’t know they have it — even though nearly one in five suffer from the condition.
With long-term complications that include depression and anxiety, heart disease, diabetes, memory problems, and even early birth and low birth weight during pregnancy, it is essential that women receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for this sleep disorder.
Here’s what you should know.
As the Sleep Foundation explains, a big part of why women are typically less likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea than men is because of their hormones. Estrogen and progesterone have been found to reduce the risk of developing sleep apnea. However, this means that conditions that disrupt hormone levels can subsequently increase the risk for this sleep disorder in women.
This is especially true of conditions that lower estrogen levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause. In menopause, the drop in estrogen levels can actually double the risk of developing sleep apnea.
Many women also experience sleep apnea during pregnancy due to the physical and hormonal changes that take place during this period. While pregnancy-related sleep apnea often resolves itself after the end of a pregnancy, this isn’t always the case.
Aside from these hormone-related concerns, women share many of the same risk factors for developing obstructive sleep apnea with men. Being overweight or obese, having large tonsils or tongue, and a neck circumference 16 inches or larger are common physical factors that can increase your risk. Certain activities, such as drinking alcoholic beverages or taking sedatives before bed, can also increase your risk. And if you have a family history of sleep apnea, you are also more likely to get it yourself.
Being aware of the risk factors for sleep apnea is one thing — but then there are the observable symptoms that can have a direct impact on your quality of life.
Many of these symptoms only occur at night, and often go unnoticed by the sleeper, even if they are waking up dozens of times per hour. A bed partner or roommate will usually be the one to notice common symptoms like loud snoring broken up by choking or gasping for breath, or temporary pauses in breathing.
Nighttime heartburn, restless sleep, and frequently waking up to go to the bathroom could also be linked to sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. Notably, women with obstructive sleep apnea also have an increased risk for restless legs syndrome, which further disrupts sleep.
Sleep apnea symptoms also manifest during the day — typically as a result of the poor sleep from the night before. Women with untreated sleep apnea often experience extreme fatigue. You may not have enough energy for normal activities, and be more likely to fall asleep while working or driving. A lack of sleep can also make you more anxious or irritable, while also having memory issues and trouble concentrating. Morning headaches and increased pain sensitivity may also occur.
Interestingly, the hormonal changes that are part of the menstrual cycle can also cause sleep apnea symptoms to worsen or improve at different stages of the cycle. If you’ve experienced such symptoms, it’s well worth consulting with a doctor to see if you have sleep apnea.
When you meet with your doctor, they will typically go over your symptoms and risk factors to determine if you should do a full sleep study with a sleep specialist. During a sleep study, your breathing, heart rate, and more will be monitored during sleep to determine whether you have sleep apnea or another sleep disorder.
If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, the sleep specialist will usually prescribe a CPAP machine, which delivers pressurized air through a mask to keep your airways from collapsing at night. The air pressure level is determined by the severity of your sleep apnea. A sleep specialist can also help you figure out the right mask for CPAP therapy based on your face shape, breathing, and sleep position.
Notably, the last few years have seen the introduction of sleep apnea products that specifically cater to the needs of women. This includes masks with better sizing and CPAP machines with adjusted treatment algorithms that cater to female breathing. With this level of treatment, women have a better way to manage their condition.
Diagnosing sleep apnea and prescribing CPAP therapy is one thing. Actually getting that equipment can be quite another — especially if you don’t have health insurance. This is where Help Medical Supplies comes in.
At Help Medical Supplies, we offer a wide range of CPAP products designed specifically for women, including CPAP machines and masks. Just as important, these products are available at significantly discounted prices off of MSRP, helping you save money on this essential medical equipment. With free shipping available on orders of $99 and more and available financing on select orders, getting the care you need to manage obstructive sleep apnea has never been more doable.
]]>With both obstructive and central sleep apnea, a temporary pause in breathing will cause the sleeper to temporarily wake up to restart the breathing process. Individuals can experience dozens of these sleep interruptions per hour, keeping them from getting rejuvenating deep sleep and leaving them exhausted the next day.
While the end result is similar, understanding whether you are dealing with obstructive or central sleep apnea is key to figuring out the right treatment plan for your needs. Here’s what you should know about these conditions.
When most people think of sleep apnea, they’re probably thinking of obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, obstructive sleep apnea is believed to affect as many as 30 percent of adults in the United States, and makes up the vast majority of sleep apnea cases in general.
Obstructive sleep apnea is when the throat becomes blocked or constricted during sleep, restricting the flow of air. This can occur when the fatty tissues in the throat collapse as the muscles relax, or if the tongue falls back into a position that blocks airflow. This not only restricts breathing, but it can also contribute to snoring.
One of the biggest risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea is being overweight. Being overweigh or obese results in more fatty tissue around the neck, which increases the likelihood of the throat getting blocked during sleep. Other physical features, such as a wide neck, large tongue, or shorter jaw can also increase the likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea.
You can control some other risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea, such as sleeping on your back, using alcohol before bed, or smoking. However, risk will generally increase for all people as they get older, particularly if they have a family history of obstructive sleep apnea or certain hormone conditions.
Obstructive sleep apnea is treated using CPAP machines, which provide a flow of pressurized air throughout the night. The pressurized air keeps the throat from collapsing during sleep to prevent nighttime disruptions. The pressure level is determined based on the severity of your sleep apnea.
Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea may also be advised to improve diet and exercise to lose weight so they can reduce the severity of their condition.
Central sleep apnea is far less common than obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, it’s estimated that only one percent of adults deal with central sleep apnea.
Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain experiences communication disruptions with the muscles that control breathing. For example, the brain stem might not recognize carbon dioxide levels in the body, and as a result, fail to send appropriate signals to the breathing muscles. This can cause shallow breathing and complete pauses in breathing.
Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, the causes behind central sleep apnea aren’t as clearly defined. It is believed to often be a byproduct of other health conditions, including brain steam injuries, kidney failure, stroke, and heart failure. The risk for central sleep apnea also increases with age, and when taking certain prescription medications. Sleeping at high altitude can also trigger central sleep apnea.
Because of its link with other medical conditions, “treatment” for sleep apnea often involves getting treatment for any other medical issues the person might be dealing with. And of course, the use of a CPAP machine is often recommended to prevent breathing disruptions at night.
While the reasons why central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea occur may vary, they share many of the same symptoms. The end result is the same: disrupted sleep that makes it hard to feel fully rested din the morning.
As a result, people with sleep apnea usually experience extreme fatigue during the day. In some cases, this fatigue can be so severe that they might fall asleep during other activities, including work or driving. Trouble concentrating and increased irritability are also common. People with sleep apnea are also more likely to have restless sleep with frequent awakenings and morning headaches.
Because obstructive sleep apnea results from constricted airways, they might also have a dry mouth or throat irritation in the morning. People with obstructive sleep apnea often snore or make gasping or choking sounds during sleep. On the other hand, those with central sleep apnea likely won’t snore, but will instead have shortness of breath and nighttime chest pains.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should talk to a doctor to go over your health history. Based on their findings, they may recommend a sleep study, where specialists will track your breathing, heart rate, and other vitals during sleep to diagnose sleep apnea and determine which treatment will work best for you.
While CPAP and BiPAP machines can help individuals with either obstructive sleep apnea or central sleep apnea, there’s no denying that this equipment can be very expensive if you don’t have insurance to help foot the bill.
With Help Medical Supplies, you don’t have to worry about this necessary medical equipment breaking the bank. We offer discounted prices on CPAP machines, masks, and other accessories, as well as free shipping on most orders of $99 or more. Select purchases also qualify for interest-free financing to help make your purchase more manageable.
With the right CPAP equipment, you can get the quality sleep you need, regardless of the type of sleep apnea you’re dealing with.
]]>Understanding how your sleep position affects sleep apnea — as well as how it can affect your use of a CPAP mask — is an important part of enjoying effective therapy. Here’s a closer look at what you should know about how different sleep positions influence sleep apnea and the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy.
First, it’s worth noting that your sleep position can actually influence the severity of your sleep apnea. In fact, for some people, simply changing the position that they sleep in can drastically reduce how many breathing interruptions they experience during the night. For people with very mild cases of sleep apnea, a change in sleeping positions could be enough to eliminate symptoms entirely.
As the Sleep Foundation explains, sleeping on your side is generally considered to be the best position for sleep apnea. Side sleeping reduces the likelihood of the soft tissues in the mouth and throat moving into a position where they restrict airflow. Sleeping on your stomach can have a similar effect, though studies are less conclusive on its ability to reduce sleep apnea symptoms. These positions can also improve central sleep apnea, though researchers aren’t entirely sure why.
Sleeping on your back is generally considered the worst choice for sleep apnea. The force of gravity pulls the soft tissues of the mouth and throat back in a way that makes them more likely to block the airways. It also makes the tongue more likely to move into a position that restricts airflow. Doctors often recommend that back sleepers try to sleep on their side instead or sleep with their head raised to reduce the severity of their symptoms.
That being said, most people who struggle with obstructive sleep apnea won’t be able to completely “solve” their problems just by changing their sleep position. Most people will still need the help of a CPAP machine to manage their symptoms and achieve restful sleep.
While sleeping on your back is considered “bad” for sleep apnea in general, this isn’t necessarily the case when you’re using a CPAP mask. Some sleep positions are better suited for certain types of CPAP masks than others. When consulting with a sleep specialist about your CPAP therapy needs, your sleep position is an essential factor to consider.
Sleeping on your back: Sleeping on your back is generally the easiest sleep position for using a CPAP mask. This is because sleeping on your back keeps your mask away from the pillow. As a result, there is little risk of the mask getting knocked out of the proper position during the night. Whether you prefer a full face mask or nasal pillows, just about any CPAP mask option will work well for back sleepers.
Sleeping on your side: Sleeping on your side may be the best position for managing sleep apnea symptoms, but it’s more of a “second-best” choice for using a CPAP mask. The large profile of a full face mask can cause it to press into the pillow while sleeping on your side, which could cause it to get knocked loose.
On the other hand, nasal masks and nasal pillows generally work well for side sleepers, since they are less likely to get moved out of place by the pillow. Extra attention should be given to headgear straps to ensure the mask is firmly in place.
Sleeping on your stomach: Stomach sleeping is the worst option for CPAP users. This is because sleeping on your stomach usually results in your face being pressed against the pillow. The mask could get pressed uncomfortably tight against your skin, or it could get moved out of place.
Nasal pillows are generally the best choice if you sleep on your stomach, since they are inserted into the nostrils. This makes them less likely to get pushed out of place during the night.
You’ll also need to consider other sleep needs. For example, people who breathe through their mouth at night need to use a full face mask. Nasal pillows are generally best suited for lower air pressure settings. Because of this, you might need additional sleep support to sleep in a “better” position for your mask. For example, a CPAP pillow will be more accommodating to larger masks for side and stomach sleepers, while a body pillow can make it easier to train yourself to sleep on your side.
Your preferred sleep position can directly influence which type of CPAP mask is right for you. One thing that remains consistent for all individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, however, is the need for a quality CPAP machine to provide consistent air pressure throughout the night.
The one problem, of course, is that CPAP machines can be quite expensive, especially if you don’t have health insurance. This is where Help Medical Supplies comes in. We offer a wide range of quality CPAP and BiPAP machines at significant discounts off of MSRP — plus you can save even more with free shipping on orders of $99 or more! Combine that with available financing on large orders, and getting the CPAP equipment you need has never been more manageable.
]]>For people with obstructive sleep apnea, this is worth paying attention to, in large part because new research indicates that people with this sleep disorder are at greater risk of developing long COVID. Here’s what you should know.
Long COVID is an interesting phenomenon that describes a variety of long-term effects that can occur after someone has a COVID-19 infection. The severity and length of long COVID can vary from person to person, but it is generally found to be most common with people who were more seriously ill from their initial COVID infection.
In some cases, long COVID lasts a few weeks. For other people, lingering symptoms can last for years.
Some of the symptoms associated with long COVID include extreme fatigue, fever, trouble breathing, chest pain, cough, “brain fog” or trouble concentrating, dizziness, anxiety, and sleep problems. And that’s not even a complete list!
The fact that long COVID can contribute to additional sleep problems is especially noteworthy for people who already struggle with obstructive sleep apnea. COVID-related complications combined with sleep apnea can leave you feeling completely exhausted, without the energy you need for work and other activities.
A recent study published in the scientific journal Sleep evaluated data sets on over 2 million adults and 106,000 children to determine if obstructive sleep apnea increased the risk of developing long COVID.
While outcomes varied between the two adult groups, both data sets found that obstructive sleep apnea significantly increased the risk of long COVID compared to the general population. In one group, people with sleep apnea were 12 percent more likely to develop long COVID. In the larger data set, sleep apnea patients had a 75 percent higher risk. Interestingly, women were found to have a higher risk of long COVID than men in both groups.
Lorna Thorpe, PhD, MPH, the senior author of the study, theorizes that obstructive sleep apnea’s connections with other health conditions known to complicate COVID are at least partly to blame. As she explains, “People with sleep apnea tend to have higher rates of obesity and hypertension and other cardiovascular problems. And these are also common risk factors for severe acute COVID, and have been implicated as risk factors for long COVID. […] Sleep apnea can also result in increased inflammation and a greater propensity to develop infection.”
Sleep apnea has long been associated with an increased risk for illness because sleep fragmentation can weaken the body’s immune system. The inflammation that also results from nightly breathing interruptions can make it harder to recover from illnesses such as COVID-19. As a result, people with obstructive sleep apnea are more likely to get seriously ill from COVID and other sicknesses, and will take longer to recover.
With this context, it’s hardly surprising that obstructive sleep apnea can increase the risk for long COVID — and that this would continue to be a concern even with everyday life mostly going back to normal.
While most people are largely no longer worried about COVID-19, people with obstructive sleep apnea should still consider taking some extra precautions because of their increased risk.
At a most basic level, this means you should consider getting the COVID vaccine and avoiding people who are sick. Some people may feel more comfortable wearing a mask in crowded public settings.
If you do get sick, seek help from a healthcare professional right away. Prompt treatment can help reduce the severity of your illness and speed up your recovery.
Of course, one of the most important things you can do is ensure you are getting quality sleep at night! Getting truly restful sleep will strengthen your immune system so you are less likely to get sick in the first place. For people with obstructive sleep apnea, this starts by using a CPAP machine.
CPAP machines provide a steady, constant flow of pressurized air through a mask, keeping your airways open during the night. This prevents breathing interruptions that would otherwise cause you to wake up several times each hour.
Not sure if you have sleep apnea? This condition is commonly under-diagnosed, resulting in many people not getting the treatment they need. Common symptoms to watch out for include feeling extremely tired during the day (including falling asleep), morning headache and sore throat, or your partner complaining that you snore or gasp for breath in your sleep. Consult with a sleep specialist so you can take a sleep study and get a diagnosis and prescription for keeping sleep apnea in check.
With a quality CPAP machine to keep obstructive sleep apnea in check, you can enjoy better immune system health, which will reduce your risk of getting sick from COVID or other illnesses. Of course, CPAP machines can be very expensive, especially if you don’t have health insurance.
This is where Help Medical Supplies comes in. We offer discounted rates on CPAP machines, masks, and other sleep apnea supplies to help make your care more affordable. With free shipping on most orders of $99 or more and available financing on select orders, you can get the equipment you need to stay healthy while maintaining a healthy budget as well!
]]>For people with obstructive sleep apnea, however, this isn’t just a periodic occurrence. It’s something that you may be dealing with practically every night. If a single night of poor sleep can hurt your mood and focus, it stands to reason that prolonged periods of poor sleep could be even worse.
And new research shows just how seriously untreated sleep apnea can affect your well-being, having a direct impact on your risk for cognitive decline and depression.
A recent study from China further cemented the link between sleep apnea and mental health — and specifically, depression. The study used self-reported health information from over 9,000 people.
According to Sleepopolis, “The results showed that people with self-reported sleep apnea were more than two times more likely to have symptoms of depression. When researchers removed any factors that could cloud the results, they still found people with sleep apnea had a 136 percent higher chance of experiencing depressive symptoms than other people. Also, the researchers found that the more severe the sleep apnea, the higher the risk of depressive symptoms. Consequently, people with milder sleep apnea had a lower risk.”
Because of this, the researchers concluded that sleep apnea can increase the risk of developing depression, and that individuals who have the sleep disorder should also receive mental health screenings. Of course, promptly diagnosing and managing sleep apnea may also be able to help reduce the risk of depression linked to poor sleep.
Another recent study adds more fuel to the fire of the link between sleep apnea and various cognitive problems. This study looked at men who had recently been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. They did not have other conditions like hypertension or type 2 diabetes that could also affect their cognitive performance.
The men in the study were asked to perform a variety of cognitive tests, and their results were compared to a control group that did not have obstructive sleep apnea. According to Science Alert, “the men with OSA scored lower for sustained attention, executive functioning, short-term visual recognition memory, and social and emotion recognition than the control group. The more severe the OSA, the worse the scores compared to the control group.”
What made this study especially notable was the fact that the men in the study didn’t have any other health issues that could have contributed to their poor cognitive performance. The study showed that sleep apnea itself can directly interfere with these activities.
The researchers theorize that this is because of fragmented sleep, brain inflammation, and blood flow and oxygen level changes, all related to sleep apnea.
Both studies examined sleep apnea’s possible influence on complex mental health issues. While cognitive function and depression can be influenced by a wide variety of factors, the new research makes it clear that obstructive sleep apnea can have a direct negative effect in and of itself.
For people who are experiencing depression, it may be worthwhile to look at your sleep quality. If you have symptoms of depression such as loss of interest in your hobbies, low appetite, poor mood, negative self-talk, and poor sleep habits, you should probably visit a specialist to get to the root of the problem.
Take stock of your sleep quality when assessing your mental health. Common symptoms of sleep apnea include waking up with a dry mouth or headache, feeling excessively fatigued during the day, loud snoring, and experiencing pauses in breathing followed by gasping for breath during the night. Your bed partner may inform you of some of these symptoms disrupting their own sleep.
If your symptoms indicate that you are struggling with sleep apnea or another sleep disorder, you should schedule a sleep study. During a sleep study, specialists monitor your heart rate, breathing rate, and other vital signs to determine whether you have sleep apnea and how severe it is.
If you have sleep apnea, your specialist will likely prescribe a CPAP machine. A CPAP machine provides a steady flow of pressurized air (at a level prescribed based on your condition) throughout the night. This keeps your airways from collapsing to prevent interruptions to breathing and sleep.
By directly addressing the cause of your disrupted sleep, using a CPAP machine will help you manage sleep apnea and reduce your risk for cognitive decline and depression. As you use a CPAP machine and take other steps to improve your sleep quality (like following a consistent bedtime routine and avoiding blue light exposure before bed), you’ll enjoy better sleep and improved mental health.
As these recent studies reveal, managing obstructive sleep apnea won’t just help you feel better rested. Quality sleep protects your mental and emotional well-being, reducing your risk for cognitive decline, depression, and other severe issues. And the best way to manage sleep apnea is with a CPAP machine.
While CPAP machines and accessories can be expensive (particularly without health insurance), Help Medical Supplies can make a difference. With a wide selection of equipment from top brands at discounted prices, we make it easy to get the equipment you need at a price you can afford. Free shipping and available financing on select orders further ensures you can rest easy as you take steps to improve your sleep.
]]>The idea that treating sleep apnea could cause you to gain weight sounds counterintuitive at first, but some are arguing that CPAP treatment has this affect. Here is a closer look at some of the current claims surrounding CPAP machines and whether they can affect your weight.
The possibility that using a CPAP machine could cause you to gain weight has gained some added attention thanks to a recent report from Sleepopolis, which highlighted both studies and anecdotal evidence that CPAP users are more likely to gain weight than lose it after beginning their treatment.
One woman interviewed for the article explained that because she was sleeping more soundly after starting CPAP therapy, she had fewer limb movements during the night — so she burned fewer calories than she once did during sleep.
Others suggest that CPAP therapy can potentially lower the body’s basal metabolic rate (or BMR), which means that a person will burn fewer calories. However, the same study noted that other factors had a much larger role in BMR variability, and that it is hard to blame weight gain on a single factor.
Finally, some criticized the methods used by some of the studies and their methods (such as a small number of participants). Studies on CPAP therapy and weight gain have seen dramatically different results, which makes it hard to draw any conclusive evidence.
On the other hand, there is ample evidence that poor sleep can lead to unhealthy weight gain — and that getting good sleep can make it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
A report from the Harvard School of Public Health notes that a “lack of sleep could be a major contributor to the obesity epidemic,” citing a study that followed 68,000 middle-aged women in the United States over 16 years. This study found that women who slept only five hours or less per night were 15 percent more likely to become obese than those who slept at least seven hours per night.
It has been noted that sleep deprivation — whether the result of sleep apnea, insomnia, or poor sleep hygiene — often results in increased appetite, especially for foods high in carbohydrates and fats. At the same time, sleep deprivation naturally causes people to feel more tired during the day, which results in them becoming less physically active.
Essentially, poor sleep makes it harder to make “smart” choices in relationship to other activities that have a direct impact on your weight and overall health. By making you more likely to eat poorly and less likely to exercise, sleep deprivation creates the perfect storm for unhealthy weight gain.
By helping you get higher-quality sleep each night, it stands to reason that using a CPAP machine could have a positive influence on your weight. Simply by having more energy, you’ll be more likely to be physically active. And the potential for reduced appetite (and fewer cravings for unhealthy snacks to get an energy boost) can further help to avoid weight gain.
There can be arguments made for and against the idea of a CPAP machine affecting your body weight. But regardless of whether you use a CPAP machine or not, being overweight or obese will increase your risk for developing obstructive sleep apnea. And sleep deprivation can ultimately lead to additional weight gain.
Because of this, you should seek to live a healthy lifestyle that helps you either maintain weight or lose extra pounds. Make a lifestyle plan in collaboration with your doctor, who can recommend changes specific to your needs. However, there are a few general “best practices” that can be helpful for most people.
First, be mindful of your diet. A diet that avoids heavily processed foods high in sugar and salt can be especially helpful for people who have also been diagnosed with conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. A diet focused on whole foods and plant-based foods will provide more sustainable energy, while being less likely to contribute to weight gain.
Being physically active will also make a difference. A consistent mix of aerobic and anaerobic exercise doesn’t just help with your weight. It can improve stamina and muscle strength, making it easier to carry out a variety of daily activities.
Finally, practice good sleep hygiene so you can get better-quality sleep each night. A dark, cool, and quiet bedroom is more conducive to falling asleep quickly and staying asleep. Avoid screen time before bed, and follow a set bedtime routine (and sleep time) to help your body know when to go to sleep.
The arguments about whether using a CPAP machine can contribute to weight gain will unlikely go back and forth for some time to come. But what is certain is that improved sleep quality can greatly improve your quality of life, and leave you better equipped to make healthy choices.
With that in mind, a CPAP machine is well worth considering if you have been struggling with obstructive sleep apnea. And with Help Medical Supplies, it’s never been easier to get the equipment you need — even if you don’t have health insurance. With heavily discounted pricing on new and certified pre-owned equipment, available financing, and free shipping on most orders $99 and up, you can get the quality equipment you need so you can enjoy the sleep you deserve.
]]>The original Philips Respironics recall was issued after foam degradation and exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from sound abatement foam were reported in a wide range of the company’s devices, including many of its popular DreamStation CPAP and BiPAP machines. The sound abatement foam would often degrade, resulting in small particles that could be inhaled or ingested by a CPAP user. The recall was issued after it was determined that these issues posed a significant risk for toxic carcinogenic effects, harm to the kidneys and liver, airway inflammation, and more.
Unfortunately, Philips Respironics’ process for managing the recall has been rife with problems — and a new Class 1 recall for Philips Respironics DreamStation devices that were repaired as part of the original recall is only adding to the problems.
The new FDA notice applies to over 1,000 DreamStation devices that had been recalled and repaired as part of the original recall notice.
As the FDA explains, “Philips is recalling certain reworked Philips DreamStations because some devices were assigned incorrect or duplicate serial numbers during initial programming. This duplication can cause therapy to be delivered using the wrong prescription or factory default settings. Additionally, it may fail to deliver any therapy at all. There is no warning or indication to the user that the DreamStation is not working the way the doctor intended or prescribed.”
The FDA has labelled this a Class 1 recall — the most serious type of recall — because therapy failure could result in heart failure, respiratory failure, and even death. To date, there have been 43 complaints connected to this new issue, though no injuries or deaths have been reported.
According to the FDA, Philips should be sending its customers a letter with a list of serial numbers that are affected by the new recall. CPAP users can check the serial number on the bottom of their device to confirm whether it needs to be repaired. As noted in the recall instructions, users can contact their medical provider to get a manual pressure reset to ensure their device is operating at the proper therapy settings.
These aren’t the first devices to get “re-recalled,” either. An FDA recall was issued in December 2022 for Trilogy 100 and Trilogy 200 ventilator devices that had been repaired as part of the original recall. In this case, silicone foam adhesion failures and exposure to debris from the foam resulted in a new Class 1 recall.
According to the Philips Respironics website, “90% of the production of replacement devices and repair kits globally has been completed.” At the same time, the website also indicates that only 2.46 million repair kits and replacement devices have been sent out within the United States. Considering that roughly 5 million machines were impacted by the recall, this indicates that a significant number of customers still have not received a replacement device.
In addition, the FDA has challenged Philips’ numbers, noting that the 2.46 million figure includes repair kits that have been shipped internally, rather than to customers, further increasing wait times for replacements.
Part of the problem is that many customers have apparently not been properly notified about the recall. CBS recently reported on a woman who claims that she only learned about the recall through Facebook, rather than ever receiving a report from the company. That woman is one of the many who have since sued Philips because of respiratory issues linked to the defective CPAP machines.
As time has gone on, the details surrounding the nature of the original recall have led to increased scrutiny and pressure on Philips Respironics. Since the original recall was issued, the FDA has received over 98,000 complaints linking the devices to chest pain, cancer, pneumonia, and other respiratory problems. The agency has also received 346 reports of deaths that are claimed to be linked to the foam degradation and emissions.
Philips has also upset manufacturers of CPAP cleaning devices such as SoClean after it claimed that the foam degradation was likely the fault of ozone sanitizing devices. SoClean has also filed a lawsuit against the company under the basis that Philips tried to use it as a scapegoat for their own problems.
For those who are yet to receive a replacement of their original device, finding a safe and suitable placement should clearly be a priority.
For individuals who used (or still use) a Philips Respironics device, this entire process can be understandably stressful. If you are concerned about whether the device you use is affected by the original recall or the latest guidance from the FDA, your best course of action is to contact Philips.
For guidance related to the recall, you can use Philips Respironics’ web portal, email patientsupport@philips.com, or call 1 (800) 387-3311. Their representatives can provide up to date, detailed information regarding your device.
If you or your doctor decide that your best option is to get a replacement device from another manufacturer, Help Medical Supplies can help. With CPAP machines from ResMed, 3B Medical and other leading brands available at significant discounts off of MSRP, you can get a replacement device that will help you stay compliant with your sleep apnea therapy needs.
]]>While there are many things that can help you get used to your CPAP machine, new research indicates that your preferences for going to bed and waking up in the morning could influence the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy.
As it turns out, whether you are an “early bird” or a “night owl” could play a role in your CPAP adherence. Fortunately, you can take steps to maximize the effectiveness of sleep apnea therapy, no matter when you like to go to bed or wake up.
The Yale School of Medicine recently conducted research on CPAP users to determine if their chronotype (or their preferred time for sleep) influenced how well they adhered to prescribed CPAP therapy. This study followed CPAP users over a six month period, and ultimately determined that “early birds” or “morning people” who woke up earlier averaged an additional 40 minutes of CPAP use per night when compared to other groups.
“Each additional half hour of CPAP use is clinically meaningful. It has an impact on a patient’s quality of life. So 40 minutes is significant,” explained study author Andrey Zinchuk. “For now, the findings suggest that chronotype may be something we should pay more attention to. If a patient isn’t a morning person, maybe we consider their barriers to CPAP use more closely. This study also reiterates how important and influential our biological clocks are for all kinds of health factors, both biological and behavioral.”
So what does this mean? Essentially, the study indicates that early risers are generally going to be more likely to use their CPAP for a longer time at night, resulting in higher overall sleep quality and being less likely to experience some of the more severe side effects of sleep apnea.
Regardless of the time you go to bed, most people who struggle with CPAP adherence do so because they find the mask or the flow of pressurized air to be too uncomfortable. Some people might even remove the mask in their sleep!
Needless to say, failure to wear your CPAP mask throughout the night won’t help your sleep apnea. Because of this, sleep specialists often recommend that new CPAP users follow a few best practices for getting used to their treatment.
For example, many new CPAP users will “practice” using their mask by wearing just the mask for brief periods during the day. This is done without connecting the mask to the CPAP machine, and can help you get used to the way the mask feels against your face. Consider doing this while watching TV or reading a book so you have something else to focus on besides the mask.
Features included in many modern CPAP machines can also help you get used to your treatment so that you use it throughout the night. Ramping features gradually increase air pressure after you put on your mask, only reaching the prescribed setting once you are asleep for improved comfort. CPAP humidifiers that increase moisture in the delivered air can also enhance comfort.
You can also make the most of your CPAP therapy by ensuring that you maximize the amount of time that you are actually asleep while you are in bed. This can help ensure that you get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep that all adults should get each night — and that you’ll sleep soundly and keep your CPAP mask on, too!
Start by establishing a consistent bedtime that you can follow each night. A set bedtime and wakeup time can essentially “train” your body to know when to go to bed and wake up so that you will feel tired or alert at the right times. Try to follow this sleep schedule every day, including on weekends!
You can make it easier to fall asleep quickly by picking the right bedtime activities. For example, a 10-minute yoga session or a warm shower can relax your body and give you a chance to clear your mind. Many people find it helpful to write in a journal to clear their thoughts before going to bed.
On the other hand, you should avoid using your phone right before bed, as the blue light can make it harder to fall asleep. Avoid eating and drinking before bed, as the digestive process can disrupt sleep as well.
Being a morning person doesn’t automatically mean you’ll have no trouble adjusting to CPAP therapy. By the same token, being a night owl doesn’t have to mean that you’ll struggle to make the most of CPAP treatment. By improving your bedtime habits and the way you use your CPAP machine, you can get quality treatment with any sleep schedule.
Of course, you’ll also need to replace parts and get a quality CPAP machine in the first place! While this can be expensive, Help Medical Supplies can make equipment and accessory purchases much more affordable. Discounted prices on CPAP machines, masks, and more can help you save hundreds off of MSRP, while also enjoying free shipping on orders of $99 and up and available financing on select purchases. Quality treatment at a great price will help you sleep better than ever!
]]>However, as research from the American College of Cardiology reveals, some key sleep habits can play a significant role in helping you live longer. And for those with sleep apnea, using a CPAP machine can directly influence their ability to get that life-lengthening quality sleep.
The American College of Cardiology study took participants and scored them based on five factors: “1) ideal sleep duration of seven to eight hours a night; 2) difficulty falling asleep no more than two times a week; 3) trouble staying asleep no more than two times a week; 4) not using any sleep medication; and 5) feeling well rested after waking up at least five days a week.”
These factors were judged to be “ideal” sleep behaviors, and participants were scored with either a one or zero based on whether they could answer “yes” or “no” to each question, with a total of 5 yeses indicating the highest sleep quality.
The researchers found significant differences in health outcomes between those who scored a five and those who scored a zero or one. On average, men with scores of five had a life expectancy 4.7 years longer than their low-scoring peers. Women had a 2.4 year longer life expectancy.
In addition, the report revealed that those who scored a five based on these sleep criteria “were 30% less likely to die for any reason, 21% less likely to die from cardiovascular disease, 19% less likely to die from cancer, and 40% less likely to die of causes other than heart disease or cancer.”
For those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, the potential of enjoying these benefits of quality sleep is drastically reduced. Sleep apnea can directly or indirectly influence all five factors that were judged to be necessary ingredients for quality sleep.
First is the fact that sleep apnea causes several breathing disruptions — sometimes dozens per hour — during sleep. As the airways get closed off, the body essentially has to wake itself back up for normal breathing to resume.
This causes individuals to have trouble staying asleep pretty much every night, while also causing them to feel poorly rested when they get up in the morning. With so many sleep disruptions over the course of the night, it also becomes much more difficult to achieve the “ideal sleep duration” of seven to eight hours. Even if you are in bed for that amount of time, the frequency of your sleep interruptions makes it unlikely that you’ll actually reach that threshold.
Sleep apnea often occurs in tandem with other sleep disorders, such as insomnia. Insomnia can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Quite often, individuals who struggle with these sleep disorders will turn to medication in an attempt to sleep better. But if sleep apnea isn’t addressed, even medication won’t help.
Without treating sleep apnea, it becomes all too easy to score a zero on those five sleep factors.
For individuals with sleep apnea, the first order of business for improving sleep quality is to get a CPAP machine. CPAP machines provide a steady flow of pressurized air to keep your airways from collapsing during sleep. This prevents the breathing disruptions that cause nighttime awakenings — which in itself is already enough to keep you from waking up multiple times per night, get a full seven to eight hours of sleep, and make you more likely to feel refreshed in the morning.
Adopting good sleep hygiene can also make it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep, and get enough hours of rest without relying on medication. Many of these habits are surprisingly simple.
For example, you can “train” your body to know when it is time to go to sleep and wake up by following a set sleep schedule each night. Going to bed and waking up at the same times and having a consistent bedtime routine will help your body learn when it is time for bed so that you can fall asleep faster. In general, you should try to avoid varying your bedtime by more than an hour on any given night.
Make sure that your pre-bedtime activities promote sleep. Relaxing activities like yoga, journaling, or a warm bath or shower can soothe your body and mind. On the other hand, consuming caffeinated beverages or using your smartphone can disrupt sleep. Healthy habits lead to better sleep!
Getting adequate rest each night doesn’t just leave you feeling refreshed and energized in the morning — it can ultimately help you live longer. For those with obstructive sleep apnea, using a CPAP machine can make all the difference in achieving the necessary sleep quality for healthier living.
Of course, CPAP equipment can be costly, particularly if you don’t have health insurance. With Help Medical Supplies, this doesn’t have to be a concern. Our discounted prices can help you save hundreds of dollars on top-tier CPAP machines from ResMed, 3B Medical, and other leading brands. Free shipping on most orders of $99 or more and available financing can further enhance the affordability of your purchase.
With a quality CPAP machine to control your sleep apnea symptoms, you can set yourself up for a longer, healthier life.
]]>But one area that is often overlooked is the position you sleep in during the night. If you sleep on your back, you could be making your sleep apnea symptoms worse — while sleeping on your side could actually reduce the number of breathing interruptions you experience.
Here’s what you should know about how sleeping on your back affects obstructive sleep apnea, and how you can start sleeping in a better position.
Of all the positions you could sleep in — your back, side, or stomach — back sleeping is generally considered to be the worst for those with obstructive sleep apnea.
As the Sleep Foundation reports, “In this position, gravity can cause the tongue to fall back in the mouth where it can obstruct the flow of air through the throat. As a result of its narrowing effect on the airway, back sleeping can also worsen snoring. […] Research shows that CSA-related breathing problems occur more frequently when you are on your back.”
In fact, the same report from the Sleep Foundation notes that for more than half of people with obstructive sleep apnea, symptoms become more severe when sleeping on their back. Gravity not only increases the likelihood of the tongue falling back and blocking the throat, but it can also pull the soft tissues of the neck down around the throat, increasing the likelihood of an obstruction.
In direct contrast to this, sleeping on your side is reported as being able to reduce snoring and the number of breathing disruptions you experience during the night. Much of this is attributed to the fact that gravity’s influence on the soft tissues in the mouth and throat makes them less likely to move into a position that will block the flow of air.
Sleeping on your back doesn’t have to be a completely bad thing for individuals with sleep apnea. Back sleeping can help reduce lower back pain, and sleeping on your back with your head elevated can also reduce the risk of acid reflux. Back sleeping with the head elevated to a 60 degree angle can also reduce the likelihood of gravity leading to breathing disruptions. Sleeping with a raised pillow or in an adjustable bed where you can raise the elevation of your head can improve sleep apnea severity, even without switching sleep positions.
However, for individuals with severe obstructive sleep apnea, it is often better to try to sleep on your side instead. But how can you control your sleep position while you are asleep? After all, even if you try to fall asleep on your side, you could still roll onto your back during sleep — and then you’d be in the same problematic position you were in before.
Fortunately, there are a variety of solutions that can help address the tendency to roll onto your back during sleep, ensuring that you remain in an optimal position for mitigating obstructive sleep apnea.
For example, many people will use a body pillow or a wedge pillow that helps them stay in a side sleeping position. Others may even wear a T-shirt with pockets. By wearing the shirt with the pockets in the back and then inserting a tennis ball, you create an instant source of discomfort if you try to roll onto your back — encouraging you to stick with a side sleeping position during sleep.
Positional sleep therapy devices also present an interesting potential solution. These products are generally strapped to the user’s chest. With some versions, the back of the “belt” may have a form of padding or cushion that makes it uncomfortable to roll onto one’s back. Other devices are triggered to deliver gentle vibrations when sleeping on the back is detected, with the vibrations serving as a trigger that encourages the sleeper to roll back onto their side.
In some cases, those with mild sleep apnea may be able to eliminate breathing interruptions entirely, simply by switching to a side sleeping position. Even for those whose breathing interruptions aren’t eliminated, side sleeping can reduce the number of interruptions experienced each hour.
While sleeping on your side instead of your back can certainly help improve obstructive sleep apnea symptoms, it won’t necessarily be enough to make your apnea “go away.” For many people, continuing to use a CPAP machine will be essential, regardless of which sleep position they find most comfortable.
Fortunately, purchasing a CPAP machine and accessories such as masks and tubing doesn’t have to become a back-breaking expense! With Help Medical Supplies, you can enjoy big discounts on top brands like ResMed and 3B Medical, as well as free shipping on most orders of $99 or more. Orders of $500 or more may also qualify for interest-free financing, allowing you to split your purchase into more manageable monthly payments.
With the right equipment and some extra focus on your sleep hygiene, you can improve your sleep quality so that each night helps you truly rest and recover.
]]>In fact, it might not be of much help at all. A recent study published in the January 2023 issue of Respiratory Care found that air leaks can even interfere with CPAP machine performance, keeping automatic CPAP machines from responding properly to sleep apnea incidents. And of course, leaks can keep CPAP patients from getting sufficient airflow to prevent sleep apnea incidents in the first place.
The good news is that the majority of the causes behind CPAP air leaks are easily identified and fixed. Most involve either the mask or tubing, and once you know what to look for, you can have confidence in your ability to keep leaks from becoming a recurring problem.
Your sleep position will have a direct impact on the type of mask that is best suited for your needs — and that will be the least likely to leak. A sleep specialist can help you determine which type of mask is best.
For example, stomach sleepers often press their face against their pillow in a way that makes it hard for full face masks to stay in place. The mask could easily come loose during the night, disrupting airflow. Because of this, it is generally recommended that stomach sleepers use small nasal pillows instead. Nasal masks and nasal pillows are also usually recommended for side sleepers and those who roll around a lot in their sleep.
Alternatively, a full face mask is best for those who often breathe through their mouth at night. If someone who breathes through their mouth uses a nasal mask, the air delivered by their CPAP machine would likely escape out their open mouth instead of getting to the lungs.
Even when you have the right type of mask for your sleep style, you could still experience air leaks if your mask is the wrong size. This is more common than you might think, as sizing guidelines can actually be quite different depending on the manufacturer you buy from.
In addition to the mask itself, you must also pay attention to the sizing of the mask cushions and the frame to ensure that it all conforms properly to your face. It’s always a good idea to double check your mask manufacturer’s sizing guidelines — or to even do a professional fitting — to ensure that you get the right size of mask for your face.
The mask itself isn’t the only thing that could cause air leak-related issues. Quite often, air leaks occur when the headgear (which holds your mask to your face) hasn’t been adjusted properly.
Headgear should be adjusted after you lie down in bed so that you can achieve a comfortable fit. By adjusting the headgear after you lay down, you ensure that it doesn’t get knocked loose as you get into bed.
The mask should be snug, but not too tight against your skin. When the mask is too loose, gaps could form between the mask cushions and your skin, allowing air to escape. On the other hand, a mask that is too tight could prevent mask cushions from inflating properly, contributing to leaks while also irritating your skin.
Even when you have the right mask setup and know how to fit your mask properly, it will eventually leak. That’s because the various parts that make up your CPAP mask system will wear down over time. The elastic for your headgear will get stretched and worn. Silicone mask cushions can get small tears and wear down, making it easier for air to leak out. Tubing can also develop small cracks that result in air leaks.
Following your manufacturer’s guidelines for replacing these and other components will help prevent air leaks from becoming a major problem. As a general guideline, most manufacturers only require that you replace the mask frame and tubing after three months. And the headgear will usually last for about six months. However mask cushions need to be replaced much more frequently — typically every two to four weeks.
You should also carefully follow mask cleaning guidelines to ensure that these components work like they should for their expected lifespan. Long-term exposure to dirt and oils from your skin can actually deteriorate silicone mask cushions, and significant buildup can make it harder for them to form and maintain an airtight seal. Cleaning the mask each day (and washing your face before using it) will prevent bacterial buildup and keep everything working like it should.
By taking care of your CPAP equipment and using it properly, you can avoid the air leaks that compromise the quality of your sleep apnea treatment. You’ll enjoy higher-quality sleep that leaves you feeling rested and rejuvenated, while also avoiding the negative side effects associated with poor sleep.
Of course, buying replacement CPAP equipment — even masks and tubing — can put quite a dent in your budget, especially if you don’t have health insurance. This is where Help Medical Supplies comes in. With discounted prices on CPAP masks and tubing, as well as fast and free shipping on orders of $99 or more, you can save big on replacement equipment from leading brands without lowering your quality of care.
]]>While these should provide ample motivation on their own for individuals to seek treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, researchers have uncovered yet another potential negative side effect of this condition. As it turns out, untreated sleep apnea could also negatively impact your bones and teeth. Here’s what you should know.
The research on obstructive sleep apnea’s potential effects on bone mineral density were led by the University of Buffalo, in an effort to see whether sleep apnea could potentially increase the risk of osteoporosis. When an individual has low bone mineral density, their bones become weaker and at greater risk of fracturing. Low bone mineral density can also negatively affect dental health, loosening teeth.
As part of the study, specialty X-rays were used to compare bone density between individuals with obstructive sleep apnea and those who did not suffer from the sleep disorder.
As the report from the University of Buffalo explains, “When controlling for age, sex and weight, the participants with obstructive sleep apnea had significantly lower bone-mineral density than the participants without the condition. Obstructive sleep apnea, which is characterized by difficulty breathing while asleep, can cause hypoxia (low levels of oxygen in the body), inflammation, oxidative stress and shortened breathing patterns. Each of these symptoms may have a chronic negative effect on bone metabolism and, ultimately, bone density.”
In short, the sleep interruptions associated with obstructive sleep apnea are believed to trigger a variety of issues that harm bone metabolism — which in the long term, will result in reduced bone density. While additional research with larger sample sizes still needs to be done to better understand the link between sleep apnea and bone density, this study serves as yet another indicator of just how big of an impact sleep can have on overall health.
Getting quality sleep has long been associated with improving overall well-being. Getting sufficient rest can protect the body’s immune system, insulin management, blood pressure, cognitive performance, and more. During sleep, the body takes care of vital tasks like muscle growth and tissue repair.
Because of this, using a CPAP machine is crucial for protecting the health of your bones and the rest of your body. By providing a steady flow of pressurized air, your CPAP machine can help prevent harmful sleep interruptions. Air pressure settings are determined by a sleep specialist to achieve the right balance of comfort and sleep apnea mitigation.
Additional sleep hygiene practices, such as creating a relaxing bedroom environment free of excess light and noise, establishing a consistent sleep schedule, and avoiding alcohol or caffeine before bedtime can also improve sleep quality.
Osteoporosis is not fully reversible. However, even if you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, there are still additional things you can do to rebuild your bones and minimize future bone mineral density loss.
Regardless of your sleep quality, there are several lifestyle changes that can make a significant difference for bone and tooth health. Diet is a major influence. Foods with high amounts of Vitamin D and calcium (particularly dairy products) can be especially helpful for strengthening your bones. Eating fruits and vegetables also provides a wide range of vitamins that can improve bone health. Omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to help prevent bone mineral loss. Some individuals may also benefit from dietary supplements or medications, though this should be done under the supervision of your physician.
Exercising regularly can strengthen your bones and help you sleep better. Exercises such as walking, weight lifting, and climbing stairs put added stress on the body, which actually causes it to build additional bone tissue. Exercising in the early afternoon can also help ensure that you are able to fall asleep faster and get enough deep sleep so that you feel well-rested in the morning.
Interestingly, smoking and alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk for osteoporosis. For individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, these substances can also worsen symptoms by causing irritation and inflammation, or by causing the muscles in the throat to become overly relaxed and more likely to collapse during sleep. Quitting smoking and alcohol consumption can improve both sleep quality and bone health.
While there are many factors that can affect your bone density, it is clear that individuals who experience obstructive sleep apnea may be at additional risk of low bone mineral density. Mitigating the effects of sleep apnea with the help of a CPAP machine can go a long way in improving sleep quality and preventing negative side effects.
At Help Medical Supplies, you can find high-quality CPAP machines and other supplies, such as masks, replacement filters and tubing, and more. Many of these products are available at significant discounts off of MSRP, allowing you to potentially save hundreds of dollars on your purchase. In addition, you can enjoy free shipping on all purchases of $99 or more.
With affordable CPAP equipment to keep your sleep apnea in check, you’ll be able to protect your bones and the rest of your body as you enjoy better sleep.
]]>However, the kind of water you use for your humidifier can be more important than you might think. As tempting as it may be to just use normal tap water instead of buying distilled water, new research shows that using tap water could actually be hazardous to your health.
The emphasis on not using tap water stems from recent research conducted by the CDC. As part of their research, the CDC examined the levels of potentially harmful microorganisms found in American tap water, while also surveying users of CPAP machines and other devices regarding their use of tap water.
American tap water is safe to drink because micoorganisms like NTM, Pseudomonas spp., and Legionella spp. are present in such low levels that any of these microbes that are consumed are killed by the body’s stomach acids. This ensures the water is safe for drinking and cooking. Despite this, researchers noted that these microbes do pose a threat when used with a CPAP humidifier or other devices that could cause them to be aerosolized and inhaled.
In fact, it is estimated that exposure to these waterborne pathogens contribute to approximately 120,000 hospitalizations and 7,000 deaths each year. When the microbes reach the body’s respiratory system (whether because you’re using a CPAP humidifier or for another reason), they can lead to severe pneumonia-like symptoms.
Even with these alarming facts, the CDC survey found that 24 percent of CPAP users would use tap water for their humidifier.
Because of the potential harm associated with using tap water, the CDC reemphasized the importance of using distilled or sanitized water for CPAP humidifiers and other similar devices.
Distilled water is created by boiling water to separate it from all contaminants. This includes bacteria, minerals, and any other impurities. Pure steam created by boiling the water is captured and cooled, returning to its liquid form. This “pure” water contains only H2O, and is ultimately sold as distilled water. This water is specifically labelled as “distilled water,” and is often marketed for use in CPAP machines and humidifiers.
What makes distilled water different from filtered water is that all impurities have been removed. Filtered water will usually remove most microbes and pathogens, but trace minerals (such as calcium and magnesium) will still remain. Though these minerals can improve the flavor of the water (and even make it healthier), this content can also contribute to mineral deposits in a CPAP water chamber.
Similarly, while the CDC recommended that CPAP users could boil water for up to five minutes to kill any microbes that might be present, this won’t eliminate the mineral content. Boiled water will reduce your risk of illness while using a CPAP machine, but buildup and deposits could still occur. This is especially true in areas with hard water. And, of course, you should always let water cool before you add it to the humidifier water chamber.
So, while boiled or filtered water will be safer, distilled water is ultimately the best option for your CPAP machine.
Of course, even when using distilled or sanitized water, the moisture within the humidifier water chamber can create the ideal breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Because of this, consistent cleaning of the water chamber should be a top priority to prevent potentially harmful buildup.
Both daily and weekly cleaning regimens will keep your humidifier clean and sanitary. For daily cleaning, disconnect the water chamber from the rest of the CPAP machine, then wash it with mild soap and warm water. Rinse the water chamber and allow it to air dry before reconnecting it to the CPAP machine. Do not use bleach or other strong cleaning detergents, as they could damage the water chamber or leave residue.
Once each week, soak the water chamber in a one-part water and one-part white vinegar mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. After soaking the water chamber, rinse it with warm water and let it air dry. Keep the water chamber out of direct sunlight while drying to prevent damage to the plastic.
Finally, keep in mind that the water chamber should generally be replaced every six months, per manufacturer guidelines. A water chamber that is cracked or discolored could promote additional bacteria growth, and should be replaced as soon as possible.
If you use a humidifier, you should use distilled water — or at the very least, boil your tap water to sanitize it. Doing so may feel like an “extra step” in using your CPAP machine, but it can keep you safe from serious illness and help you get the most of your sleep apnea treatment.
At Help Medical Supplies, you can purchase distilled water for CPAP machines in packs ranging from a single bottle to 31 bottles! You’ll also find replacement humidifier water chambers, many of which are available at discounted prices off of MSRP. With free shipping on all orders of $99 or more, there’s never been an easier way to manage your CPAP humidifier needs.
]]>However, even though buying a CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea certainly requires a larger initial purchase (as well as ongoing expenses in the future), it can actually be a net positive for your personal finances.
As it turns out, using a CPAP machine to prevent nighttime awakenings can significantly improve your quality of life and help reduce other healthcare expenses.
A recent article from Harvard Health Publishing highlights just one of the key ways in which using a CPAP machine can lower users’ medical costs: by reducing their risk for hospital readmissions.
Hospital readmissions are defined as when an individual has to return to the hospital for the same type of care they were previously discharged for within 30 to 60 days. The patient’s underlying health is often a key factor in whether or not they will need to be readmitted in such a short timespan.
The study described by Harvard involved an analysis of 1,301 patients who suffered from both heart disease and obstructive sleep apnea (in part because 60 percent of all people with heart disease also experience sleep apnea). The analysis compared hospital readmission rates for patients who used a CPAP machine to those who did not.
The key takeaway from the study: “Researchers found that heart disease patients with apnea who were hospitalized for heart problems were 60 percent less likely to end up back in the hospital within a month if they were diligent about managing their apnea.”
Hospital readmissions can be costly and time-consuming. In fact, studies indicate that the average cost for a hospital readmission is $15,200. Needless to say, that is much more than the cost of a CPAP machine. By following CPAP therapy guidelines, sleep apnea patients stand to avoid incurring additional medical and financial burdens.
While the findings of the previously mentioned study focused specifically on hospital readmission rates, this is far from the only way that using a CPAP machine can help lower medical costs.
Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to a wide range of serious health conditions that can result in significant medical expenses. Sleep apnea has been found to contribute to depression, memory loss and mental confusion, a weakened immune system, heart disease and high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, diabetes, and more.
The relationship between sleep quality and heart health is especially noteworthy. Sleep interruptions increase blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease. Left untreated, this can greatly increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure — particularly in individuals with more severe sleep apnea.
Each of these conditions can become a serious burden on your well-being, potentially requiring medication, surgery, physical or emotional therapy, and other treatment methods. The costs of treating these conditions can add up quickly. Without good health insurance coverage, you could find yourself facing significant medical bills.
The excess fatigue caused by sleep apnea can also increase your risk for getting in a serious accident. One study determined that individuals with untreated sleep apnea were 2.5 times more likely to be involved in a crash than other drivers. From falling asleep at the wheel to slowed reaction times and impaired judgement, a lack of sleep can put your safety at risk. If you are responsible for a serious accident, you could be held liable for covering property damage and medical bills for others who were involved.
Similarly, sleep apnea could put you at greater risk of being involved in an accident at work. Even with workers compensation programs, being out of work for an extended period of time due to an injury could negatively impact your finances.
When looking at your monthly budget, following your healthcare provider’s recommendations for CPAP therapy may not seem like it is having much of an impact on your budget. You’re not going to necessarily see yourself “saving” money each month. But the fact remains that by helping to prevent more severe medical issues that require more intensive and costly treatment, CPAP therapy will help you enjoy a more financially stable future.
While purchasing CPAP and BiPAP equipment can take a chunk out of your wallet, a little perspective can make all the difference. In reality, this therapy method is a long-term investment for your health and your finances. By preventing more serious health complications associated with sleep apnea, you can reduce your risk for hospital readmissions or the need for more expensive treatment options.
Of course, you can make your CPAP equipment even more affordable when you buy through Help Medical Supplies. We offer a wide selection of CPAP machines, masks, and other supplies, with many products available at significantly discounted prices off of MSRP. We also offer free shipping on all orders of $99 or more, as well as available financing through CareCredit on purchases of $500 and up.
With Help Medical Supplies on your side, you can lower the financial “burden” of starting CPAP therapy, while having the knowledge that you’ll be able to save significantly on your healthcare expenses in the future.
]]>While adults may no longer be so excited to wake up early and open presents, there is no denying that the holiday season can still result in getting less sleep than we normally would. Between parties and the stress of last-minute shopping and planning, there are plenty of things that can disrupt sleep. Unfortunately, that lack of sleep can leave you fatigued and grouchy — hardly the ideal mindset for enjoying the festivities with family and friends.
This is especially true if you already experience obstructive sleep apnea. Fortunately, by following a few “best practices” for getting more sleep during the holidays, this time can be truly merry and bright.
One big reason why people get stressed during the holidays is when they put off the items on their to-do list until the last minute. From shopping for gifts to preparing the holiday feast, letting these to-do’s pile up can leave you feeling overwhelmed as you rush to get everything done. Stress can leave you tossing and turning, unable to sleep at night.
The simple solution is to start taking care of your holiday to-do’s as early as possible. Make a list well in advance and try to work on each to-do when you are able. Of course, you can also ask family members to help lighten your load.
Even when you start planning early, it’s still normal to find yourself worrying about the next day’s activities and to-do’s during the holiday season. When this worrying happens at bedtime, you could be lying awake for hours.
You can avoid this common dilemma by scheduling in “worry time” or “planning time” at least two hours before bed. Even taking 15 minutes to write down what you need to do the next day and thinking through your plans can help ensure that your mind is free of these concerns by the time you slip under the covers.
Even though the outside weather can sometimes be “frightful,” this doesn’t mean you should spend all of winter indoors! In fact, getting outside during the winter can play an important role in helping you sleep better. Getting some natural light will keep your circadian rhythm on track so you can fall asleep faster at night. Sunlight can also improve your mood and reduce stress.
Exercising while you’re outside will improve sleep even more. Winter is full of fun opportunities for unique activities you can’t do any other time of year, like sledding, ice skating, and skiing. Of course, you can always go to the gym if you don’t want to spend too much time in the cold! Plenty of physical activity during the day will help you sleep better at night and avoid putting on extra weight from all those Christmas cookies.
Speaking of Christmas cookies, holiday parties can make it quite easy to overindulge in sugary, fatty foods. There’s nothing wrong with the occasional treat, but when you eat too much late at night, it can also disrupt your sleep. This is because your body will divert the energy it normally dedicates for sleep to digesting all the food you ate instead. So, the more you eat at those late-night holiday parties, the harder it will be to go to sleep.
Alcohol can be especially problematic for your sleep quality during the holidays. The way your body metabolizes alcohol tends to result in sleep disruptions after you fall asleep, leaving you worn out the following day. By limiting your consumption of alcohol and unhealthy snacks during all your holiday get-togethers, you won’t just sleep better — you’ll also avoid gaining extra weight that you’ll then be trying to get rid of in the new year!
If you’re not careful, all those holiday gatherings can also throw off your normal sleep schedule, causing you to stay up much later than normal. However, sleep experts recommend that you try to stick to your normal sleep routine as much as possible, even during the holidays. Whenever possible, you should try to go to stay within one hour of your normal bedtime and wakeup time.
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule helps keep your body’s circadian rhythm in check, so you won’t have as much trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Make sure your schedule allows for the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep so you’ll have plenty of energy for all your holiday plans!
In the middle of all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, giving yourself time to rest and get enough sleep can make a bigger difference than you might expect. You’ll have more energy and feel happier — perfect for all the festivities you have planned.
Of course, if you are also dealing with obstructive sleep apnea, you should make sure to use your CPAP machine each night so you can enjoy uninterrupted sleep. At Help Medical Supplies, we offer a wide selection of quality CPAP machines at discounted prices off of MSRP, so you can get the equipment you need, even if you don’t have insurance. Few things compare to the gift of quality sleep!
]]>In fact, research indicates that eating a healthy diet can have a tremendous impact on reducing the severity of your sleep apnea, even when those dietary changes don’t cause you to lose weight. Here’s what you should know.
Some of the latest research on diet and sleep apnea comes from Spain, where researchers divided a set of obese and overweight men into two groups — one that underwent some basic lifestyle interventions, and one that did not.
For the group that had lifestyle interventions, a key focus was a healthy diet. The goal wasn’t to restrict calories, but instead to eat more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and poultry, while also avoiding alcohol, overly processed food and meat, salty snacks, and sugary drinks. This group was also encouraged to increase their daily step count.
After a mere eight weeks, the “lifestyle changes” group had reduced their sleep apnea episodes by 51 percent and lost an average of 16 pounds. Fifteen percent of this group even had “complete remission” of their sleep apnea. After six months, study participants had maintained weight loss and lowered their blood pressure. At this time, 30 percent of the group eating healthy diet had remission of sleep apnea.
This isn’t the first study to show a healthy diet making such an impact for individuals with sleep apnea, either. Previous studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet and paleo diet helped reduce the severity of sleep apnea, even when study participants didn’t lose weight from following these diets.
When considering why diet can have such a big impact on obstructive sleep apnea, it’s only natural that your first thought would be that a healthy diet can help you shed extra pounds. After all, being overweight is a leading risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea. Having excess fatty tissue (especially around the neck) makes it more likely that the body’s airways will collapse during sleep.
Eating a healthy diet can make it easier to reduce body fat, especially when you are also improving your exercise habits. This in turn can reduce the frequency and severity of sleep apnea incidents.
However, some of these studies have found that weight loss isn’t necessarily needed to improve sleep apnea through a healthy diet. So how can healthy eating still help? It is believed that a diet high in unhealthy processed foods can lead to inflammation — which is also a contributor to sleep apnea.
By no longer eating processed foods and eating a healthy, balanced diet, the body is able to remove inflammatory substances. Even if one’s weight stays the same, reducing inflammation can have a powerful impact on mitigating sleep apnea.
Of course, a healthy diet won’t just help you manage sleep apnea. Eating healthy can lower the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, as well as provide more energy for your daily activities. And best of all, you don’t necessarily have to worry about counting calories to enjoy these health benefits!
While some participants in these recent healthy diet studies were able to have their sleep apnea go into remission, this wasn’t the case for everyone. Chances are good that to keep your sleep apnea in check, you will need to continue using a CPAP machine under the guidance of a sleep specialist. By providing a steady flow of pressurized air throughout the night, a CPAP machine will keep your airways open so you can feel well rested in the morning.
So what’s the best course of action? Work with a physician to make healthy changes to your diet and lifestyle. Then, work with your sleep specialist to track how these lifestyle changes are affecting your sleep apnea. Even if you don’t get to a point where you can discontinue use of your CPAP machine, you may find yourself able to adjust to a lower pressure setting for more comfortable therapy.
You should never just quit CPAP therapy because you’ve noticed other improvements to your health after switching to a healthy diet. Even mild sleep apnea, if left untreated, can result in chronic fatigue and increase your risk for health issues like resistant hypertension. Make dietary changes, but work closely with your sleep specialist to ensure that you are managing your sleep apnea appropriately.
With quality sleep and a healthier lifestyle in general, you will be in far better shape for the future!
Improving your diet can have a surprisingly big impact on sleep apnea. As studies show, eating healthy could even cause obstructive sleep apnea to subside altogether! Of course, not everyone is that lucky — and for most people a CPAP machine will remain a necessity for keeping sleep apnea in check.
Of course, the cost of CPAP machines and other supplies such as masks and replacement parts can add up quickly, especially if you don’t have insurance. This is where Help Medical Supplies comes in. With discounted prices on a wide range of CPAP machines, available financing on select purchases, and free shipping on all orders of $99 or more, getting the CPAP equipment you need has never been easier.
]]>When sleep apnea is a contributing factor, high blood pressure can actually develop into what is known as “resistant hypertension,” where blood pressure becomes difficult to manage with standard medication and treatment.
Because of this, it is essential to understand the relationship between these conditions and to take action to address them.
If you suffer from both sleep apnea and hypertension, you’re hardly alone. In fact, research has determined that 50 percent of individuals with sleep apnea also experience hypertension. It’s also worth noting that poor sleep in and of itself is considered a risk factor for hypertension, with sleep interruptions and getting fewer than 5 hours of sleep per night being noted issues.
The reason why individuals with obstructive sleep apnea are at a higher risk for hypertension is because of the interruptions to sleep that occur throughout the night. During normal sleep patterns, blood pressure gradually falls during sleep. Each time someone wakes up because of a sleep apnea episode, this process is disrupted.
Blood pressure increases when air pressure becomes blocked during a sleep apnea incident as blood oxygen levels also drop, while the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood increase. The body automatically increases blood pressure in response to the lack of oxygen. Blood pressure typically decreases after normal breathing resumes. But for someone with severe sleep apnea, their blood pressure may remain elevated all night due to frequent sleep interruptions.
Obstructive sleep apnea can also cause oxidative stress, whole-body inflammation, and metabolic disruptions, which are also known to contribute to hypertension. Perhaps even more problematic, the frequent disruptions to sleep can reduce the effectiveness of normal hypertension treatments — meaning that even if you are taking medications as recommended, they may not be able to effectively control your blood pressure.
For individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, a CPAP machine is generally considered to be the best method for improving sleep quality and preventing breathing interruptions. CPAP machines provide a steady flow of pressurized air at a prescribed level determined by a sleep specialist. With uninterrupted sleep, you won’t experience nighttime blood pressure spikes, and studies confirm that using a CPAP device can help individuals with sleep apnea better control — and even lower — their blood pressure.
To obtain a CPAP machine, you will need to consult with a sleep specialist, who will have you undergo a sleep study, either at home or in a special facility. During the sleep study, they can monitor your nighttime breathing to determine whether you have sleep apnea, and how severe it is. The severity of your sleep apnea and other sleep habits will be used to determine which pressure setting and type of mask will be best for you.
Of course, while a CPAP machine can control sleep apnea, it isn’t a cure-all for hypertension itself. Most individuals must make a variety of lifestyle changes to get their blood pressure back to a healthy level — and many of these changes can also improve sleep quality.
Perhaps the most obvious thing you can do to address hypertension is to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Being overweight or obese significantly increases your risk of developing both obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension. A balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can go a long way in improving heart health. If it has been some time since you exercised regularly, you should consult your physician before starting. They can help you develop a plan to ease into an exercise routine so that you can achieve your fitness or weight loss goals without risking injury.
If you smoke, make it a top priority to quit. High blood pressure and heart disease are just some of the major negative side effects of long-term smoking. Smoking also causes upper airway inflammation and irritation, which can make you more likely to experience severe obstructive sleep apnea. Quitting smoking won’t just reduce your risk for severe hypertension or sleep apnea — it also reduces your risk for other harmful consequences of smoking, such as lung cancer.
Finally, using a CPAP machine can ensure that medications like ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers are able to work effectively to control your blood pressure. Ask your doctor if changes to these prescriptions need to be made as a result of undergoing CPAP therapy.
Untreated sleep apnea and resistant hypertension can ultimately put you at greater risk for severe medical issues like heart attack, stroke, and heart disease. Because of this, few things are more important than helping your blood pressure return to a healthy level. By controlling your sleep apnea with a CPAP machine and taking other steps to improve your blood pressure, you can enjoy a dramatically higher quality of life.
However, if you don’t have health insurance, purchasing a CPAP machine can sometimes be easier said than done. Fortunately, Help Medical Supplies makes it easy to get the medical equipment you need at a price you can afford. We offer a wide range of CPAP machines and accessories at discounted prices off of MSRP. Free shipping is available on orders of $99 and up, and you can also qualify for interest-free financing on orders of $500 and more. The right equipment at the right price will help your sleep quality and your heart.
]]>In fact, some people struggle to continue with their CPAP therapy because they don’t like the feel of the pressurized air or their mask.
However, sticking it out during the adjustment period will allow using a CPAP machine to eventually become second nature to you, enabling you to get the quality rest you need each night. The following tips will help you get used to your new equipment and start your sleep apnea therapy right.
Just like any other device you might buy, your CPAP equipment will come with a user manual. This manual covers all the basics that will help you operate your equipment. This could include setup essentials like connecting your machine to the tubing and mask, how to adjust mask fit, how to clean your equipment, how to adjust various device settings, and so on. The user guide will also provide detailed information on how long you should replace key components like the mask, headgear, and tubing.
Following these guidelines will help you enjoy effective and more comfortable therapy as you get everything set up properly. Remember, user information is also generally available online nowadays, but you should always doublecheck and make sure you are reading instructions for the specific equipment that you are using.
Wearing a CPAP mask can be the most challenging part of beginning sleep apnea therapy. Some people find that practicing wearing the mask during the day with the mask disconnected from the tubing and CPAP machine is a good way to get used to it.
Practicing wearing your mask during the day can help you get used to how it feels so that you don’t get stressed out or start feeling claustrophobic when you put it on to go to sleep at night.
One key thing you’ll want to practice is how to adjust your headgear. Tighten the straps so that the mask fits snugly enough to prevent air leaks, but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable or irritates your skin. If your CPAP machine can perform a mask fit or air leak test, this can help you make any necessary adjustments.
Today’s CPAP machines feature a variety of settings designed to make sleep apnea therapy more comfortable. Some machines monitor your breathing patterns to deliver slightly lower air pressure levels when you exhale for more comfortable breathing. Ramping is another popular feature, which gradually increases delivered air pressure until you fall asleep.
One of the most important comfort features included in most modern CPAP machines is a humidifier. By adding moisture to the pressurized air provided by your CPAP machine, you can prevent sore throat, dry mouth, and other common side effects. Don’t be afraid to adjust your humidifier settings to find the right option for your needs. Just make sure the water tank is full before you try to use the humidifier!
If you’re struggling with discomfort or having a hard time adapting to your CPAP machine, your first call should be to the sleep specialist who prescribed it. As a trained sleep expert, they can help you with common troubleshooting issues, including how to ensure your mask fits properly.
Your sleep specialist can also work with you to determine when changes need to be made to your CPAP therapy. This could involve adjusting the air pressure settings on your device, or even changing the type of mask you wear. They use their knowledge of sleep apnea and your sleep habits (including data provided by your CPAP machine) to help you find the best solution.
Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor! They are the expert, and are ready to help as needed.
Your sleep specialist isn’t the only person who can help you get used to CPAP therapy. Free online forums specifically targeted at CPAP users are also available, where you can connect with others who are going through (or have gone through) the same adjustments you are. Other CPAP users can offer helpful tips and insights for how you can get used to your device.
Even when you don’t need advice, simply being able to connect with other people who understand what it’s like to start using a CPAP machine can provide a much-needed boost. Their encouragement and success stories can give you the motivation to stick with your therapy.
While using a CPAP mask and a CPAP machine will undoubtedly take some getting used to, there is no denying the difference this will make for your sleep quality. Not only will you eliminate constant fatigue, but you will also reduce your risk for more serious long-term side effects associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as hypertension, depression, and type 2 diabetes.
With Help Medical Supplies on your side, it becomes even easier to get the CPAP equipment that you need. We offer a wide range of CPAP machines and masks from leading brands, many of which are available at significant discounts off of MSRP. With free shipping on orders of $99 or more and high-quality refurbished CPAP machines, you can save even more as you get started with your treatment.
]]>As it turns out, how you care for your CPAP machine can also affect how likely you are to get sick. If you don’t properly care for your device, it could increase your risk of illness. On the other hand, using your CPAP machine like you should will help you sleep well and stay healthy this winter.
Here’s what you should know.
In general, you shouldn’t have to worry about getting sick from using your CPAP machine. However, if you don’t replace used water from the humidifier water chamber or clean your CPAP components, you run the risk of getting sick.
This is because when you use your humidifier, the moist air that is carried through the tubing and mask can leave behind water residue. The warm, humid environment is the ideal breeding ground for germs and bacteria. The same is true of the humidifier water chamber if the water isn’t changed out.
Germ and bacteria buildup becomes increasingly likely the older your equipment gets — especially if you keep using it past its recommended replacement date. Tiny cracks and pitting can make it harder to clean the mask or the water chamber, while also creating an area where bacteria can get trapped and grow more easily.
When this bacterial growth occurs, using your CPAP machine would cause the pressurized air to carry the bacteria directly to your breathing passages, making you more likely to develop an upper respiratory infection. These infections are typically similar in severity to a seasonal cold. Common symptoms include cough, runny nose, and sore throat.
However, in some cases, a respiratory infection could develop into something more serious, with symptoms like high fever, muscle aches, or shortness of breath. Symptoms such as chest pain and a cough or high fever that don’t get better after a few days require a call to your doctor.
Fortunately, preventing CPAP-related respiratory infections is quite simple. It ultimately comes down to two factors: cleaning equipment regularly, and replacing it when needed.
Each day, CPAP users should clean the mask, tubing, and water chamber. This can be done with warm water and mild dish soap. Wash each part, then rinse with clean water and allow them to air dry. Hang the tubing over a towel rack with both ends facing toward the ground so any trapped water can drain out. Once per week, sanitize these parts in a mixture of water and vinegar. If you have a detachable water chamber, you may be able to wash it in the dishwasher if manufacturer guidelines allow you to do so.
In addition to these daily and weekly cleaning guidelines, you should replace all water in the humidifier water chamber after each use of your CPAP machine. You should also use distilled water. This will greatly lower the risk of contamination.
When it comes to replacing equipment, carefully follow manufacturer guidelines. Corrosion of older parts makes them harder to clean, so they are more likely to trap bacteria. They are also more prone to air leaks. For example, CPAP masks are usually replaced after three months of use. The tubing and water chamber are typically replaced every six months.
Of course, there are still plenty of ways you could get sick, even if you are caring for your CPAP machine properly. If you get sick, you might wonder if it is still safe to use your CPAP machine, or if it could worsen your condition or cause you to get sick again later.
One thing to keep in mind is that rest is one of the most important factors in helping your body recover from illness. Using your CPAP machine helps prevent sleep interruptions, which can make you more vulnerable to illness in the first place. A full night of sleep will help you recover faster.
That being said, you should be extra diligent in cleaning your CPAP equipment when using it while sick. Consistent cleaning and sanitation will keep bacteria from getting trapped in a way that it could cause recurring illness.
If using your CPAP machine becomes uncomfortable while you are sick, or if you have any other concerns, contact your healthcare provider. They will offer personalized guidance on what you should do to stay healthy.
Following cleaning guidelines for your CPAP machine doesn’t guarantee that you won’t get sick this winter. After all, there’s no telling when your kids might come home from school with the flu! But by caring for your CPAP equipment as recommended, you can enjoy quality sleep and remain compliant with sleep apnea therapy.
Of course, part of this requires replacing worn components (and even the CPAP machine) at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer. If you don’t have quality insurance coverage, this can get expensive quickly — but this is where Help Medical Supplies comes in.
With a wide range of CPAP supplies, many available at major discounts off of MSRP, you can save money as you purchase needed replacement parts. With free shipping on orders of $89 and up, as well as available financing, your equipment purchases can be even more affordable so you can continue to enjoy quality sleep apnea treatment.
]]>Some of the most common issues that CPAP users experience are the direct result of having cold, dry air blown into their breathing passages all night. Dry pressurized air can result in dry mouth, congestion, chapped lips, nosebleeds, and other similar types of discomfort.
While such side effects could discourage someone from sticking with their CPAP therapy, there is a simple solution: using a humidifier to provide a more comfortable experience.
During normal breathing, your nose warms up the air that you breathe in so that it reaches your internal body temperature. This way, it will feel more comfortable for you to breathe, and the air won’t irritate your upper airways.
When using a CPAP machine, however, the pressurized air enters your breathing passages faster than your nose or mouth can warm it. Dry, cool air is more likely to irritate your breathing passages, making a humidifier an essential part of modern CPAP treatment. Humidifiers are designed to make up for your nose’s inability to heat and humidify this air so your treatment will be more comfortable — closer to natural breathing.
Today’s CPAP humidifiers use one of two methods to add moisture to the air you breathe during your treatment. One version uses a hot plate that is located under the device’s water chamber. When the hot plate is activated, it heats up the water, releasing moisture into the air, which is carried through the tubing and to your mask.
Other humidifiers are simpler, simply causing air to pass over a water chamber containing room-temperature water. This allows the air to accumulate moisture, which is delivered via tubing to your mask.
Because each person will likely have different needs and preferences for the air supplied by their humidifier, CPAP machines typically offer multiple humidifier settings. These settings can be used to adjust both humidity levels and water temperature. It is important to keep the air from getting too humid, as this could cause water condensation to form inside the tube — leading to a “rainout” that splashes your face with water while using your CPAP machine.
Heated tubing is another aspect of CPAP treatment that can improve comfort and enhance the effectiveness of your humidifier. In fact, some humidifier controls even come with designated options to adjust the tubing’s temperature.
Heated CPAP tubing can help address several potential issues related to using a humidifier. It can prevent condensation buildup, while also helping address issues where air feels dry, even when using a humidifier. This allows you to achieve the right level of comfort for your CPAP treatment and avoid uncomfortable side effects like nasal congestion and sore throat. Simply adjust the settings until you reach one that is most comfortable for your preferences.
Heated tubing can be especially useful for counteracting cold room temperatures during the winter. Air that passes through regular tubing will get cold before it reaches your mask. Heated tubing will either warm up that air or help keep it warm so the air that reaches you from your CPAP machine isn’t cold and uncomfortable.
Similar to other CPAP components, the water chamber should be cleaned every day after use. It can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap, then rinsed and air dried. Once per week, it is recommended that you disinfect the humidifier water chamber. Some water chambers can actually be washed in the dishwasher, but others should be hand washed using a solution of one part vinegar and three parts water. Rinse the water chamber when you’re done to prevent soap residue buildup. The water chamber should be completely dry before you refill it.
The humidifier water chamber should typically be replaced every six months. However, you should regularly inspect the plastic for cracks or discoloration. A damaged water chamber should be replaced to prevent water leaks and bacterial buildup inside the cracks.
If your humidifier has a heating element, it will also need to be cleaned (after it has completely cooled off, of course). Wipe it clean with a damp cloth and let it air dry before putting the water chamber back in place.
Finally, you can care for heated tubing just as you would standard CPAP tubing. Wash the tubing with mild dish soap and warm water, both inside and out. Then rinse it with clean water. Hang it over a towel rack so both ends of the tubing face down to air dry. This way, any water inside the tubing will drain out instead of getting trapped inside.
By using a CPAP humidifier with your CPAP or BiPAP machine, you will be able to enjoy more comfortable sleep apnea treatment and higher-quality sleep.
At Help Medical Supplies, we sell CPAP machines that include built-in humidifiers, such as the ResMed AirSense 10. You’ll also find replacement water chambers and other replacement products to help you keep your entire sleep apnea treatment system in top shape. With discounts off of MSRP on many of these products and free shipping on orders $89 and up, you’ll be able to get the quality equipment you need at a price you can afford.
]]>While the current recall is voluntary, it still has the potential to affect millions of people who use these devices for their sleep apnea therapy. As one of the industry’s biggest brands, here is what you should be aware of if you’ve purchased a Philips Respironics CPAP mask through Help Medical Supplies.
The recall affects five types of CPAP masks, which are being recalled because of their use of magnetic clips. According to the manufacturer, “As of September 2022, Philips Respironics has received 16 reports of patients suggesting that the mask magnets may have impacted their medical devices including pacemaker interference, pacemaker failure leading to replacement, need of shunt adjustment, resetting of automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (AICD), seizures, defibrillator shutting off periodically, arrhythmia, irregular blood pressure, change in heartbeats, and cognitive issues.”
The masks included in the recall are the Amara View Full Face Mask, the DreamWisp Nasal Mask, the DreamWear Full Face Mask, the Wisp Nasal Mask (this also includes the Wisp Youth Nasal Mask), and the Therapy Mask 3100 NC/SP.
The magnetic clips have been determined to have the potential to cause severe injury or even death to users or people around them if those individuals have an implanted medical device or implanted metallic object. While no deaths have been reported, the potential risk has been acknowledged as part of the recall warning.
The list of medical devices that could be negatively impacted by the magnetic clips is wide ranging, and includes pacemakers, metallic stents, neurostimulators, aneurysm clips, ocular implants, cochlear implants, metallic gastrointestinal clips, and more.
While the scope of the recall may seem alarming, it is important to distinguish that this is a voluntary recall. The masks pose no danger to individuals who don’t have a metallic implanted device themselves. If no one in your household has a device that could be negatively impacted by the clips, you can continue to use the mask as normal.
Because of this, Philips Respironics plans to continue producing and selling the affected masks. However, new masks will include updated labels and warning guidance so that individuals are aware of the potential risk. Devices listed in the recall are contraindicated for use of these masks — meaning that if you or a household member uses one of those medical devices, you should stop using these masks.
The manufacturer also advises that the CPAP masks be kept at least six inches away from other medical implants and devices to prevent interference from the clip’s magnetic field.
If you or a household member could be harmed by the magnetic clips, consult with your doctor. They will help you determine whether you should stop use of the mask immediately, or if it’s okay to continue using it until you can purchase a replacement.
As a Healthline article covering the recall explains, “In cases of moderate to severe sleep apnea, lack of therapy is more dangerous and can result in the return of excessive daytime sleepiness, resulting in accidents, heart rhythm disturbances, elevation in blood pressure and mood issues. […] The patients are asked to contact their sleep physician who reviews the original sleep study to assess the severity, determine if there is a sleep position which is safer, repeat a home study with a positioning cushion and in some cases use supplemental oxygen.”
If you own one of the affected masks and have questions about the recall, Philips Respironics recommends that you contact their customer service department at 1-800-345-6443, which is available from 8:30 AM to 8 PM EST, Monday through Friday. Individuals who have experienced any medical issues related to the mask are also encouraged to report the incident to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or online.
Philips Respironic’s recall statement says that it plans to help patients who need to replace their mask obtain one that does not use magnetic clips. That being said, there are over 17 million masks that have been affected by this recall. Backorders and the sheer volume of the recall could cause it to be quite some time before Philips can provide a replacement mask directly.
In this scenario, the best solution is to contact both Philips Respironics and your doctor. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision about whether it is safe for you to continue using the recalled mask until a replacement arrives. Depending on your situation, you may need to order a replacement from Help Medical Supplies.
After you get a replacement, you should dispose of the old mask.
If you need to replace your CPAP mask immediately as a result of this current recall, finding a suitable replacement shouldn’t become a major source of stress. Help Medical Supplies can make it easy.
With a wide range of CPAP masks available at discounted prices off of MSRP, you can find a suitable replacement at a price you can afford. Fast and free shipping is available for all orders $89 and up, so you can get a new mask that will allow you to get the quality sleep you need.
]]>When you stop to think about it, it isn’t all that surprising. Most people feel grouchy and irritable after a night when they didn’t sleep well. You might be more short-tempered, and quicker to lash out over things that normally aren’t as big of a deal to you.
While most people can feel “back to normal” after getting a good night’s sleep, this isn’t necessarily an option for people with untreated sleep apnea. Because obstructive sleep apnea causes dozens of interruptions to sleep each hour of the night, you are constantly getting awakened. As a result, your body doesn’t enter REM or deep sleep, which are the periods when your body processes emotions and recovers physically after the events of the day.
As a result, untreated sleep apnea won’t just make you tired. It could cause fatigue-related emotional issues to become a serious, ongoing problem that disrupts your life.
Even a single night of poor sleep can make you irritable and short-tempered — so it’s easy to see how this problem would escalate after several nights of poor sleep. This can make it harder to handle the stresses of an average day, even making you more likely to start arguments or “blow up” because of a relatively minor issue. You might say or do things that hurt your relationships, all because of fatigue interfering with your judgement and emotions.
On the opposite side of this spectrum, good sleep has been found to help improve relationships with others by making us more empathetic and more willing to approach others, while also helping us be less aggressive, angry, and prejudiced.
In other words, getting a good night’s rest can improve your social behaviors simply by helping you be in a better emotional state. You’ll be far less likely to do something you’ll regret later when you can think clearly and stay in control of your emotions.
Poor sleep caused by sleep apnea doesn’t just make you more irritable and angry — it can also make you depressed. Studies have linked sleep apnea with depression and anxiety, as well as other major mood disorders. This can occur because poor sleep alters your brain chemicals in a way that makes it harder to deal with stress, making you more likely to experience anxiety and other emotional issues.
Unfortunately, getting overwhelmed by stress can further interfere with your sleep, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. And as you continue to sleep poorly, your stress and anxiety can become even worse. The two problems essentially “grow” together.
Left unchecked, depression and anxiety can significantly interfere with your health and well-being. Mood disorders can lead to social withdrawal, loss of enthusiasm for your favorite activities, and struggles with relationships, work, and more. These emotional disorders can also negatively affect your physical health.
Volunteering and serving others has been found to improve mental health — so when you help others, you help yourself, too!
However, a lack of sleep can make you less able to enjoy the benefits of volunteering. In an article for Psychology Today, Dustin W. Ballard MD, MBE highlights these study results: “On an individual level, sleep deprivation for a single night was associated with decreased willingness to help other people (both strangers and familiars) and decreased activation of the social cognition network on functional MRI imaging. And on a population level, from 2001 to 2016, the investigators observed a significant drop (approximately 10 percent) in the amount of online charitable donations in the week after ‘spring forward’ daylight savings time that was not present in states that do not have daylight savings or in the week following ‘fall back.’”
Becoming more selfish because you haven’t slept well doesn’t just mean you’re less likely to give to charity. It can also make you less empathetic to the needs of friends and family members. When those closest to you can’t depend on you when they need help, the quality of your relationships will suffer.
You never know what a new day might bring — and quite often, a lot of what happens will be completely out of your control. If you aren’t getting enough sleep, you may not be mentally and emotionally equipped to handle it. This is why using a CPAP machine to mitigate your sleep apnea is so important.
The steady flow of pressurized air from a CPAP machine keeps your airways from closing off during the night, preventing those interruptions that keep you from getting the quality sleep you need. By getting enough rest, you’ll wake up feeling truly refreshed and with the mental and emotional capacity to handle whatever the day has in store. You will treat others better, and feel better about yourself.
At Help Medical Supplies, you’ll find a wide range of high-quality CPAP machines from leading brands like ResMed, 3B Medical and Fisher & Paykel. Many of these devices are available at significant discounts off of MSRP, helping you save big on these medical devices. With free shipping and available financing, your CPAP machine becomes even more affordable, and you can get the quality sleep you need to stay in a good mood.
]]>That being said, there are several different types of CPAP masks — and not all masks are created equal. Different fits and even your own sleep habits can have a major influence on which type of mask will work best for your needs.
Full face masks are one of the most popular types of masks, but are they right for you? Here are some key things you should be aware of as you make your decision.
Full face masks go over both the mouth and nose, making them the largest type of CPAP mask. By covering more of the face, the mask is able to trap pressurized air inside, where the user can then inhale it through the nose or mouth. Other masks only deliver airflow directly to the nose.
Full face masks use adjustable side straps and head gear to stay in place. To ensure a proper fit, users should adjust the mask when they first put it on, and then readjust as needed after they lay down. As with other CPAP masks, a full face mask should be snug, yet comfortable. It shouldn’t feel overly tight against the skin.
There are several situations when a full face mask is more likely to be recommended by a sleep specialist.
It should come as no surprise that the most common need for using a full face mask is for individuals who breathe through their mouth during sleep. After all, a nasal mask that only covers the nose won’t be of much use if you regularly breathe through your mouth. This is often the case for people who have allergies or other medical issues that result in frequent nasal congestion.
Though it may sound counterintuitive, full face masks are often recommended for people who experience feelings of claustrophobia while wearing a CPAP mask. This is because the full face mask rests on the outer part of the face, rather than the nose and upper lip, which can help the mask feel less constrictive.
Full face masks can also deliver more comfortable therapy for individuals whose sleep apnea requires a high air pressure setting. Thanks to its wider surface area, a full face mask keeps pressurized air from being directly sent into the breathing passages. This makes the treatment more comfortable than it would be if the high-pressure air was delivered directly to the nostrils using nasal pillows.
Finally, many people who sleep on their backs prefer full face masks because they provide a good seal. Because full face masks use more support straps, they can also be a good option for restless sleepers.
While full face masks can work well for many people, they do have a few potential drawbacks that could keep them from being a good option for you.
Because of their larger size, full face masks are naturally heavier than nasal masks or nasal pillows. The added weight could be uncomfortable for some people. In addition, the larger surface area means that if the mask isn’t adjusted properly, it will be more likely to have air leaks. Leaks are especially common around the bridge of the nose, which could cause air to go onto the eyes, resulting in dryness and irritation.
Full face masks generally aren’t recommended for men with beards due to the potential for air leaks. Facial hair can keep the mask from forming an airtight seal against the skin, making such leaks more likely. Nasal pillows are generally recommended instead.
Full face masks can also be uncomfortable for people who sleep on their side or stomach. The bulk of the mask makes it more likely to press uncomfortably against the pillow and potentially get displaced, making air leaks more likely. People who prefer to put their CPAP mask on before they go to sleep may also not like how a full face mask can disrupt their view while trying to read or watch TV.
If you’re not sure whether a full face mask is right for you, consult with a sleep specialist. They can help you determine the right option based on factors like your sleep habits, prescribed CPAP setting, and face shape. And if your current mask seems uncomfortable, they can help you find a more suitable alternative.
Full face masks can be an excellent choice for your sleep apnea therapy — but they’re not for everyone. By understanding the pros and cons of this mask style and consulting with a sleep specialist, you can determine which mask style will work best for you.
Of course, buying a CPAP mask on top of all your other CPAP supplies can become a bit of a financial burden, particularly if you don’t have health insurance coverage. This is where Help Medical Supplies can make a difference. We offer discounted prices on a wide range of CPAP masks, as well as free shipping on all orders of $89 or more.
Whether you’re ordering a mask to go with a new CPAP machine or need a replacement for aging equipment, you can expect timely delivery and quality service so you can enjoy uninterrupted sleep.
]]>One of the most common side effects of using a CPAP machine is one you might not expect: dry eyes.
Fortunately, by understanding what causes dry eyes, as well as how to address this issue, you can enjoy the quality sleep you need without negatively affecting your eyes.
Dry eyes can have a variety of symptoms, though the most common are a dry, scratchy sensation. The eyes may look red and irritated. A stinging or burning feeling is also common.
In addition to this general discomfort, some people also experience stringy mucus around their eyes, or like they have something stuck in their eyes. Dry eyes can also make it harder to wear contact lenses due to increased sensitivity.
People with dry eyes may also be more sensitive to light, and can even experience blurry vision. These side effects can make driving at night particularly difficult.
It’s not the CPAP machine itself that causes dry eyes — rather, it is the CPAP mask that could be to blame.
If your mask is not fitted properly to your face, an air leak is likely to occur. These leaks are especially common around the bridge of the nose, and as a result, the air that escapes from the mask is most likely going to go over your eyes. If you have a high CPAP pressure setting, a significant amount of air could be flowing over the eyes throughout the night and drying them out.
While dry eye symptoms that begin after you start using a CPAP machine are likely linked to a mask leak, this isn’t the only possible culprit.
Your room and your health can also contribute to dry eyes, regardless of the quality of your CPAP mask. For example, blowing air from a ceiling fan or air vent can also contribute to dry eyes, especially if your indoor air is dry. Airborne allergens, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen can also cause the eyes to become dry and irritated.
Several underlying health conditions can also contribute to dry eyes. Diabetes and hypertension, which are also commonly linked to sleep apnea, can reduce the body’s tear production and increase the likelihood of developing dry eyes.
If you already experience these issues, even a minor air leak from your CPAP mask can cause major irritation.
If you’ve determined that a leaking CPAP mask is to blame for your dry eyes, the first order of business is to ensure that you are actually wearing the mask properly. CPAP masks should fit snugly (though not too tight) against the face to prevent leaks. You will typically need to adjust the straps after lying down to get a proper fit.
You should also clean the CPAP mask components regularly, and replace them based on the manufacturer’s schedule to prevent deterioration that could contribute to leaks. Don’t forget about the mask straps that help hold the mask in place! You can also reduce the risk of leaks by avoiding the use of moisturizers on the part of the face where you use the mask.
If these steps don’t help, consult with a sleep specialist. They can help you determine if you are using the wrong size mask, or if a different type of mask would be better suited for your needs. For example, men with beards often experience leaks when using a full face mask because their facial hair prevents the formation of an airtight seal. In this case, switching to nasal pillows could make all the difference.
For individuals with chronic dry eye, there are several additional steps that may need to be taken. For example, you could use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity (a CPAP humidifier can also make your sleep apnea treatment more comfortable). The use of eye drops or artificial tears can help relieve symptoms, while adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can improve eye health.
If you work at a computer, you may need to practice blinking more frequently. You should also take regular breaks from the screen. Every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break where you focus on an object at least 20 feet away. Then, each hour, take a longer break away from the screen. These simple steps can help prevent eye strain and dry eye symptoms.
While a CPAP machine can help you sleep better, the right (or wrong) CPAP mask will go a long way in determining the effectiveness of your treatment — including whether or not you experience dry eyes.
At Help Medical Supplies, we make it easy to find the right CPAP machines and masks for your treatment needs. With a wide selection of full face masks, nasal masks, and nasal pillows, you’ll have no trouble finding an option that works well for your face shape and sleep position.
Better yet, many of these masks are available at discounted prices off of MSRP. Combined with free shipping on all orders of $89 or more and available financing on purchases of $500 and up, and it’s never been easier to get a good night’s sleep without breaking the bank.
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