Finding the best continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) equipment for your needs often involves patient self-advocacy. After your sleep study, it is important to access the correct equipment for your needs. If not, you may not experience the full benefits of CPAP treatment and you may have difficulty tolerating the machine or mask.
Instructions
After Your Sleep Study
1. Communicate directly with the sleep doctor at the lab that conducted your sleep study. Find out from the doctor if you could benefit from a machine with unique features, such as expiratory pressure release (a lower air pressure upon exhalation which makes CPAP easier to tolerate for some people) or heated tubing.
2. If you travel frequently, ask about a smaller unit, or a unit with a detachable humidifier chamber for ease of carrying.
3. Know the right mask for your needs. If you experienced discomfort with the mask you used during your sleep study, try on several alternatives during a mask fitting at the sleep lab. You have a wide array of options, such as over-the-nose masks, full-face masks, nasal pillow masks (which go into the nostrils), and masks which contain nasal pillows and cover the mouth. The mask you select will be written on the final prescription, along with the particular CPAP unit you need.
4. Ask the sleep lab for a list of home-care companies, and contact several of them directly to find one you are happy with. In most cases, the sleep lab will send a prescription for the specific machine and mask to a home-care company in your insurance network. You may have a choice of home-care companies, depending on your insurance.
5. Ask your home-care provider about CPAP maintenance. You are entitled to a replacement mask, new filters, and new tubing as you continue to use CPAP. The frequency depends on your insurance, but the time frame should be no longer than six months. Also, If you begin to experience problems with your mask or equipment, do not hesitate to contact your home-care company for new supplies.
6. Maintain an open line of communication with the technicians at your sleep lab and the home-care company. As new technological developments emerge in CPAP equipment, your technical staff can help guide you on features of machines or new types of masks.
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