CPAP Masks

Manufacturers and the CDC both recommend cleaning Lofta CPAP supplies like masks and hoses with a solution of soapy water. Specific hose brushes help clean the interior of a CPAP machine hose to prevent bacteria and mold from accumulating. UV-based cleaners can be used to sanitize CPAP masks, but items should still be cleaned with soap and water. Regardless of your cleaning practice, it’s important to periodically replace these items to maintain healthy therapy.

You can prevent nose sores from a CPAP mask by starting with a properly fitted mask. Whether you’re using a CPAP nasal pillow or full CPAP headgear, masks should form a good seal without too much pressure on the face. Other tips to help prevent nose sores are to use ointments such as Vaniply or Lanolin Ointment or to use cushion covers that provide a softer interface between skin and mask.

CPAP masks are prescription items that can be purchased through authorized durable medical equipment sellers as long as you have a valid prescription. Today, there are many options for buying CPAP Masks and other CPAP accessories online. Lofta carries a great selection of masks from industry leaders including Resmed, Philips Respironics, and Fisher & Paykel.

There is no such thing as the “best” CPAP mask for sleep apnea therapy. Masks are determined based on comfort levels, favored body position for sleep and the way the user breathes during the day while awake and not exerting themselves. If you find yourself using your mouth to breathe during the day, a full face CPAP mask that covers the mouth will be the best option. For nasal breathing, a minimal mask style like CPAP nasal pillows, nasal masks, or nasal cradles would be the “better” option.

A CPAP mask is the interface that will connect with the standard 6’ CPAP tubing, which is connected to a CPAP machine. The mask will allow the pressurized air to be directed into the upper airway. There are thousands of CPAP masks out there from nasal CPAP mask, full face CPAP mask or a CPAP nasal pillows, and each user should be able to find a mask suitable to their comfort levels.

A tube/hose up style mask is generally recommended for side sleepers as it allows for more freedom and maneuverability.

Typical CPAP users replace their masks every 4 - 6 months, but replace the cushions every 1-3 months depending on wear and tear. Replacing your mask and cushion periodically will improve therapy effectiveness by improving fit, reducing leaks, and reducing abrasions caused by imperfections in a mask. Memory foam style mask cushions need to be replaced more frequently (recommendation is every 30 days). Lofta stocks a range of Resmed CPAP replacement parts, including CPAP nose piece replacement and CPAP hose replacement parts, amongst other supplies.

It is recommended to use a non-alcoholic sanitizing wipe to wipe down your mask cushion on a daily basis. Refrain from wipes that include heavy ingredients like bleach or alcohol, as these can wear down the silicon and cause premature breakage. At Lofta, we recommend Purdoux CPAP mask wipes.

This can often depend on your physician. CPAP replacement parts should be refreshed every three to five years, but your doctor may require an annual sleep study to ensure that sleep therapy is working.

The initial sleep study will be used as a baseline for diagnosis, and then to determine how effective the treatment is. Bear in mind that any patient needs to be consistent in applying sleep therapy by using a CPAP nasal cushion, a full face CPAP mask or the CPAP device prescribed by your physician each night for optimal results.

If you find that sleep apnea symptoms are returning with the use of your current treatment, including daytime fatigue, snoring, mood swings, headaches, and increased irritability, it’s time to contact your doctor.

Having the most comfortable CPAP machine possible is crucial for effective treatment of sleep apnea. If your mask is uncomfortable, check that the pressure and fitment is correct with your physician before trying a new CPAP mask.

There are a variety of masks to choose from, including full face CPAP headgear masks, CPAP nose pillows and hybrid options. The 30-day Lofta CPAP mask trial allows you to find your perfect mask fit.

There are other treatments available such as surgery for obstructive sleep apnea, a weight management program depending on the patient’s lifestyle habits, and OSA dental devices, but sleep apnea machines remain the most effective form of treatment to date.

Most patients suffering from sleep apnea are advised to use their CPAP machines for the rest of their lives.

Successful sleep therapy can lead to remission, but most patients continue to use their CPAP masks for sleeping throughout their lives, which can lead to an increased lifespan of 12-15 years.

If your machine, CPAP mask and CPAP parts are not correctly fitted, it can increase the likelihood of failed therapy, with an estimated 50% of diagnosed patients discontinuing or failing therapy for this reason.

That’s why having the most comfortable CPAP mask for your style of sleeping is crucial to successful treatment of sleep apnea.

If you are waking up with a dry throat, or experiencing the air pressure blowing into your eyes, your mask may be leaking.

One of the primary reasons patients give up on sleep therapy is because of leaking masks. Your CPAP headgear or CPAP nasal pillow may leak if it is old, dirty, or not fitted correctly. It’s critical to correct this as quickly as possible to ensure effective and continued treatment.

It may also be because you’re using the incorrect CPAP equipment for your sleeping style. Lofta CPAP supplies cover all manner of sleeping needs and positions. Speak to your physician about finding the right fit for your requirements.