Before you commit to a CPAP machine and mask to treat obstructive sleep apnea, you can take a CPAP trial to ensure you get the proper equipment and fit. CPAP accessories can make sleeping with a sleep apnea machine and face mask much more comfortable during your trial.
Types of CPAP Accessories
“One option for CPAP accessories is a heated tube that has a heated wire going through the length of the tubing to optimize heat and humidity going through the nose,” says Onkar Rai, a Registered Respiratory Therapist and HealthChoices partner. “This prevents condensation through the tubing, and prevents congestion in the nasal passages. Another option that's available is a hose insulator. If you don't have the heated hose through the regular tube you can put an insulator in to reduce condensation and improve heat and humidity delivered through the nasal passages.”
Another option to treat sleep apnea is the CPAP pillow, which was designed specifically for patients that sleep on their side with the CPAP mask. Sleeping on your side means that the mask can press against your face, causing discomfort as the mask rubs against your skin.
“Instead of the pillow pushing up against the mask and dislodging it, causing irritating leaks, it's cut out on the side to prevent the leaks,” says Rai.
CPAP accessories can make using your CPAP equipment much easier and more comfortable, increasing the chance that patients will keep using their equipment on a long-term basis. If you've been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and have been using a CPAP machine, you may want to contact your home care provider to go over the options for CPAP equipment and accessories that are available to you.