Sleep Apnea 101: New User Basics

How can I get help from a CPAP Expert?

• Ask A Question. Question Submission Form.
• Email Us. cpap@cpap.com.
• By Phone. 1-800-356-5221 (7 AM -10 PM CST Mon-Fri; 8 AM - 6 PM CST Sat)
• By Fax. 1-866-353-2727

What is Humidification?

Humidification adds moisture to the CPAP air, reducing irritation to the nasal passages caused by the increased airflow.

CPAP air is an irritant - to one degree or another - to everyone. In some cases the irritation dries out the nasal passages and may cause bleeding. It may also cause swelling, excess mucous, congestion or sneezing. The irritation also creates a very fertile ground for infections to begin. The irritation may be cumulative, building up over time. The only way to reduce the irritation is to add moisture.

Humidification is therefore a critical part of CPAP Therapy.

What are the benefits of using a humidifier?

Many PAP users experience nasal congestion and dryness of the nose and throat during treatment. This is especially problematic for new users adapting to the treatment. Humidification adds moisture to the air, reducing systems of dryness and congestion.

Nasal congestion also leads to mouth breathing, which perpetuates the problem of dryness. If this is an issue for you, try a heated humidifier.

How do I care for my humidifier?

The only care the humidifiers require is that you empty and clean the water tank after use in the morning. Be sure to use distilled water only in the tank.

Why do I need to use distilled water with in my humidifier tank?

Using distilled water helps keep your humidifier clean and mineral deposit free. If you were to use tap water, the water would evaporate to leave a hard white mineral deposit in your tank or lead to mold growth. Cases of lung disease have been connected to using contaminated well water in a CPAP humidifier.* Source

If you can't get distilled water where you live, use bottled water. You will need to rinse your tank out each morning and do not leave standing water in your tank between uses.

What is CPAP tubing/CPAP hose?

CPAP tubing and CPAP hose can be interchangeable terms. CPAP hoses/tubing are used for two main purposes: either to connect the machine or humidifier to the CPAP mask, or to connect the machine to a humidifier.

Machine to Mask Hose. Machine to Mask hoses are the standard hose used with most therapy setups. The hose is placed to the air outtake of either the machine or humidifier and connects to the CPAP mask to deliver the airflow to the mask. There are three types of machine to mask hoses:

• Standard/Performance Hose. Standard 6 foot hoses come included with each cpap machine purchase. The posts on all CPAPs, humidifiers and masks are a standard size, so a standard CPAP hoe will fit on all. The standard hoses are also available in 8 foot and 10 foot sizes. There are also lighter hoses available that were designed to be more flexible and put less pull on the CPAP mask.
• Hose with Sensor Line. A few auto-titrating CPAPs and Bilevels require a pressure line sensor to detect breathing patters and pressure needs. The machines that require this tubing have been discontinued and are no longer sold.
• Heated Hose. A heated CPAP hose contains copper coils embedded in or wrapped around it. These coils conduct a constant temperature through the hose. Heated hoses can only be used with specific machines.

Humidifier Hose. Humidifier hoses connect a CPAP machine to a stand alone humidifier to deliver airflow from the machine to the mask. Humidifier hoses are smaller than standard hoses. They come in either 18 or 24 inches.

How do I clean a CPAP hose?

Your CPAP hose will last longer if you detach it every morning and hang it to air dry. It should be removed by grasping it on the rubber ends, rather than on the hose itself. A "Hose Quick Connect" is available to help remove and replace the hose more easily.

Drying the hose each morning will also prevent bacteria from growing in the damp interior and help reduce the possibility of colds and other health issues.

If you are not drying the hose daily, then be sure to replace the hose very frequently as negative health issues will result!

How often should I replace my CPAP hose?

CPAP hoses can last a long time, sometimes up to a year if taken care of properly.

Signs of wear are dry, cracked places on the inside lining or on the rubber ends; "stretch marks" near the rubber ends; and mineral deposits or mold from water left inside the hose.

Your CPAP hose will last longer if you detach it every morning and hang it to air dry. It should be removed by grasping it on the rubber ends, rather than on the hose itself. A "Hose Quick Connect" is available to help remove and replace the hose more easily.

Drying the hose each morning will also prevent bacteria from growing in the damp interior and help reduce the possibility of colds and other health issues.

If you are not drying the hose daily, then be sure to replace the hose very frequently as negative health issues will result!

What is a heated CPAP hose?

A heated CPAP hose contains copper coils embedded in or wrapped around it. These coils conduct a constant temperature through the hose.

Heated hoses are more expensive alternatives to cloth tubing insulation, but they prevent rainout in nearly all cases. An example of a heated hose, the ThermoSmart Heated Hose is shown below.

What is rainout?

Rainout is the accumulation of water in a CPAP tube due to warm moist air cooling on its way from your CPAP machine to your CPAP mask.

The image below from Fisher & Paykel explains how rainout is formed. Warm moist air leaves the heated humidifier and travels down the CPAP tube. As the air travels down the tube the room temperature can cool the tube and therefore cool the air traveling down the tube. As the air cools, the air released its moisture and condensation occurs, otherwise known as rainout.

Solutions to rainout include:

• Raising the temperature of your bedroom.
• Keep your CPAP machine at the same level as your bed.
• Insulating your tubing with a hose cover like Snugglehose.
• Purchasing a CPAP machine with a rainout reduction comfort feature.

What is a hose cover?

A hose cover is placed over the hose in order to insulate the hose and to make the hose more comfortable. The simplest and most cost effective way to insulate a CPAP hose is to wrap it in an insulating fabric. This enables the hose to remain flexible and adds little weight.

Companies such as Snugglehose provide a cost effective tubing insulation available in several colors and styles. Not only will the covers reduce or eliminate rainout, they also provide a more personal and less institutionalized appearance. An example of a Snugglehose is shown below.

How do I choose the mask that is right for me?

We provide our customers with many tools to make informed decisions about their mask purchases. Options include:

• Calling a CPAP Expert Toll Free. 1-800-356-5221.
  
  
• Comparison Charts. These charts compare available machines, feature by feature. If you don't know the meaning of a feature, click on the question mark for a definition. Click on the image or name of the product for more detailed product information, pictures and resources.
  
  Compare Most Popular Masks
  
  Compare All Masks
  
  
• Help Me Choose Guide. We created a guide to help you select the right mask or machine according to your preferences. The guide asks you a series of questions regarding your preferences and your facial features. Based on your answers we provide you with a comparison chart of the masks that meet your criteria. Get started here:
  
  Help Me Choose - Mask
  
  
• Browse Our Mask Product Categories. These categories show each machine our company offers, ranked by popularity. Popularity is determined by a mix of sales data and our in house opinion of the quality of the machine based on our experience and customer feedback. The best products float to the top of our categories.
  
  Nasal Mask Category
  
  Full Face Mask Category
  
  Nasal Pillow Mask Category
  
  Nasal Prong Mask Category
  
  Hybrid Mask Category
  
  Oral Mask Category
  
  Total Face Mask Category
  
  
• Return Insurance. With every mask we sell, you have the option of purchasing return insurance. Masks are FDA approved medical devices. Once a mask is used, it cannot be resold to another customer. We were the first in the industry to offer Return Insurance to our customers. Return Insurance provides 30 days for you to try a mask and return it for any reason for a refund of the price of the mask. If you are trying a mask for the first time, return insurance might be right for you.

How do I care for my mask?

Masks should be washed daily in warm water with baby shampoo and left to air dry. Never use antibacterial soap as it will break down the silicone of the mask. Avoid soaps with lotion or lanolin which can coat the mask and cause it to lose its seal. A safe cleaner is the Control III Disinfectant CPAP Cleaning Solution. Remember to go to bed with a clean face, this will improve your seal and protect the lifespan of your mask.
The best time to clean your mask is in the morning so that the oils from your skin are removed. We recommend using mask wipes to make daily morning cleanings easy. The mask wipes are made from materials that will not break down your mask.

How often should I replace my mask?

Medicare allows for mask cushion replacement every three (3) months and complete mask system replacement every six (6) months. CPAP manufacturers and vendors suggest these replacement schedules as well.

In our experience, most mask cushions begin to deteriorate after about six months of use. The silicone eventually becomes too soft to hold a seal and headgear straps must be tightened more and more to get the same quality seal.

We strongly suggest replacing cushions and pillows as soon as they start to soften. Air leaks may reduce the effectiveness of CPAP therapy and headgear that is too tight may cause facial sores at pressure points. You can also replace the headgear of your mask if it is stretched out or the Velcro worn out.

To see what parts of your mask are replaceable refer to our Replacement Part Finder. Search for your mask and then see all of the replaceable parts.

How can I find replacement parts for my CPAP Mask?

For many masks there are many parts that are replaceable like the mask cushion, headgear, headgear clicks, mask frame, and other parts. To find what parts are compatible with your mask or to find what parts of your mask are replaceable you can:

• Use our Replace Part Wizard to identify your mask and see all the related parts.
• Browse for your mask and then click the "Replacement Parts" button on your mask's product page.

I sleep on my side or stomach, what are my options?

Sleeping on your side or stomach is preferable to sleeping on your back because sleeping on your back worsens all forms of sleep-disordered breathing. However, sleeping on your side or stomach can present problems to CPAP therapy. Both positions can put pressure on one side of your mask increasing your leak rate. Your options are to (1) try a mask that other side sleepers like (2) try bed pillows made for CPAP users.

• Masks: We have found some masks allow for movement in sleeping position better than others. See our recommended masks for Active or Side/Stomach Sleepers.
  
  
• Special CPAP Pillows: Regular bed pillows can put pressure against the mask and cause leaks. CPAP pillows are made with CPAP users in mind. These special pillows are designed to minimize the contact of the CPAP mask with the pillow, even when you are sleeping on your side.
  

What is the purpose of a chinstrap?

Nasal delivery devices are the preferred mode of delivering CPAP air. They are smaller, lighter and usually more comfortable, with many styles and sizes to choose from.

When using a nasal device with a CPAP, it is imperative that the mouth remain closed for the pressure to be maintained and the therapy to be effective. Most people will automatically keep their mouth closed while on CPAP, but some are unable to do so, at least in the beginning of the therapy.

Use of a chinstrap is the first response to opening the mouth during sleep. It is worn in addition to the CPAP mask to hold the jaw up and help keep the mouth closed.

Even with the use of a chinstrap, some people are still able to breathe through their teeth and lips. If so, a full face mask is an option worth considering.

I breathe through my mouth, what are my options?

If you are a mouth breather, you can wear most masks with a few adaptations. The nasal pillow, nasal prong or nasal mask can be worn with a chinstrap.


A full face mask or hybrid mask can be used without a chinstrap because the seal covers your nose and mouth. A full face mask will allow you to breathe through your mouth or through your nose.

If you have or develop chronic sinus problems, a full face mask or an oral face mask are the ones to try. Oral masks work best for mouth breathers with blocked nasal passages. You must use a heated humidifier with the oral mask. CPAP.com sells the Oracle HC452 Oral CPAP mask.

If you are a mouth breather who does not want to or cannot wear a chinstrap, please see our recommended masks for Mouth Breathers.

Why is air leaking from my mouth?

Air leaks from the mouth whenever the mouth is opened during CPAP therapy. This occurs for many reasons, but a very common one is due to nasal irritation from the CPAP airflow.

The correlation to a lack of humidification and mouth leaks is a topic being heavily researched. Studies are now being conducted on the hypothesis that a large amount of mouth leakage is caused by the following cycle:

• CPAP therapy is used with ineffective or no humidification.
• The nasal membranes are unable to adequately condition the increased airflow and after a few minutes the airway and nasal passages become dry.
• To remedy the dryness and obtain moisture, the body uses the mouth to breathe.
• CPAP air follows the path of least resistance and leaks out of the open mouth.
• The air leaking through the mouth causes more dryness.
• Patient wakes up feeling tired with significant dryness in mouth and dry, swollen nasal passages.

The answer to this cycle is humidification. If the mouth continues to open during sleep, a chinstrap may be needed to hold the jaw up so that the mouth can close. If mouth breathing continues, a full face mask that covers the nose and mouth is indicated.

Why is my mouth dry in the morning?

Dry mouth is a sign that you are opening your mouth while you sleep. If you use nasal mask, breathing through your mouth bypasses any humidification you may be using so increasing the heat will not be effective. Breathing through your mouth while using a nasal mask reduces the benefit of the CPAP therapy.

First be sure the mask is not leaking. If it is six to nine months old and leaking, try replacing it. If it is new and leaking, we can help you get a better size.

If your mask is new and NOT leaking, try a chinstrap to keep your jaw up and mouth closed. If a chinstrap doesn't solve the problem, try masks recommended for Mouth Breathers.

If you use a full face mask and have a dry mouth, try adding a heated humidifier to add moisture.

How do I stop mask leaks?

Air leaks are caused by masks that are too big, too old, or just the wrong style.

Air leaking into the eyes is usually an indication that the mask is too big (long) as are leaks at the base of the nose. Leaks may also occur under the nose due to facial hair.

As the silicone in the mask cushion ages, it deteriorates and becomes too soft to hold a seal. For many masks, you can get a replacement cushion. See our Replacement Part Finder to see if your mask has a replaceable cushion.

You may be able to tighten it enough to stop the leaking when you go to sleep, but during the night it will loosen and leak.

Mask Leaks may also be caused by the pillow pushing against the mask and changing the position of the mask. There are special CPAP pillows which are are designed to minimize the contact of the CPAP mask with the pillow, even when you are sleeping on your side.

Why do I wake up with dry eyes?

Air leaking from the mask at the bridge of the nose and over the eyes during sleep will cause the eyes to dry out. The most common reason for air leaking at the nose bridge is that the mask is too big or too long for the nose.

We would suggest you try our measurements for sizing your mask to be sure you have the best size. A mask that has an adjustment at the bridge may also be helpful in getting a good fit. Nasal pillow or nose cushion devices which do not rest on the nose are also an option.

It is not advisable to tighten the headgear to eliminate the air leak. Pressure from a mask that is too tight will cause bruises and even open sores if applied long enough.

Why do I wake up to find my mask is off?

People remove their mask during sleep because they are not getting enough air.

The CPAP pressure may be reduced if your mask is leaking. Your mask may be too big or too old. We would suggest you resize your mask to be sure you have the best size. If your mask fits you but is six to nine months old, it should be replaced. As the silicone in the mask cushion ages, it deteriorates and becomes too soft to hold a seal. For many masks, you can get a replacement cushion. See our Replacement Part Finder to see if your mask has a replaceable cushion.

If the CPAP air is being delivered effectively, it may be that it is set too low. Pressure settings may require change due to weight gain or loss. The type of sleep study you had and the duration of sleep may indicate that your pressure could be adjusted. You should speak to your doctor if you think your pressure may need to be adjusted.

Why is my nose so dried out?

The primary reason why nasal passages sometimes dry out from CPAP use is lack of adequate humidification.

CPAP air is an irritant - to one degree or another - to everyone. The irritation may cause the nasal passages to dry out and bleed, or the mucous membranes may try to protect the nasal passages by producing excess mucous and so congestion results. And the irritation can be cumulative; the problem may develop over time. Furthermore, dry, cracked or bleeding nasal passages are a breeding ground for infection.

Add a heated humidifier to add moisture to the CPAP air and reduce or eliminate the irritation. A passover humidifier may not offer enough moisture. If you are already using a heated humidifier, try turning it up to a higher setting. If that produces condensation in the six foot hose, you should try an insulating cover for the hose. You can also try using a nose lubricant to reduce the dryness.

What can I do for sinus and congestion relief?

A lot of new CPAP users report having an increase in sinus congestion after starting CPAP therapy. When treating your Obstructive Sleep Apnea, sinus congestion presents a roadblock to healthy breathing. CPAP air is an irritant - to one degree or another - to everyone. The irritation may cause the nasal passages to dry out and bleed, or the mucous membranes may try to protect the nasal passages by producing excess mucous and so congestion results.

The best option is to add a heated humidifier to add moisture to the CPAP air and reduce or eliminate the irritation. If you are already using a heated humidifier, try turning it up to a higher setting. If that produces condensation in the six foot hose, you should try an insulating cover for the hose. Other options are to:

• Wait and See
• Visit your the ear/nose/throat doctor, and let them know you are on CPAP therapy.
• Try using a sinus rinse before going to bed and again once you wake in the morning to help clear your sinuses.

As a general rule, persons with Obstructive Sleep Apnea should avoid using sedating medicines. Sedating medicines relax the muscles of the air passage even more and can effect your apneas. You should consult your doctor before using these types of medicines.

Why do I have a headache when I wake up?

CPAP does not normally cause headaches unless there is a sinus related problem or some pressure from the machine acting where it should not be.

Sinus systems are extensive, even going behind your ears. When a CPAP is used and part of the sinus cavities are blocked, a situation is created where there is a pressure differential between the sinus cavities affected. These pressure differences can sometimes be felt as sinus headaches or just plain headaches, even though they are caused by sinus blockages. These can be treated using over the counter medications to open the sinus. CPAP heated humidifiers can also open and maintain sinus systems. If you do not use a heated humidifier, we strongly suggest using one. If this does not correct the problem, visit your ENT.

How do I avoid red marks?

Most red marks on the face are caused by over tightening the CPAP mask. CPAP masks should only be tightened down enough to create a seal. To avoid over tightening your mask, you should work clockwise around the mask, making small adjustments to the headgear, until the mask is securely in place but not overly tight. You should avoid pulling too much on one side of the mask than then other.

By cleaning your mask cushion, nasal pillows, and nasal prongs on a daily basis, you ensure a better seal each time you put on your mask. If you know you have a mask that fits, and are cleaning it daily, and still have red marks, consider using mask straps pads which are soft covering for the headgear straps.

Why is my face breaking out around my nose?

Sores, redness and bumps around your nose can be caused by one three main reasons: facial oils are building up under the mask material; the mask is overly tight; or the mask material is causing an allergic reaction.

A breakout can occur from the facial oils building up under the mask at night. You can help minimize this by washing your face before putting on the mask at night and by cleaning the oils off the mask every morning. If you are still experiencing a breakout, you might consider Nasal Pillow masks which have less material that comes in contact with the skin.

Most masks are made of silicone, which is an inert substance. But silicone is manufactured in chemicals to which some people are allergic. The chemicals normally degrade and disperse over time, but may cause a reaction when first used. The solution is to remove surface chemicals before using the mask. Washing the mask will reduce or eliminate the problem. This process can be accelerated by long soaks in warm soapy water. This method can be used with all types of masks, and should also be applied to mask replacement parts. While soaking the mask will help remove the surface chemicals, it my reduce the life of the silicone.

Sores at the bridge of the nose or below the nose are usually due to tightening the headgear straps too much. The pressure will create soreness, then a bruise, and may eventually create an open sore if left untreated. Your mask should seal when worn comfortably. If you have to over tighten your mask to get a good seal, consider switching to another mask type. To avoid over tightening your mask, you should work clockwise around the mask, making small adjustments to the headgear, until the headgear in securely in place but not overly tight. You should avoid pulling too much on one side of the mask than then other.

Why is the bridge of my nose sore?

Sores at the bridge of the nose or below the nose are usually due to tightening the headgear straps too much. The pressure will create soreness, then a bruise, and may eventually create an open sore if left untreated.

Headgear is usually tightened too much to reduce or eliminate air leaks. A small degree of this may be necessary, but too much is an indication that the mask is too large, too old or just the wrong style.

If your mask is six to nine months old and the silicone is becoming too soft to hold a seal, try replacing it. Find the right replacement cushion for your mask using our Replacement Part Finder.

It is usually necessary to stop wearing a mask to allow these sores to heal. Nasal pillows are an option in the meantime.

Can I travel with my CPAP?

Yes. CPAP therapy should be used every night. In the USA, CPAP it is not counted as a carry on item for air travel. Some locations in Asia and Europe will count it as a carry on, but all will allow it.

Helpful Links:

Air Travel: Call your airline. Each airline has a different policy on whether or not you can use your CPAP while in flight, and if they have a power source available.

• TSA page on CPAP
• United Airlines Policy for Medical Devices Onboard
• Southwest Airlines Policy for CPAP Devices
• Continental Airlines Policy for CPAP Devices
• Delta Airlines Policy for CPAP Devices
• Frontier Airlines Policy for CPAP Devices
• American Airlines Policy
• Jet Blue Airlines Policy

Cruise: Many cruise lines can provide distilled water. Call your cruise company for their specific policies and amenities with CPAP equipment.

• Carnival Cruise Policy

Here is a letter from Resmed on the topic:

Resmed Issued Post-Sept. 11th Travel Letter

RESMED
ResMed Corp
14040 Danielson Street
Poway, CA 92064-6857
Tel: (800) 424-0737
(858) 746-2400
Fax: (858) 746-2900
Email: usreception@resmed.com
Internet: www.resmed.com


March 22, 2002

RE: RESMED CPAP DEVICE

To Whom It May Concern,

With regard to the patient in possession of this letter and the accompanying ResMed CPAP device, please read the following:

The ResMed CPAP is a medical device cleared for sale by the Food and Drug Administration, a branch of the Federal Government of the United States of America, for the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in adult patients and has been prescribed for use on or by the order of a physician.

Further, it does not contain any parts or materials known to cause, or interfere with, the safe operation of a commercial aircraft.

Should you have any questions regarding this device please contact ResMed Customer Service in the United States on (800) 424-0737.

Our European offices located in France, Germany, Sweden and the UK can be contacted through:

ResMed (UK) Limited
67b Milton Park
Abingdon
Oxfordshire OX14 4RX
UK
Tel: +44 (1235) 862 997
Fax: +44 (1235) 831 336
Email: reception@resmed.co.uk


Yours Sincerely,

Simon JP Johnson
Sr. Product Manager
ResMed Corp.

Will my CPAP operate overseas?

An adapter may be required to plug a US power cord into a wall outlet in a foreign country. CPAP.com sells an assortment pack of World Traveler Power Adapter Plugs, which allow CPAP machines to plug into different types of wall sockets found in different countries.

All the models CPAP.com sell contain power converters that enable the machine to operate on any AC current from 100 to 240 volts without any adjustment. Check with your dealer or manufacturer to see if your machine needs an external converter that lowers the voltage from 240 to 120 VAC.

What travel tips should I know?

CPAP therapy should be used every night. You CPAP should go with you on trips. There are some tips to help with your travel:

• Remove Water From The Humidifier. If you are going to take your CPAP humidifier with you, remove ALL water from the humidifier chamber. Water left in the humidifier chamber can be tipped into your machine and cause damage.
• Accompany Your CPAP Through Security. Stay with your CPAP. When going through security, security agents will usually need to inspect the CPAP separately. Ask to stay with the CPAP. This way you can watch them handle the CPAP machine, and you can make sure all of your parts (cords, masks, chambers) get back into the bag.
• Plan Your Power Needs. Know what type of power your CPAP requires. If you are going to use a battery, make sure you have all the parts needed to safely run the CPAP on battery power. If you are traveling abroad make sure you have an international adapter plug. Check out the Power Solutions section of the FAQ for more information.
• Identify Your CPAP as Medical Equipment. To help move through security easier, put a Medical Equipment tag on your CPAP bag. We have a Medical Equipment Luggage Tag which comes with every machine sale.
• Carry a Medical Alert Card. Although this is good to have when traveling, it is also good to always carry a Medical Alert card in your wallet that lets emergency personnel know that you have obstructive sleep apnea. We have a Medical Alert card that comes with every mask purchase.
• Pack Your Power Cord. Just like people commonly leave cell phone chargers at home or in the hotel, we frequently get called from travelers who left their cpap power cord. Check to make sure your cord is packed with your machine.
• Bring Spare Parts and Back Up Mask. Like the power cord, items get left behind or misplaced while on the road. Having backup parts and a back up mask will make sure that you are not caught without equipment.
• Call Us If You Leave Something. CPAP.com delivers all over the US and to most international destinations. This includes to hotels and resorts. We also have expedited shipping options. If you are in a bind, give us a call 1-800-356-5221.

How do I prepare for plane travel with CPAP?

Your CPAP does NOT count against your carry on limits. Allow for an additional 10-20 minutes in security, not likely but it happens. If airport personnel ask about the CPAP, let them know politely that it is a medical device (a CPAP unit). Most of them understand what it is and that it is an exception to the normal rules. We provide a luggage tag for CPAP systems: http://www.cpap.com/productpage/medical-identification-luggage-tag-cpap-equipment.html

You can use your CPAP on board, just use batteries or make sure you're seated by a power outlet. You can call or reserve one of these seats online with most airlines.

Be sure to bring spare parts and a back up mask. If you're in a bind, CPAP.com delivers all over the US and to most international destinations.

How do I prepare for international travel with CPAP?

To prepare for your international travel, be sure to:

• Check the voltage of your destination. You may need a plug adapter for your machine.
• Go ahead and pack spare parts to your equipment, CPAP.com can ship to most destinations around the world, but you may not want to additional wait and cost when you know you have a spare mask sitting at home.
• Review the general travel tips above.

• Woke up without my mask on. What gives?
• Help Interpreting results of sleep study

• It is estimated eighteen million Americans have Sleep Apnea. That's one in eleven!
• For sleep apnea concerns, visit our online forum, www.cpaptalk.com.

CPAP.com Newsletters

• Research Spotlight: The Positive Effects of CPAP Therapy
• Educate your Family and Friends about Sleep Apnea
• Sleep Tips: CPAP Therapy is Hard Enough Get the Basics Right
• Sleep Apnea and Related Health Issues
• EZ Breathing Technology: Understand Flex features and more
• The Redesigned CPAPtalk.com
• 5 Common CPAP Pitfalls To Avoid
• CPAPtalk Product Challenge Introduced
• CPAPtalk is your place for support and advice