PRE SET-UP OF CPAP THERAPY
Q: Is CPAP oxygen?
A: NO, CPAP stands for continuous positive air pressure.. It is room
air that is compressed and pushed through the mask into the airway
to splint it open. It does not give you extra oxygen it allows the
air to actually reach the lungs.
Q: How long will I have to wear CPAP?
A: For now it is as long as a physician prescribes it for. Usually
it is for the rest of your life. Unless something drastic changes
that makes you not need CPAP anymore. These could include weight
loss or surgery. But you should always consult your physician first.
POST SET-UP OF CPAP THERAPY
Q: I have a lot of pressure on the bridge of my nose it is
causing a sore, what can be done?
A: The adjustment at the top of the mask changes the pressure that
is applied to the bridge of the nose. You should readjust the mask
to make the pressure at the bridge comfortable and not have a
leak... Usually to get this to happen the mask itself needs to be
vertical to the face and then the forehead support should be
adjusted.. If this does not work then a different mask should be
tried.
Q: I have a lot of dryness, is the humidifier not working?
A: Dryness is common... It usually happens when the humidity is not
set correctly. Pls remember that the humidity should be changed
according to environment and personal humidity . If dryness occurs
then move up the humidity setting a couple of notches. If
condensation starts bring it down until you find a balance. These
settings will probably not be the same in the winter or in the
summer.
Q: I am hearing gurgling in the tubing.. Something is wrong
A: Gurgling usually happened when condensation builds up in the mask
and/or tubing. This is called "rain out". It is pretty common. Rain
out usually happens when the air temperature outside the tube is
colder then the air inside the tube. This problem can be solved by
bringing the humidity down.. If having dryness then insulate the
tubing with either a tube cover or your blanket.. This will keep the
temperatures at a closer range and condensation will not happen..
Remember to start with a dry tube every night.
Q: How should the mask fit?
A: The mask should fit snug NOT tight. If a mask has to be over
tightened it might just need to be readjusted. Always remember that
if you are creating sores it is probably too tight. If you need a
review on how to readjust the mask it is always good to watch the
DVD or CD-ROM that comes with most masks or call the office. |