subject: Cpap Therapy And The Cold Season: Preventative Maintenance And Cpap Headgear [print this page] As any compliant CPAP sleep therapy user will tell you, its impossible to go without your CPAP machine for even one day. CPAP patients become so accustomed to their CPAP machine that to sleep without is like sleeping without a pillow just cant do it. A question that arises during allergy and cold season is how can a CPAP user experience effective sleep therapy while suffering from a cold, allergy or other sinus and respiratory issues.
With a cold or allergy, congestion of the sinus cavity is the most difficult issue facing CPAP sleep therapy. Sinus congestion limits the ability of the CPAP patient to fully breathe through their nose during sleep therapy. A patient who wears a nasal or nasal pillow CPAP mask or other CPAP headgear during therapy will ultimately have to forgo using their CPAP machine because of the inability to breathe effectively. As mentioned, for some, the situation of not being able to use their CPAP machine creates frustration, anxiety and even panic.
Because a nasal or nasal pillow CPAP mask or CPAP headgear relies on the patients ability to breathe comfortably through their nose, neither of these are effective when nasal congestion is present. Decongestants or nasal drops are effective for a short period of time. But it is not recommended to use either continuously. A person can also try hot compresses or other cold remedies to relieve these symptoms. Nevertheless, if the symptoms persist, a CPAP patient accustomed to their sleep therapy regiment must consider alternatives if sleep therapy is going to be effective.
Alternatives to Nasal CPAP Masks and CPAP Headgear
Typically, many CPAP therapy patients get used to one particular CPAP mask. With CPAP nasal mask being the most popular, the vast majority of CPAP patients have never used any other type of CPAP mask. Unfortunately, when cold and allergy symptoms arise, an alternative CPAP mask might be necessary. The most obvious alternative to the nasal mask is the full face CPAP mask. Because CPAP patients with nasal congestion will breathe mostly through their mouths during sleep, these full face masks are effective because they cover both the nose and the mouth.
Although some people feel more confined or claustrophobic in full face CPAP masks, new technology has made these masks lighter and more comfortable than ever before. In particular, the Resmed Quattro, the Fisher and Paykel Forma and the Phillips Respironics Fit Life each provide the CPAP patient with effective CPAP therapy and comfort during sleep therapy while being and excellent alternative to a nasal mask. Each of these full face masks has their own unique design features but function in similar fashion. The Resmed Quattro has been the most popular because of its dual-wall cushion technology with the Respironics Fit Life and the Fisher and Paykel Forma a close second and third. A particularly helpful tip is to become accustomed to wearing a full face mask prior to congestion issues so CPAP therapy will not be interrupted with its onset. Alternatively, the Phillips Respironics Total Full Face mask covers the entire face and can be used for people with less tolerance for a traditional full face CPAP mask. The downside to this mask is that it is nearly impossible to sleep anyway except on your back.
Preventative Maintenance for Your CPAP Masks and CPAP Headgear
Preventative maintenance for CPAP equipment and supplies is a must during the cold and allergy season. Obviously, by using the CPAP mask nightly, any germ, bacteria or allergen buildup will eventually contribute to the problem. With any preventative regime, a consistent schedule must be followed. Firstly, CPAP masks, cushions and CPAP headgear must all be cleaned regularly. Using anti-bacterial wipes followed by a water rinse on a daily basis should be a part of any CPAP mask cleaning routine. Moreover, it is suggested that the cushion and the CPAP headgear should be removed for a more thorough cleaning. The CPAP headgear can be hand washed and air dried. It may also be necessary to replace old cushions or headgear to completely remove bacteria or germs from the mask.
CPAP tubing is also another contributor to the germ cycle. With some condensation buildup in the CPAP tube, mold or other bacteria can coat the inside creating the need to constantly wash out the CPAP tube. Using vinegar and water solution, a water rinse and hanging to dry will help keep germs from forming. CPAP tubing should be replaced every three to six months depending on humidity and cleaning.
Finally, filters are the first defense against any allergen getting into the circuit. It is important to keep the filters clean and fresh. CPAP therapy machines should be kept off the floor and away from any dust or pet dander. Some filters can be washed but others lose their efficacy in a few months. It is recommended that CPAP filters be changed regularly in order to maintain a healthy and germ free breathing environment.Keep spare filters around especially when there are a lot of allergens in the air can be useful.
Nobody likes having a cold or being congested due to allergies. With a few simple rules to follow, your CPAP supplies and equipment will not be the cause or contribute to these symptoms and will allow the CPAP patient to continue with effective CPAP therapy.
