How to get used to a CPAP Mask
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Intus Healthcare’s writers, customer service team, and sleep experts review and ensure this information is accurate.
Last updated on July 16th, 2024 at 09:54 am
Adjusting to your CPAP mask
We cannot stress enough how important your mask is to the success of your treatment, but we also know about that initial CPAP mask anxiety, and we’re here to help.
Let’s remember that CPAP therapy is the gold standard treatment method which has been developed and used for over 40 years. It has been approved by the NHS and many other medical bodies worldwide and is currently helping millions of people treat their OSA.
With that in mind, we should start with the statement you must choose the right mask to help you feel the full benefits of therapy. This article will provide tips to help you get accustomed to your mask so you can wake up feeling refreshed from quality sleep.
Considerations when choosing the right CPAP Mask:
1: How do you breathe?
2: How do you sleep?
3: What size CPAP mask do you need?
4: Personal preference and comfort.
Your sleep study, doctor or our advisers can help answer the first considerations, but your personal preference and comfort are subjective.
Your mask is a vital component of your therapy. It delivers air pressure to your airways, enabling them to remain open.
Table of Contents
Adjust the mask to fit you comfortably
Adjust your mask so that it fits you comfortably. Most masks feature adjustable straps, clips or velcro tabs to make finding a good fit simple. When adjusted correctly, the mask should not leak, helping to prevent any dryness and discomfort.
Gradually get used to wearing the mask
Wearing a CPAP mask should become a habit. This is why, in the beginning, you can benefit from wearing it in stages to help you get used to it. You will become used to the presence of the mask over time. Here are some tips:
- In the beginning, you can benefit from wearing it at various times throughout the day (such as when reading, watching television or simply relaxing).
- Wear the mask briefly while awake to get used to the feeling. Gradually increase the duration.
- While you are awake, practice breathing with the mask on. This can help you become accustomed to the airflow.
Relaxation techniques
Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation before bed to reduce anxiety about wearing the mask. Not only will these allow you to become acclimated to your mask, but they are also excellent if you hope to increase your lung capacity.
Utilise a humidifier
Another common issue associated with CPAP masks is that the airflow can be too dry. This may lead to a sore throat or a runny nose. The good news is that such a situation can be easily corrected with the help of a humidifier. Many units offer this as a standard feature and others offer it as an additional extra.
Addressing allergies
Although mask-related allergies are quite rare, they are still worth mentioning. These situations normally occur from the presence of latex within the masks themselves. However, we should note that nearly all modern masks are made from silicone.
If you notice bruising, red marks, swelling or irritation, consult with a specialist. In the majority of cases, these symptoms are caused by a mask that has not been properly cleaned. This is why it is important to disinfect and clean your mask regularly.
If you regularly experience nasal congestion, a nasal irrigator can help. Most irrigators use saline salt water to flush out the bacteria so you can breathe comfortably.
Mask Liners
SinuPulse Elite Nasal Irrigator
Practice good sleep hygiene
Practising good sleeping habits and getting yourself into a routine benefits your sleep. Some sleep hygiene tips to help your therapy include:
- Not consuming alcohol a few hours before you sleep as these are stimulants which can make it harder to fall asleep.
- Creating a good sleep environment that relaxes you.
- Limiting screen time before bed as the blue light can make it harder to fall asleep.
Consider trimming your facial hair
Although there are masks more appropriate for facial hair not all styles provide enough space. A beard or moustache can make it harder to obtain an airtight seal between the mask and your face. This actually detracts from the entire purpose of the mask. So, a slight trim could be in order. You may find a nasal mask more suitable if you primarily breathe through your nose at night.
Clean your mask
Regularly cleaning your mask components helps maintain the mask’s sterility and longevity and also prevents you from becoming ill due to bacteria. You can use warm, soapy water to effectively clean your supplies and the SoClean 2 to sanitise your equipment effectively.
CPAP Soap
CPAP Hose Brush
Determine if your machine has a “Ramp” feature
Some people may not be able to tolerate the increased amount of air pressure that is emitted from the unit. This is when a “ramp” option can be useful. As opposed to activating with a high level of pressure, the machine will begin with a lighter airflow that increases over time. This provides your body with a way to become accustomed to the pressure. The ramp feature can also be used while you are falling asleep.
Become acclimated to its noise
Some individuals need to sleep in absolute silence. Unfortunately, this is not possible when using a CPAP machine. Most units have been designed to run as quietly as possible, however they do still make a noise.
If the noise is still bothersome, check to see if the air filter needs to be changed or speak with your sleep specialist in order to determine if another problem may be present. You could also choose to sleep with earplugs or employ a device that emits white noise, such as a common fan.
Summary
The machine will help to alleviate even the most stubborn symptoms associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Still, it can be difficult to become used to such units in the beginning. All of the advice mentioned above will come in handy if you are having problems falling asleep. It is nonetheless wise to speak with your physician to determine if there are any other methods or strategies at your disposal.
If you need any help or advice, please contact us.
