Getting Back on Track with CPAP Therapy

Updated: February 5th, 2019

Good sleep is worth fighting for. However, even though the benefits are clear (energy, alertness, and better overall health) the first step is usually the most challenging. If you’ve been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and have given up on your CPAP therapy, I’d like to encourage you to pick it back up.

CPAP Issues and Solutions

We have gathered several common problems people may experience when on their CPAP journey, along with great solutions for getting back on the horse and improving your CPAP therapy.

1. CPAP therapy is uncomfortable.

Solution: We understand how hard it can be to adjust to your CPAP machine and mask. However, most of the battle is lack of knowledge on the many products that exist to resolve customer pain points that have been discovered over the years. Check out the products below to add some comfort to your CPAP set up.

• CPAP Pillows can aid in the prevention of sore spots.
• Snuggle products give a touch of softness to headgear straps and tubing.
• Heated humidification helps to reduce dry throat issues.
• CPAP mask liners can reduce skin irritation from your mask.
  

2. I can’t find answers to my CPAP questions.

Solution: You’re in luck, as we have several options for accessing information about CPAP therapy. Our FAQ pages have a wealth of searchable information on a variety of CPAP and Sleep Apnea topics. You can join a community of fellow CPAP’ers on our Facebook page or on CPAPTalk.com, our user community forum. If you prefer a little more privacy, you can get FREE professional advice by calling 1-800-356-5221 or emailing cpap@cpap.com.

3. I can’t find a good CPAP Mask fit.

Solution: All our CPAP Masks now come with free return insurance. This allows you to return the mask for free within 30 days and receive a full refund of the purchase price. However, we understand that returning masks can be a hassle. Read our article, “Tips for Finding the Right CPAP Mask Fit” so you can find your perfect fit and get better sleep sooner.

4. I’m having a hard time adjusting to my CPAP Mask.

Solution: Increasing the comfort could help to remove this issue. In addition, make sure to use your equipment on a daily basis. Take naps with it or start off by using it a few hours at bedtime until you are able to rest more peacefully throughout the night. Like any lifestyle adjustment, you need to start off easy and work your way up.

5. I’m still tired after using my CPAP.

Solution: Please keep at it! Going through sleep therapy is a progressive process and in the long run, you will feel the difference. If you want to track your progress, purchase a machine with advanced software and data. One user on cpaptalk.com said, “Most people have challenges with this treatment, so they need real incentive to push past them. One incentive is knowing how much better we can feel. Another is the health improvements. Those works best if they can be felt or at least seen. For example, my blood pressure is normal or almost normal if I have a couple good nights in a row. It goes back to very high if I have a bad night. I can see the improvement, and I know I need the treatment.”

On a Daily Basis

Something like this tiny machine and lightweight mask can help alleviate:
• Loud and frequent snoring
• Sleepiness or lack of energy during the day
• Morning headaches
• Forgetfulness and difficult concentrating
• Moodiness, irritability, or depression
• Weight gain
• High blood pressure

In Conclusion…

Stopping your therapy puts you at increased risks for serious health issues like heart attacks, strokes, car accidents, and diminished quality of life. In one study held by the Cleveland Clinic Sleep Disorders Center, nearly 800 participants with both symptoms of depression and OSA were treated with CPAP therapy for at least four hours a night. Results indicated all participants who used CPAP had significant relief from depression. Even those who only partially used CPAP saw improvements. In another study at the University of California, San Francisco, researchers looked into the link between sleep disordered breathing in older women and dementia. At the end of the study, patients who used CPAP therapy displayed improvements in memory, attention, and planning.

So, fight through the adjustment period. Seek advice from fellow users and professional CPAP experts. Turn the challenge of this therapy into an opportunity to stay healthy. Your sleep is well worth fighting for!