FAQs
for CPAP/BPAP Users
Reminder:
Always bring your continuous
positive airway pressure (CPAP)/ bilevel
positive airway pressure ventilation (BPAP)
machine or mask to the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center
so that we may verify your pressure settings and fit your mask if
you are having problems.
During
my sleep study, I am not sure that I will be able to sleep because
of the strange environment and monitoring equipment. Can you help?
Despite the environment
and equipment, the majority of patients do fall asleep in the sleep
lab, and we are able to collect enough data to determine if sleep
disordered breathing is present.
How
often should I replace my equipment's masks, headgear, and tubing?
Masks, headgear,
and tubings should be replaced every six months. At that time, masks
and headgear will begin to show wear and lose elasticity, and as
a result, the mask may begin to leak because it doesn't fit as well
as it should. Leaking means that you are not getting the therapy
you need. Replace your equipment regularly, and check with your
insurance carrier. Most insurance plans cover mask and headgear
replacement every six months.
How
often should I inspect and replace my equipment's filters?
Many CPAP and BPAP units have filters that need to be inspected
weekly and replaced when they appear dirty.
How
do I clean my humidifier?
And how often should I do this?
Change the water in your humidifier daily. Only use distilled
water in the unit. Tap water contains particles that may leave
mineral deposits and affect the equipment.
How
do I clean my mask?
And how often should I do this?
Clean your mask every other day in a solution of mild liquid dish
soap and distilled water that is not too sudsy. Rinse it thoroughly,
and allow the mask to air dry.
How
do I clean my tubings?
And how often should I do this?
Clean your hoses and tubings every week in a mild liquid dish soap
and distilled water solution. Rinse them thoroughly, and allow them
to air dry.
How
do I clean my headgear?
And how often should I do this?
Hand
wash your headgear in laundry detergent once a month or as needed.
Rinse it well, and allow it to line dry.
What precautions should I take when I travel?
Use the travel
case that came with your machine. When traveling by car, keep your
machine in the glove compartment rather than in the trunk to avoid
temperature extremes.
When traveling
by air, always carry your CPAP/BPAP with you on the aircraft. Do
NOT check it in baggage. We will be happy to provide you with a
letter, signed by your doctor, explaining what your CPAP/BPAP device
is and advising the airline that it should be carried on board the
aircraft.
You should take
an extension cord along with you if you are staying in a hotel.
Outlets may not be conveniently located next to the bed. When
traveling to a foreign country, a plug adapter may be required to
make your power cord compatible with the power outlets of that country.
What
should I do when I have nasal congestion?
Your nasal congestion may be caused by a previous sinus
condition, a dry airway, or the positive pressure from your equipment.
To ease your discomfort, try adding
moisture to the air by using a humidifier, and keep your nasal passages
moist by using an over-the-counter nasal saline spray. To open your
nasal passages, you may use an over-the-counter antihistamine or
nasal steroids.
What
should I do when I have nasal/throat dryness?
If you are suffering from nasal/throat dryness, you are probably
not breathing enough moist air. To remedy this problem, you should
try adding a humidifier to your room. If you are already using one,
you may consider upgrading your humidifier to a heated model so
that the air becomes warm as well as moist.
What
should I do when I have facial soreness and pressure markings on
my face?
Facial soreness and pressure marks on your face typically mean that
your mask is too tight. To help ease the fit, make sure your CPAP
or BPAP is at maximum pressure when you are putting on your mask
at night. Tighten it until the mask does not leak, but no further.
If you are still uncomfortable, call your home care company or the
UPMC Center for Sleep Medicine for a mask refit. Always bring your
machine and mask with you to the Center so that we may verify your
pressure settings and mask fit.
What
should I do when I have excessive gas and abdominal bloating after
using CPAP or BPAP?
You may be swallowing air while using your equipment. To eliminate
this problem, elevate the head of your bed. You may also try using
simethicone, a drug that is available over-the-counter, at bedtime.
If the problem persists, contact the UPMC
Sleep Medicine Center.
What
should I do when the pressure feels too high?
It may take time for you to become familiar with the pressure of
your CPAP or BPAP unit, or a pressure change may be necessary. Contact
the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center, and always bring your machine
and mask with you to center so that we may verify your pressure
settings and mask fit.
What
should I do when the pressure feels too low?
Contact
the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center or your home health care provider
to check your machine. Always bring your machine and mask with you
to the Center so that we may verify your pressure settings and mask
fit.
Is sleep
medicine covered by insurance?
Yes. We accept many types of insurance. You should check
with your home health care provider to ensure that your CPAP/BPAP
equipment is also covered.
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