FAQs About PAP Therapy for Sleep Apnea

The PAP machine is a therapeutic device that will assist you in getting a good night’s sleep. You will most likely continue using the PAP device as long as your condition/diagnosis remains the same. Some patients find that they do not need to use their device or can reduce their pressure settings after significant weight loss. It is important to talk to your doctor before you stop therapy. You may benefit from a sleep study to determine a lower pressure or to evaluate the severity of your condition.

You should use the PAP machine as ordered by your physician. However, it is generally recommended that you use your PAP machine every night. If at first you experience some difficulty staying asleep with the PAP device for a long period, it is recommended that you use it every night for as long as you can. Then try adding 30 minutes – 1 hour to your usage time nightly, until you have fully adapted to the machine.

All masks are designed with exhalation ports, or small apertures where the pressurized air is released. If you notice air blowing out of these small ports, this is OK. However, it is important not to have air blowing around your face and into your eyes. Please contact us if you are experiencing excessive air leakage or discomfort with your mask. Our staff will explain how to avoid these problems.

If you are using a disposable filter (usually white colored and thinner than a non-disposable filter) you should change it twice a month. However, keep in mind that you may need to swap out these filters more often depending on the quality of the air in your room. 

Learn more about how often you should replace your filters and other supplies here.

A heated humidifier specifically designed for your PAP device may help reduce dryness. Please refer to the user manual for operation instructions. If you have not received a heated humidifier along with your PAP device or if you have questions about the operation of your heated humidifier, please contact us. 

Most humidifiers come with a water chamber that has a maximum water level mark on them. Do not pour water past this mark. The water used with the humidifier needs to be distilled water and must be changed daily. Please refer to your user manual for more information.

The air pressure on your device is normally based on the results of your sleep diagnostic test. At times, it will take up to eight weeks for you to fully adapt to this pressure However, if you feel like the pressure is causing you excessive difficulty, please contact us so that we can assist you.

Our technical support team is ready to answer all your equipment questions. Please contact us as soon as a problem is detected.

One of the most important steps in taking charge of your health and maintaining effective therapy is replacing your mask and supplies regularly. Just as you replace your toothbrush, razor blades and many everyday items, it’s important for your comfort and health that you replace your mask and supplies as recommended to ensure every component is working at its best. Even minimal replacement can help drive effective therapy. However, failing to replace certain items on the mask and PAP device may lead to poor outcomes. 

Most insurance companies will authorize replacement supplies every 90 days.

Daily:
Wash the mask cushion in warm, soapy water – rinse and allow to air dry
Change the distilled water in the humidifier tank

Weekly:
Wash the humidifier tank in warm, soapy water – rinse and allow to air dry
Wash the tubing in warm, soapy water – rinse and allow to air dry

Monthly:
Change the cushion in the mask
Change the filter in the CPAP device (may replace up to two times per month)