The use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pillows greatly improves CPAP treatment therapy. The CPAP pillow was specially made and designed to provide comfort to the user. It is also able to address basic problems with a CPAP mask. Sleep apnea sufferers would find this type of cushion very helpful. It is non-invasive and has a reasonable cost.
Less discomfort with a CPAP pillow
The most common complaint of CPAP users if great discomfort during nightly CPAP therapy. This discomfort is usually caused by the CPAP mask. When the patient lies down on an ordinary pillow, the face mask is pressed on the face making the user feel uncomfortable. The patient always has to keep adjusting the mask. The best thing about CPAP pillows is that it accommodates the mask and the tubes. It has special grooves and contours. It fits the mask in the grooves while the head rests comfortably on the cushion. This significantly lessens the pressure of the mask on the patient's face.
No more leaks
The mask often moves out of place when the patient shifts sleeping position. When the face mask is not properly in place, the right amount of air pressure is not received by the patient. Leaks can also dry the skin and create noise the bothers the patient and bed partner. All these factors lessen the quality of sleep and makes therapy treatment less effective.
CPAP pillows prevent redness and sores
It is best to keep the tubes away from the patient while sleeping. This prevents the user from rolling over it or leaning on it. If this happens, the air pressure is compromised causing redness and sores on the patient's face. A CPAP pillow helps angle the tubes away to prevent this from happening.
CPAP pillow helps improve breathing
Breathing will be more continuous if the respiratory tract is properly aligned. This means that the air is able to pass through the air passages smoothly. The problem is, most people sleep in a position that narrows the air passages. The CPAP pillow helps align the person's head, neck and upper body in an angle that allows for proper breathing. Sleeping on the side is most recommended for persons with sleep apnea. It is the most ideal sleeping position as it opens up the airways. That is why most CPAP pillows are designed for side sleepers. However there are also pillows specially designed for back and belly sleepers. Some even have grooves for the ears so that the ear won't be too compressed during prolonged sleeping. Some pillows have underside grooves allowing the patient to insert an arm. Most of the time, when we sleep on the side, the blood circulation on the arm gets cut off. The underside grooves prevent this from happening. It also keeps the patient from rolling on his back and maintains the side sleeping position.
How to choose a CPAP pillow
CPAP pillows are usually made from soft polyester and foam. It should be firm but at the same time comfortable and soft. Choose one that is resilient. This means that even if you crush it with your weight, it will just bounce back to its original shape. Always look for a pillow that is clinically tested and certified. It should also be hypoallergenic and check for the warranty. Some pillows have warranties of up to five years. As to be expected, this type of pillow will cost you more than the ordinary pillows. Check with your health insurance if they can cover the cost of this medical pillow.
