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<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nUpdated on 05\/22\/2020.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This article is evidence-based, verified by Dr. Ahmed Zayed<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Safe Sleep Systems is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no additional cost to you. Learn more<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this post, we'll cover:<\/p>\n
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent and a severe sleep disorder. It affects almost 1 billion adults on a global scale between the ages of 30 and 69. Of all those affected, 95% are experiencing mild to severe symptoms, statistics show<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite the high prevalence, the number of affected individuals is steadily increasing, stated the National Institutes of Health<\/a>. But, to manage the condition, patients first need to understand it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This health problem occurs when the muscles in the throat<\/a> start to relax at irregular intervals, instead of slowly and steadily. As a result, the airways become blocked, creating difficulties while sleeping. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But, if the condition is left untreated, it can have some severe repercussions on the overall health. For many patients, it can result in<\/a>: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Otherwise, it is a manageable condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The CPAP is the gold standard for managing and controlling chronic diseases that stop breathing for more than 10 sec. Patients suffering from OSA can use it as an effective therapy to boost the air pressure and prevent the airways from narrowing when inhaling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This tool is designed to add pressure and filter out the air before delivering it to the tubes. The device features a mask that often completely covers the mouth and the nose. It is connected to the CPAP machine via tubes designed to transfer the air from the machine into the nose. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Without a CPAP, patients would have trouble normalizing their breathing patterns during sleep, which will make it challenging to maintain the proper oxygen levels in the system and sleep well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Based on reports<\/a>, CPAP is a highly efficient tool for removing any obstructive respiratory issues that may trigger an apneic episode. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The tool is designed to reduce the possibility of snoring and improve the quality of sleep. It also has a dramatic effect on lowering apneic episodes and boosting the quality of life, studies show<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Dr. Carlos Nunez<\/a>, a Chief Medical Officer, every patient may experience the disease differently. In other words, depending on the severity and type of the condition, only the doctor can determine the right airflow pressure to use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just like any other device, the CPAP requires regular cleaning and maintenance. Not only will it help the device last longer, but it will also reduce your exposure to bacteria. Luckily, cleaning the equipment is not as hard as it looks. You need to know the right steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A CPAP has many parts and connections, and each piece should be cleaned correctly to ensure it remains safe and effective. But, not many patients are familiar with all the parts of the device, including how often they should clean them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
That’s why we’ve decided to compile the most practical information on how to clean the machine. But, before we show you how to do it, here are a few cleaning tips you should master based on each part. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Almost all CPAP devices feature a humidification system. It is responsible for decreasing the chance of a dry mouth and inflamed nasal turbinates. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But, what most patients don’t know is that these turbinates calcify and build up bacteria over time. It’s imperative to clean the humidifier every day to avoid exposing your body to potentially dangerous bacteria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip: When you use the machine, keep it away from curtains or various objects that may hinder its process. They may interfere with the humidifier and make inhaling more difficult. So, check the surroundings before you place the machine. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, don’t forget to replace the humidifier. The ideal replacement period would be six months after usage. But, you can use it longer if it’s necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Probably the most critical feature of the CPAP is the mask<\/a>. You have direct contact with the silicone as soon as you start using the machine. But, if you don’t take good care of it, it will break apart faster than you might expect. Wash the mask daily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The filters are placed very close on the back of the machine. These are the tools responsible for drawing the air and delivering it to the lungs. Try to clean these filters once a week. The good thing is, you don’t have to clean the machine itself. You should dust it, and it will be ready for use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tip: If you are an avid smoker, or you live in a dusty place with pets, you might have to replace the filters more often than that. <\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
While it may be challenging to get used to the cleaning schedule, you mustn’t skip on your cleaning routine. Do it in the morning when you have more time to spare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
