The Efficiency of “Continual Positive Airway Pressure” generally known as “CPAP” machines for people who suffer from sleep apnea. These machines keep a steady flow of air during sleep and as a result breathing is not interrupted thus enhancing both quality of sleep and one’s health. But as with every other medical device, CPAP machines are known to require regular maintenance to run optimally and also to last longer. Maintenance not only entails extension of life of the concerned machine but also assures that the patients will derive the best therapy results. Below is a list of important guidelines when it comes to the maintenance of the CPAP equipment.
- Regularly Clean the CPAP Mask
The mask that touches your face especially the CPAP one should be washed on daily basis. Daily facial oils, sweat, and other forms of dirt build up on the surface of the mask and causes skin rash disrupting the mask’s seal. This way, a poor seal can lead to air leaks thus lessening the efficiency of the machine.
To clean the mask:
In the routine skin care, wash the skin part with warm water and using mild, non-fragranced soap daily. DO NOT use strong chemicals or alcohol to clean the mask as these products are likely to destroy the fabric.
Wash your face, preferably with warm water and soap, remove the mask and clean it then hang to dry on a clean fabric or towel.
Also, evaluate the mask’s stability by checking frequently for any signs of deterioration for example crack or a stretched headgear. Components must be replaced whenever necessary in order to ensure that they can fit securely and perfectly to make a seal.
- Replace Filters Regularly
All these CPAP machines come with filters that are able to capture dust, pollen and most other particles in the air that may be hazardous to the patient.
There are typically two types of filters in a CPAP machine:
Disposable Filters: These should be changed every 2-4 weeks, especially if you have a pet, or live in a particularly dusty area.
Reusable Filters: These should be washed once every week using warm water and soap then rinsed before being left to dry naturally to be put back again. These filters should be replaced after 3-6 months depending on the state that they are in.
It is recommended to consult the user manual of your machine as maintenance of the filters may differ with the type of machine.
- Clean the Humidifier Chamber
Some of the CPAP machines are fitted with a humidifier which increases the amount of moisture present in the air to avoid dryness in the throat and the nasal passage.
To clean the humidifier chamber:
- Remainder should be thrown in the morning and the chamber should be washed with warm water and soap.
- Wash them with clean water and preferably let them dry on the outside before the next use is needed.
- Once a week clean the chamber with equal parts of vinegar and water for 30 minutes to disinfect the chamber. Rinse well afterward.
Employing distilled water instead of tap water reduces the chances of forming deposits within the chamber thereby increasing the life of the equipment.
- Inspect and Replace Tubing
It is a part of the equipment; the tubing links the CPAP machine to the mask needed for therapy. It should be washed on a weekly basis as accumulation of these products leads to build up of moisture and bacteria that cause respiratory infections.
To clean the tubing:
- Take it off the machine and mask especially if you are referring to disposable one.
- Wash it with warm water and soap well ensuring that the inner part has been cleaned adequately.
- Rinse again with clean water and having the tubing over a shower or towel stand to allow it to dry thoroughly.
The tubing should therefore be checked frequently for any visible signs of damage, for instance cracks or holes or any sign that it might have worn out. Change it every 6 -12 months or earlier if it gets damaged in a way that it will obstruct the airflow of the room.
- Check for Software Updates
Many of the machines currently in the market include enhanced software that tracks the use’s sleep and the performance or the machine. It is not uncommon for manufactures to release updates to a product’s software for the purpose of enhancing the product or recover from a flaw. To update your machine, connect the computer to the Internet or check the website of the manufacturer you use.
Maintenance of this software means that your machine is in good working order and gives you the updated sleep report.
- Schedule Regular Professional Inspections
However, to be on the safe side, it is advisable to visit a technician for him/her to undertake an elaborate check up on the CPAP machine at least once per year. The user can look at internal parts that might be problematic, examine the pressure values and find out whether the machine is operating optimally. They are also able to adjust the machine if need be to make sure that it continues to suit your needs when it comes to therapy.
Conclusion
It is very important to notice and follow some general rules concerning the proper usage of your CPAP machine to make it work for as long as possible and as effectively as possible. Maintenance includes cleaning and inspecting the mask, filters, Tubing and humidifier and updating the software part and professional examination. Apart from prolonging the life of the device, it also guarantees that you get the best result of your sleep apnea treatment. So always take good care of your CPAP machine because it will ensure that you sleep well and keep off other illnesses.
