7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying CPAP/BiPAP Machine
Posted by Yogesh Nadar on
People suffering from sleep apnea treatment require CPAP or BiPAP machines to avoid snoring and breathe normally at night.
The “CPAP” is an abbreviation that stands for “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure,” and “BiPAP” stands for 'Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure.'
Both are medical supplies used to treat serious snoring conditions. The tongue and throat muscles relaxing during sleeping, sometimes, partially or fully close the airway. This causes you to snore, eventually leading to sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea products like CPAP and BiPAP machines work by forcing pressurized air into the throat and lungs.
The pressurized air keeps the airway open and allows the user to breathe normally at night.
But do both the sleep apnea machines perform the same tasks? Is there any distinction? Let’s find out.
Difference Between CPAP & BiPAP
The primary distinction between BiPAP and CPAP equipment is that BiPAP machines provide bi-level air pressure.
This implies you can have two air pressure settings: breathing (inspiratory setting or IPAP) and exhaling (expiratory pressure or EPAP).
This difference is sometimes referred to as a “pressure gradient.”
The advantages of using a CPAP and BiPAP machine include reduced blood pressure, better sleep, greater energy, and a lower risk of death or stroke while sleeping.
Hence, you better not choose the wrong one when deciding which one to purchase.
In this post, we will look at the factors one should consider to avoid mistakes when buying hospital supplies like BiPAP and CPAP machine online so that you choose the right sleep apnea machine for your specific therapeutic needs.
How Does CPAP/BiPAP Work?
A common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.
A CPAP machine uses a hose connected to a mask or nosepiece to deliver constant and steady air pressure to help you breathe while you sleep.
If you have low oxygen levels and your sleep expert has concluded that you need stronger air pressure to treat your sleep apnea adequately, a BiPAP machine may be beneficial.
Because of its lower expiratory pressure, many patients who require greater air pressure prefer the comfort of a BiPAP.
Exhaling against high air pressure can be difficult and make it difficult to fall or remain asleep. That battle is no longer tough with a BiPAP machine.
There is no such thing as the best therapy when it comes to PAP therapy. It all depends on which one is best for you.
It is always better to consult your sleep advisor regarding which sleep apnea product will be beneficial for successfully treating your snoring conditions.
If you still face problems concerning which product to buy, here are seven common mistakes to avoid while buying the right sleep apnea machine.
Here are 7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying CPAP/BiPAP Machine:
Mistake #1 – Buying sleep apnea devices because your friend uses them
Everyone is buying, so should I have it too? No! Don’t buy just because your friends or everyone around is buying.
Instead, look for a professional hospital equipment provider with the most up-to-date apnea software and hardware so that your sleep expert can keep track of your progress.
These factors are crucial for determining the efficacy of your therapy and the percentage of compliance success.
Mistake #2 – Purchasing the device without taking a sleep study test
Don't just randomly walk into a shop and buy a CPAP machine and take care of it yourself.
You’ve been told that you need a sleep study to learn more about how you sleep and how your airway is being obstructed.
It is recommended that you conduct your research in a sleep facility.
Mistake #3 – Not asking your doctor to prescribe the CPAP/BiPAP device along with required pressure settings
Always visit your doctor and have an examination based on your indications and symptoms and a sleep history.
If feasible, your sleep history information can be provided by someone who shares your bed or home.
An assessment may include nightly monitoring your breathing and other physiological systems at a sleep facility.
Mistake #4 – Using someone else’s used Sleep apnea mask
Never use a CPAP mask that has been borrowed or previously used.
It’s likely infected with a variety of germs. Even if it is sterile, it may not fit because it is widely recognized that mask fit is critical to CPAP user success.
This rule also applies to CPAP accessories like headgear, chin supports, and tubing.
Mistake #5 – Buying the wrong size or style CPAP mask
The CPAP machine is intended to help with any sleep problems. As a result, it’s critical to address and make sure the size of the CPAP mask is appropriate for your therapy’s success.
Check that your mask fits properly. A leaking mask might cause your nose to dry up. The mask does not fit correctly if you have to adjust the straps often to avoid air leaking.
A CPAP machine with a heated humidifier connecting to the air pressure machine is better.
Mistake #6 – Not using the CPAP/BiPAP machine EVERY night
The most commonly heard CPAP/BiPAP issue is that patients do not utilize the machine every night.
Alternatively, they may remove the mask during the night if it gets unpleasant. Even if you don’t use the gadget for one night, you’ll be tired the next day.
Speak with your doctor if you wish to discontinue using CPAP for whatever reason.
Mistake #7 – Not visiting your doctor or sleep specialist to track your treatment progress
If you’ve been experiencing symptoms like snoring or daytime tiredness, schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.
Your doctor may recommend you to a sleep expert who may assess you for OSA or other sleep problems after performing an examination.
A sleep specialist will do several tests to determine what’s causing your sleep problems.
The physician can then propose remedies to help you sleep better once you’ve received a diagnosis.
Management & Treatment of Sleep Apnea
The degree of your symptoms will determine the treatment choices for sleep apnea.
Natural therapies such as reducing weight or adjusting your sleeping posture may provide relief if your symptoms are minor.
You may require sophisticated therapy if you have moderate to severe sleep apnea.
Any professional, such as a pulmonologist, an otolaryngologist, a primary care physician (PCP), or a respiratory therapist, can help.
If your doctor recommends it, you must get a Sleep Study Test done.
Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking medicine or using sleep apnea equipment.
Use the gadget frequently with a suitable size fitted mask.
Regularly clean your device filter, and make sure the mask is clean and sanitary.
Conclusion
Consult your doctor and CPAP/BiPAP provider to find the optimum mask fit and device for you.
Regular visits to your sleep doctor are essential for troubleshooting difficulties and adjusting settings as needed.
As the time passes, you will discover the right settings and become acquainted with the mask.
CPAP can improve your health and quality of life with time and effort.
TenTabs has the best CPAP and BiPAP machine online at affordable prices.
Purchase a large variety of CPAP/BiPAP devices and other medical equipment online at the best rates. Place your order now!
FAQ
What are the symptoms/warning signs of Sleep Apnea?
Difficulty falling asleep, dry mouth, feeling low or tired always, loud snoring, etc., are some of the most common sleep apnea symptoms.
What is BiPAP?
Some medical conditions might make it difficult to breathe. In such circumstances, bilevel positive airway pressure may be beneficial. It is sometimes referred to as “BiPAP” or “BPAP.” It is a sort of ventilator, which is a device that aids in breathing.
What is CPAP?
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a popular treatment for sleep apnea. A CPAP machine utilizes a hose linked to a mask or nosepiece to provide continuous and consistent air pressure to assist you in breathing while sleeping.
What are the parts that come with CPAP/BiPAP Machine? How do I prepare for CPAP/BiPAP use?
You should be acquainted with the components of your BiPAP machine. They are as follows:
- A nose mask, a face mask, or nasal plugs
- The motor of the machine, which pumps air into a tube
- The tube that links the machine’s motor to the mask or plugs.
- Other functions of your BiPAP machine, such as a heated humidifier, may be available.
If you are looking to purchase a BiPAP machine for home usage, you should consult with a specialist that provides home medical equipment.
This individual can assist you in determining which sort of BiPAP machine is most suited to your needs.
They can also teach you on how and when to clean the masks, tubing, and other machine components.
It would help if you experimented with many sorts of masks before settling on your favourite.
What happens during CPAP/BiPAP use?
When you use a CPAP or BiPAP, you receive positive air pressure when you breathe in and out. When you breathe in, however, you receive more air pressure.
This setting is distinct from that of other types of ventilators. You wear a mask or nasal plugs attached to a ventilator.
The gadget blows pressured air into your lungs. It’s termed “positive pressure ventilation” because the gadget uses air pressure to expand your lungs.
What are the best CPAP/BiPAP machine brands, and where can I buy them?
TenTabs has the best products from the most reputed brands in India when buying a sleep apnea machine online.
We carry the largest range of sleep apnea products online sourced from brands like BMC, DeVilbiss, Hypnus Oxymed, Philips Respironics, ResMed, VentMed and more. BMC BiPAP and BMC CPAP are some of our best-selling sleep apnea machines online.
Disclaimer:
The content on this website, including the text, pictures, photographs, and other material, is provided solely for informative reasons. This website’s content is not meant to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions, always seek the counsel of your doctor.