Sleep Apnea, Sleeping Disorders & Why Can't I Sleep?: Recent Episodes

WellAwareSystems

Our PodCast is to discuss sleeping disorders such as sleep apena, which prevent you from getting a good rest. We review options for the best OSA therapy such as CPAP machines. Learn more: https://wellawaresystems.com/

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/benefits-of-sleeping-naked/

If you haven’t tried sleeping naked yet, now is the moment. This essay will show you how sleeping naked can help you obtain a better night’s sleep, reduce stress, and even lose weight.

There is currently little scientific research on the implications of sleeping naked, nor reliable data on the percentage of persons in the United States who do it. Although some people believe that sleeping naked makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

How Sleeping Naked Can Help You Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Some people believe that sleeping naked makes it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. However, these possible benefits of sleeping nude have not been investigated in depth by academics. It’s worth a shot if sleeping naked helps you get the needed seven to nine hours of sleep each night. According to research, sleeping naked has the potential to improve reproductive health, partner connection, and self-esteem.

The Advantages of Getting More Sleep

Adults should sleep at least seven hours every night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but one-third of adults2 sleep less than that. Sleep deprivation is a big issue because of the harmful effects it has on one’s health. Sleep deprivation, for example, raises the risk of heart disease and diabetes3, among other issues.

Your mental and physical health will improve if sleeping naked helps you sleep better. A better night’s sleep is linked to:

• Heart disease, diabetes, and other significant health problems are less likely to occur.

• A more powerful immune system

• Improved attention and clarity of thought

• Improved reasoning and problem-solving abilities

• Increased workplace productivity

• Decreased depression risk

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/what-is-a-bipap-machine/

If you suffer from sleep apnea or another breathing disorder, your doctor may have recommended a bilevel positive airway pressure machine, or BiPAP. It’s a gadget that helps you breathe. It’s also known as a BPAP.

CPAP and APAP devices are well-known, but there are also bilevel positive airway pressure (BPAP) machines.

We’ll look at what BPAP machines are, how they function, and what to expect if you use one in this post.

What exactly is a bipap machine?

Your diaphragm, a muscle in your chest that helps you breathe, moves downward as you take in air. This lowers the pressure in your lungs’ tubes and sacs, allowing air to enter. If you have a condition like sleep apnea, there may be moments when you can’t get the air you need (for example, when sleeping).

A BiPap machine can assist force air into your lungs if you have problems breathing. A mask or nasal plugs connected to the ventilator are worn. The gadget inflates your lungs with pressurised air. It’s called “positive pressure ventilation” because the gadget uses air pressure to help open your lungs.

A BPAP is a type of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) therapy that helps people breathe more easily.

BPAP machines are available for use in hospitals and at home for persons who require them.

BPAP machines for home use are small, around the size of a toaster. A tube connects the machine to a mask, which is worn over your nose and mouth.

BPAP devices, like other ventilators, employ pressure to force air into your lungs. This opens the lungs, increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood and decreasing carbon dioxide levels, depending on the settings.

The term “bilevel” refers to the fact that these machines have two air pressure settings:

  • When you inhale, BPAP machines increase the air pressure. Inspiratory positive airway pressure is another name for this (IPAP).
  • The gadget lowers the air pressure when you exhale. Expiratory positive airway pressure is the term for this (EPAP).

A timer on some BPAP devices can be set to maintain a specified number of breaths per minute.

Who should use a bipap machine?

If you have a medical condition that makes it difficult for you to breathe at times, you may benefit from a BiPAP. BiPAPs can help with obstructive sleep apnea, a dangerous disorder in which your breathing continuously stops and starts while you sleep. It can be life-threatening in some circumstances.

If you have:

  • An asthma flare-up, your doctor may consider a BiPAP.
  • COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a condition that affects the lungs (COPD)
  • Coronary artery disease or congestive heart failure
  • You have a neurological or neuromuscular condition.
  • Hypoventilation syndrome due to obesity
  • Difficulty breathing following a medical operation or as a result of another medical issue

A BiPAP is generally not for you if you have problems breathing most or all of the time, or if you have trouble swallowing. Instead, your doctor might suggest that you use another gadget to help you obtain adequate oxygen.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Is Sleep Apnea Something That Gets Passed Down Through Generations?
Originally posted:
https://wellawaresystems.com/is-sleep-apnea-hereditary/

When a member of your family is diagnosed with a health problem, it’s normal to wonder if you’ll get it as well. If you grew up with a parent who suffers from sleep apnea, you may wonder, “Is sleep apnea genetic?” It’s a perfectly reasonable inquiry. We don’t know what percentage of the population has sleep apnea, but we do know that it’s a fairly prevalent sleep problem that affects a large number of people1. Given the wide range of difficulties that can result from sleep apnea, anyone with a family member who suffers from the disorder may find it especially important to determine if there is a genetic link. You’ve arrived at the right location if you feel as though we’re speaking directly to you. Continue reading to find out more about the risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, as well as whether any of these illnesses has a hereditary component.

While there are a variety of circumstances that can put someone at risk for sleep apnea, there is a good chance that it is genetic. There’s a good possibility you’re suffering from sleep apnea if you have a serious condition like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or an endocrine or metabolic disorder. Smoking and the use of alcohol, sedatives, and opioids are all known to raise the risk of sleep apnea.

However, if you are suffering signs of sleep apnea such as loud snoring, loss of energy, daytime lethargy (even after a full night’s sleep), morning headaches, or sadness, you should talk to your doctor about a family history of this serious disorder. Physical features inherited from your parents, such as your face and skull shape, upper airway muscle characteristics, and body fat content and distribution, may all have a role in whether or not you develop sleep apnea.

A high body mass index (BMI) – your height to weight ratio – is commonly associated with sleep apnea. Obesity is linked to sleep apnea, but it can also affect those who are in good shape. Many people, including men and women, the elderly, and even toddlers, can suffer from sleep apnea. Some of the same symptoms that adults have, such as snoring, noisy breathing, chronic mouth breathing, restless sleep, and lethargy or tiredness, can also be seen in children.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/importance-of-good-sleep-for-health/

Why a Good Nights Sleep is SO Important Your Health

We all know that sleep is important for our health. But, sometimes it can be difficult to get the amount of quality sleep we need.

What is sleep?

Sleep is a natural state of the body in which the mind and body come to rest. During sleep, your heart rate, breathing, temperature, blood pressure, and metabolism all slow down (or “go down”) slightly. Sleep is most refreshing when you give your body adequate time for sleep each night. If you sleep too little or sleep poorly one night, it takes time for your body to return to its normal rhythm.

How sleep problems can affect your health

There are many sleep disorders that may interfere with sleep. If you sleep less than the recommended minimum of seven to eight hours per night, this can affect your overall health and well-being in both the short term (e.g., drowsy driving) and long term (e.g., risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease).

What is normal sleep?

Sleep has two different phases: rapid eye movement sleep (REM sleep), which is associated with dreaming; and non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREM or “deep” sleep), which lacks vivid dreams but is still important for good mental health. These two types of sleep alternate throughout night as you cycle through periods of sleep and wakefulness.

How much sleep should you be getting?

Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep per night, though some people may require more or less sleep than the average. The amount of sleep needed per night is most likely determined by genetics; however people can train themselves to sleep better (e.g., limiting your caffeine intake). If you are considering changing your sleep schedule, make sure that there aren’t any underlying medical conditions causing your sleep difficulties; otherwise it can cause further health problems if not taken care of.

Should I sleep longer on weekends?

There’s no need to sleep longer at the weekend, unless you sleep less than 5 or 6 hours during weekdays which can make you sleep deprived. If sleep deprivation is not a concern for you, go ahead and sleep in, but do your best to get back into a regular sleep schedule on Monday morning.

Why am I sleeping badly despite sleeping more?

If you sleep longer but still feel tired during the day, there might be an additional problem. You could sleep too lightly or your sleep could be interrupted. For example, sleep apnea disorder is a sleep breathing disorder which leads to sleep disruption and poor sleep quality.

How do I get a better nights sleep?

  1. Take a hot bath with lavender salts to relax your muscles
  2. Turn off all electronics at least thirty minutes before bed time
  3. Create a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom by lighting candles and playing calming music
  4. Set an alarm on your phone or computer so you do not oversleep
  5. Avoid caffeine after 3pm, as it will interfere with sleep patterns
  6. Drink chamomile tea before bed for its sedative properties

We hope you have found the advice we’ve given on how to get a better night’s sleep helpful. If so, please share this post with your friends and family who may be struggling with getting quality rest at night. In addition, don’t just read this article – take action! Get yourself to bed now and start sleeping well tonight. Tomorrow will feel amazing as a result of being rested from last night’s deep slumber.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/how-to-stop-night-sweats/

What Are Night Sweats?

If you’re one of the many people who suffers from night sweats (excessive sweating at night), you might be wondering what the causes are and whether you should be concerned.

“True night sweats are described as extreme hot flashes that occur at night and can saturate sleepwear and sheets,” says Laura M. Rosch, DO, a Wheaton, Illinois-based osteopathic internal medicine specialist.

If you get night sweats on a regular basis, they are interrupting your sleep, or they are accompanied by a fever or other symptoms, such as unexplained weight loss, you should see your doctor.

Rather than treating symptoms, doctors of osteopathic medicine, or DOs, focus on prevention by looking at how your lifestyle and surroundings affect your health.

Night sweats are caused by a variety of factors.

Your level of anxiety

If you’re anxious or agitated, you’ve definitely experienced the terror of attempting to fall asleep (or back to sleep after waking up).

Dr. Ram’s stress-reduction recommendations before bedtime:

  • Schedule time to unwind. Take a warm shower before night, avoid screen time and devices, or read a book.
  • Create a soothing environment. Make sure the lights are dimmed, the music is muted or muffled, and the environment is cool.
  • Consult your physician. Recurrent or long-term anxiety and tension could indicate a more serious mental health problem, such as anxiety disorder or depression.

You’re in the throes of menopause

Unlike hot flashes, which occur during the day, night sweats are a typical nighttime symptom in women going through menopause. In most cases, the symptoms of night sweats will wake you up after they have already occurred.

Many women, on the other hand, discover that by making simple lifestyle modifications like: • Eating well, they may reduce night sweats and other symptoms of menopause with reasonable ease.

  • Exercising on a regular basis.
  • Defending the skin from the sun’s rays.
  • Making sure you’re getting the correct vitamins and supplements (particularly vitamin D3 if you live in a northern climate).
  • Maintaining a high level of involvement in life.

According to Dr. Ford, if you’re going through menopause, eliminating triggers like caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and cigarettes may help you feel better.

Types of Medication

Night sweats have been linked to a number of medications8. These include antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), steroids, and fever-relieving medications like aspirin or acetaminophen, which might increase sweating in some people.

Caffeine

Caffeine use might lead to excessive perspiration. Night sweats might be exacerbated by alcohol and drug use9.

Chronic sweating

Idiopathic hyperhidrosis is a medical disease in which the body produces excessive perspiration on a regular basis for no apparent reason.

Tumors

Night sweats can be a warning sign of certain cancers. Undiagnosed cancer, on the other hand, is characterised by extra symptoms such as unexplained weight loss and fever.

Hypoglycemia

Because hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can cause sweating, patients who take blood sugar-lowering drugs, such as insulin and oral anti-diabetics, may sweat at night.

Anxiety

Stress and emotional issues that cause you to sweat during the day can often lead you to sweat at night.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/is-it-possible-to-use-a-cpap-machine-without-water/

Many CPAP users wake up with an excessively dry mouth, which can be bothersome at best and cause headaches, nosebleeds, or chapped sore lips at worst. A CPAP humidifier, which utilises water to keep your nose and mouth wet and moist while you sleep with your CPAP machine on, can help to reduce these issues.

A CPAP machine collects air from the surroundings and sends it into the mask at a constant pressure. As a result, your nostrils and mouth are under a lot of strain. During this technique, the air in the mask might become dry and cold, producing dryness and chapped lips, especially during the winter months. Side effects include dry mouth, a burning sensation in the nasal canal, and other issues.

Before you take in the compressed air, a CPAP humidifier provides necessary moisture. The humidity level in your space determines the amount of humidifier you should use. It’s usually a good idea to keep an eye on the moisture level in the area where you sleep if you use a CPAP machine.

Low humidity in the CPAP chamber can also induce sneezing and a runny nose. As the nasal canal grows drier, the vascular tissue in the nose secretes mucus as a lubricating mechanism. This results in sneezing and a runny nose. It is not always the case that having a humidifier in the room makes a difference.

Most CPAP machines now come with an integrated humidifier or can be equipped with a separate, detachable humidifier. The humidifier aids in breathing and sleeping, as well as avoiding nasal congestion, sneezing, and other bothersome symptoms.

The CPAP humidifier relies primarily on the heating plate to keep the air heated when water is unavailable, however this cannot function as a stand-alone device and may even destroy the tank. A bad odour has also been noticed by certain customers from a water chamber that isn’t filled with water.

If you use a humidifier, you can’t use your CPAP machine without water.

However, there may be instances when you wake up and discover that the water tank has run dry. The heat settings may need to be modified if this is the case. This happens most of the time when your CPAP machine is set at a high pressure, thus lowering the heat settings should keep the water warm till morning.

Even though you are not using heat to heat the water, using a cpap machine without any water provides moisture to the air. However, determining whether you can survive without humidification is a straightforward process. Remove the humidifier from the equation entirely. Depending on who you are, the amount of moisture in the air you breathe varies.

However, not utilising a humidifier (or using one that isn’t working due to a lack of water) can raise the risk of:

  • Infections
  • Gum disease
  • Nose bleeds
  • Inflammation

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally Posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/cpap-mask-irritating-skin/

Why Is My CPAP Mask Irritating My Skin?A continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machine is a lifesaver for patients who suffer from sleep apnea. All night, CPAPs force air through the airway, preventing apnea episodes in which breathing stops. The CPAP face mask, on the other hand, can cause irritation, which can be particularly severe in patients with sensitive skin. Redness, sores, pimples, blisters, and rashes can be painful as well as irritating. Here are some tips to help you cope with the discomfort of using a CPAP sleep mask.

Is it time to replace your CPAP mask?

If you detect any of the following indicators, it’s time to replace your CPAP sleep mask:

  • Dryness
  • The worn-out cushion
  • Discoloration (yellowing) or other blemishes
  • Excessive leaking, or more than usual

Are You Wearing The Incorrect Mask?

CPAP masks aren’t for everyone. There are numerous manufacturers, each of which produces at least a few different models. A full mask that covers the nose and mouth is the most common type of CPAP mask, and you most certainly have one. That is, however, far from the only choice. A CPAP mask that merely fits under your nose is also available. If you have inflammation around your mouth, this is an excellent choice. Another alternative is to obtain a mask that goes all the way around the face, which distributes the mask’s pressure more evenly.

How Well Does Your CPAP Mask Fit?

Masks that don’t fit properly are a major source of irritation issues with CPAP masks. Masks that are either too big or too tiny might cause problems, so be sure yours is the right size before you use it.

Rubbing for eight hours, no matter how gentle, will irritate your skin. If your mask is overly tight, it will irritate your skin by pressing against it and trapping the sweat and oil it produces.

Once you’ve found the right size, you can fine-tune it by adjusting the straps. The straps are usually designed to accommodate most adults, however they may be too short in some circumstances to be comfortable. You may be able to order a custom-sized strap to match your CPAP sleep mask in these cases.

Begin by playing around with your mask. If it’s too tight, loosen it up for a week and see if it helps. Try going a little tighter if it slips around on your face and doesn’t stay in place. With a little trial and error, you might be able to solve your mask problem.

Think About CPAP Mask Hygiene

Oils on your skin could be one factor causing the cushion to slide. Wash your face every night before putting on your CPAP mask to help avoid this from occuring. Applying lotion to your face can have the same effect as having oily skin, causing chaffing as the cushion moves around. A CPAP sleep mask’s fit might be affected by facial hair. If your mask does not fit properly because you have a beard or moustache, consider cutting or removing your facial hair.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/best-humidity-level-for-cpap-machine/

Why have a CPAP humidifier?

If you’re already using a CPAP machine and are having problems with nasal dryness, congestion, or discomfort, humidification can assist.

When we breathe regularly, our nose and throat assist in humidifying (moistening and warming) the air we inhale. The body can’t keep up with the increased air flow from the CPAP, which can result in dryness or congestion.

Nasal congestion and dryness of the nose and throat affect up to 40% of CPAP users. Patients may be unable to continue their treatment because of these effects. Humidifiers for CPAPs give moisture and warmth to the air that is delivered by the machine. This will help to alleviate feelings of dryness and congestion, as well as increase overall comfort and compliance.

A CPAP humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air you breathe through your CPAP machine by releasing moisture from a small tank of distilled water. This can help you feel more at peace when using CPAP.

CPAP therapy can cause dry mouth, dry throat, cracked lips, nosebleeds, chest pain, and sinus infections by reducing moisture in the nasal airways. When using CPAP therapy, humidifiers are utilised to give moisture to the air, preventing these difficulties.

Built-in and external humidifiers are the two types of humidifiers available. The CPAP machine includes built-in humidifiers. External humidifiers attach to your CPAP machine as independent components.

You should always check your CPAP machine’s manual or contact the manufacturer for recommendations on which humidifiers are the best options for your machine.

Adjusting humidity levels throughout the year

Humidity levels will need to be adjusted frequently as the seasons change or if a person travels to a different climate. If you’re congested or dry, turn up the humidity (and tube temperature if possible), and if you have any condensation or water in your tube or mask, turn down the humidity (and/or turn up the tube temperature if possible).

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/does-cpap-stop-snoring/

CPAP treatment is used to help people with sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes the person to stop breathing while they are sleeping, because of this, their oxygen levels drop which makes them jolt awake.

Snoring happens when you are sleeping and there is a build-up of mucus or soft tissues in the throat that vibrates as you breathe. Snoring can be stopped by using a cpap machine, because it holds your lower jaw forward which prevents soft tissues from blocking the airway. This article explores if snoring will stop when you use a cpap machine.

Is CPAP therapy effective at reducing or eliminating snoring?

Yes, in the vast majority of cases. Snoring while using a CPAP machine is not typical. If you’re still snoring after many days of using your CPAP mask, consult a sleep specialist. Talk to them about your machine and mask brand to see if there are any adjustments that can be made. Adjusting your CPAP settings on your own is not a good idea.

Snoring due to sleep apnea

People who snore are far more likely to develop thickening of their carotid artery, a condition known as atherosclerosis, according to a recent study conducted at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. Thickening of these arteries can significantly reduce blood flow to the brain, weakening artery walls and raising the risk of an aneurysm or stroke.

Although there are a variety of remedies available to help with minor snoring, sufferers should first seek medical advice. If sleep apnea is present during sleep, a simple sleep study can quickly establish this. Furthermore, this will aid in determining whether the condition is mild or chronic, as well as the most likely causes and treatment options. The initial diagnosis will also reflect whether additional sleep testing are required to determine if the person has OSA. What about the person who snores but does not have OSA? So, what can you do to stop snoring?

Sleep apnea and snoring aren’t exclusive, although they go hand in hand. There are many people who snore but don’t have sleep apnea, and the opposite is true as well.

If you’re worried about having sleep apnea, please do ensure that you speak with a medical expert who knows about this condition.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Your CPAP Equipment — How Often to Change CPAP Filter and Other ComponentsDo I need to maintain my CPAP device? How often to change the CPAP filter? Do I need to clean my nosepiece?
These are some of the most common questions when people first start using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP.
We’re here to tell you that you need to clean your CPAP equipment regularly and replace specific components. Some of the most common problems you’ll probably face using a poorly maintained device include:

  • Skin irritations such as rashes or pressure sores.
  • Aerophagia (the medical term for eating air) leading to gas or bloating.
  • Stuffy nose and nose bleeds
  • Dry mouth
  • Stuff nose
  • Mouth, sinus, and lung infections from accumulated germs and bacteria.
  • In some cases, more severe health issues such as fatigue, heart arrhythmias, and high blood pressure have been reported when the CPAP device is poorly maintained or used in a defective state.

Below, we’ll discuss how to take good care of your CPAP device. We’ll go over how often to change the CPAP filter and other parts.

What CPAP Equipment Parts Need Maintenance?

The CPAP Mask

The mask is the part of the device that covers your nose and mouth, depending on your device’s model. It transports pressurized air to the airways. It’s crucial you keep your mask in top condition, as it significantly affects your CPAP machine’s performance. Once you notice any leaks on your mask, or it’s suddenly become uncomfortable — it’s time to replace the mask. You can explore getting a different model if you think it’s uncomfortable due to the mask’s style.

How Often Should You Change the Tubing?

You should replace the tubing after three months of usage. Using it beyond that reduces the efficacy of the CPAP treatment.

We recommend using distilled water to reduce the risk of bacteria and mineral buildup.

When Should You Replace the Humidifier Water Chamber?

Change the water chamber after six months. Within those six months, endeavor to remove and clean the water chamber occasionally. You can do this every thirty days. You should also change the water daily.

What About the CPAP Device?

Yes, you also need to replace the device at some point. Your device warranty only lasts for one year, so you should consider getting insurance coverage that kicks in once the warranty of your CPAP machine expires. If you travel a lot, the machine will often degrade faster, so you may want to get a backup device.

When Should You Replace Your CPAP Machine?

The average lifespan of a CPAP machine is 5 – 7 years. So, depending on the frequency of use or exponential improvements in technology, you should aim to replace the device every 3 – 7 years.

Bottom Line

The filter has a reputation of being the most important CPAP part to clean. But how often to change the CPAP filter depends on the filter you’re using. If you have a foam filter, you can expect to change it every six months. If it’s paper, then every two weeks is best.

However, do not forget to clean and maintain every part of your CPAP machine! The chinstrap is just as important to keep in pristine condition as the tubing.

Keep this guide in mind so your CPAP is always as clean and efficient as possible.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

The Best Ways to Keep Your Machine Clean: CPAP Wipes, Soapy Water, and a Little TLCA CPAP machine helps those who struggle with sleep apnea or similar conditions to breathe easier and sleep better. Sleep apnea is a serious health condition known to cause frequent disturbances throughout the night, and people with this condition have to deal with frequent sleep disruptions. They can never achieve the full rest their bodies need.
With a CPAP machine, the user can receive a continuous supply of steady oxygen through their nose and mouth. This air supply alleviates many of the symptoms of sleep apnea as it keeps the airways open throughout the night. It can significantly assist sufferers in getting a full night’s sleep so they can greet the day with renewed energy and vigor.

What Does a CPAP Machine Do?
Specifically, the compressor associated with your CPAP machine works to create a continuous stream of pressurized air that travels through the necessary tubing. This system then supplies your airways with constant oxygen, allowing your airways to stay open for longer.
The airstream also works to move or prevent blockages, so you don’t have to wake up repeatedly to clear your throat. Your CPAP machine handles that for you. It directly combats sleep apnea symptoms and similar sleeping disorders that would otherwise disturb you throughout the night.
How to Take Care of Your CPAP Machine
As we mentioned above, maintenance is essential. Thankfully, we aren’t talking about complex engineering. All your CPAP machine requires is a little housekeeping. Listed below are some of the best ways to keep your machine in top condition.
Use CPAP Wipes
CPAP wipes often come in easy-to-use dispensers, so you don’t need to worry about drying them out either. Simply pull one out each morning, gently cleanse your CPAP mask, and get on with your day!

What You Should Never Use
Now we have covered what you should be doing with your CPAP machine, let’s cover some of the don’ts. This will help you avoid some potentially costly mistakes and improve your CPAP machine’s overall quality.

  • Bleach: Not only will this harsh substance damage the silicone of your mask, but it will also potentially irritate your skin if not rinsed properly. It is safer to avoid it altogether.
  • Hand Sanitizer: Though they have proven to be the savior in various situations, hand sanitizer is not as great for CPAP masks.
  • Antibacterial Wipes: Like the two entries above, antibacterial wipes are simply too strong to use on your CPAP mask. There is a reason CPAP wipes exist—they contain the right ingredients. Don’t overdo it with your machine!

You should also be careful with where you place your machine too. Direct sunlight is a no-go, as the excess heat can cause engineering faults. Additionally, don’t place your machine near curtains or similar fabric obstructions. It can block the airflow and prevent it from reaching optimal function. Ideally, your machine should be in a shaded, level spot that is not too close to any other furniture.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your CPAP Machine Healthy

By far, the easiest way to keep your machine clean is through the use of CPAP wipes. They can arrive in various pack sizes, and you only need to use a singular wipe each morning. One pack could last you up to two months! Try to fit your mask-cleaning into your daily routine, and soon it will become second nature.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

The Best CPAP Cleaning Soaps for Cleaning Your EquipmentIf you want to ensure the best possible therapy when it comes to your sleep apnea, you’ll need to ensure that your CPAP equipment is spotless. You’ll need to maintain every component for nightly use, including the masks, tubing, and your humidifier tub. Routine cleaning will meet optimum health and safety standards and allow you to sleep easily without (hopefully) any interruptions.

Why Use Gentle and Unscented Soaps?
Before we start, it’s important to note how vital gentle, unscented soap is for cleaning your CPAP equipment.
Unclean machines and equipment can cause bacteria build-up and mold. Not to mention, the dust and dirt and cause allergy flare-ups, sinus infections, and even potential equipment breakdowns. Using a mild and gentle soap, you can clean your tubing and masks and prevent various issues. Unscented soaps are also less likely to trigger any allergic reactions and general discomfort when using your apparatus.

The 3 Best CPAP Cleaning Soaps
Now that we’ve covered the health, safety, and scientific side of things, let’s delve straight into the best CPAP cleaning soap. By using any of these CPAP cleaner products, you’ll be able to rest easy knowing you used recommended soaps that can thoroughly wash your equipment safely and effectively.
1) Johnson’s Baby Shampoo
If you’re concerned about allergies and reactions, even with the mildest and gentlest soaps, then you should give Johnson’s Baby Shampoo a try.
Made from hypoallergenic materials and at an affordable price, this soap is a perfect option for cleaning every part of your CPAP machine.
What’s more, this product does not contain any of the harmful materials present in many soaps. It doesn’t include the use of parabens, dyes, and sulfates. With that assurance, you can clean your CPAP equipment with peace of mind. Mix a small amount with water and clean and rinse your tubing and mask.

The soap targets body oils and removes them from the surfaces of masks and hoses. It also neutralizes any odors that may have built up inside the apparatus.
By investing in this specific soap, you get a product specifically designed to clean CPAP equipment and better therapy for your sleep apnea.

What’s more, the solution cleans and sanitizes every part of your CPAP apparatus. It removes dirt, particles, bacteria, debris, and any viruses that may compromise your health if left untreated. This cleaning product is also scent-free, allowing it to neutralize odors that may arise from regularly using your apparatus. It also keeps fresh air flowing throughout the night, which is extremely important for lung health.
The soap is also irritant-free, with no traces of harmful substances sometimes used in other CPAP cleaning products. It’s free from benzisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone, which can irritate skin and even bring on breathing problems. Rest assured, you’ll be safe when using this hypoallergenic, color-free soap.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring you clean your CPAP equipment regularly is extremely important. Not only does a fresh machine make it easier to manage your condition, but it also prevents you from developing any other harmful viruses or health problems from bacteria build-up and dirt.
Using any one of these gentle and scent-free CPAP cleaning soap products, you can maintain your machine’s cleanliness with ease.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP Parts and Equipment for Sleep ApneaSleep apnea causes interruptions or pauses in your breathing while you sleep. It’s a health condition that can be detrimental to your wellbeing and poses more serious concerns than snoring—it can put you at risk of death.
Fortunately, CPAP machines help keep your airways open throughout the night.
If you are new to CPAP machines, you may have many questions. In this article, we’ll go over CPAP parts and how to get the best out of them.
What Is a CPAP Machine?
A CPAP (or continuous positive airway pressure) machine is a device prescribed by doctors to treat sleep apnea disorders.
Obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA, is one of the most common causes of sleep apnea in adults. For those who have it, the throat or airways briefly close many times throughout the night. These closures can impede sleep and even stop breathing for seconds at a time.
CPAP machines work to correct obstructed airways. They send a steady flow of oxygen into the nose and mouth while the user sleeps, which keeps the airways open.
CPAP Parts and Equipment
All these machines have the same CPAP parts and components:
• A motor in a base unit
• A cushioned mask
• A tube that connects the motor to the mask
• Headgear frame with adjustable face straps for a more comfortable fit
• Elbow pieces (joints)
• Air filter
• Humidifier (optional)

Cleaning and Maintaining CPAP Parts and Components
Most CPAP parts consist of plastic, rubber, and silicone, making them easy to clean. The moisture in the machine components may damage the materials and lead to bacteria or mold buildup. It’s essential to clean your CPAP parts every day after use and replace parts when torn, broken, or damaged.
CPAP cleaners are a valuable asset for sanitizing your machine and preventing bacterial growth. You must clean the mask, headgear, tubing, and water chamber regularly to get the best use out of your CPAP machine.
If you do not want to purchase a dedicated CPAP cleaner, you can remove all the components and soak them in hot, soapy water. You can use an ultrasonic tank or activated oxygen (ozone) as well. Others use UV sanitizers, which clean the CPAP parts and components without getting them wet.

Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CPAP machine cost?
CPAP machines are the least “fancy” of the three types of sleep machines, the others being APAP and BiPAP machines. They typically cost between $300-700. You can contact your healthcare provider or insurance provider to see if they will cover part or all of the cost.
Does a CPAP machine require a prescription?
Yes, it requires a prescription. You can talk to your doctor to inquire about one if you find you have trouble falling or staying asleep. They will often request a sleep study to find out more about your sleeping habits to determine if you need a CPAP machine.

Conclusion
CPAP machines work by delivering a stream of pressurized air through your airways to keep them from collapsing. These machines can help you fall and stay asleep so that you can get a better night of sleep.
Learning about your CPAP parts and maintenance can be confusing. However, you can always call your healthcare provider about treatment options and education.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP and Allergies: 4 Ways You Can Improve Rest

As you can probably imagine, a CPAP and allergies don’t go hand in hand. These devices are meant to make breathing easier for you at night, and if seasonal allergens are getting in the way, you’ll have difficulty feeling comfortable and getting rest.

People with Sleep Apnea can develop more serious reactions to allergens than others by causing swelling in their airways which itself causes a build-up of congestion and can make it much more difficult to breathe. That’s why you’ll have to do some extra maintenance work with your device to prevent allergies from getting in the way of a good night’s rest.

Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your CPAP and allergies.

1) Test Your CPAP and Allergies During the Day

When you unbox your CPAP machine for the first time, wear the mask attachment as you go about your daily routine. You can put it on as you read a book, eat, watch the TV. If you experience any trouble breathing while using the CPAP mask due to your allergies, you’ll know that night will bring trouble.

Wear the mask in the daytime to get a sense of how your allergies will affect your CPAP at night. You’ll know how much the allergies will limit your breathing early on rather than when you need to get rest.

2) Find a Safe Spot for Your CPAP Machine

If you’re using a CPAP machine for the first time, you’ll need to find a suitable place to put it to keep it clean and enjoy a good night’s sleep. If you leave your device in a dusty environment or near a window with pollen blowing in, CPAP and allergies will become a huge issue for you.

Here are some tips to decrease allergens from disturbing your sleep:

• Make sure that the location of the CPAP device is not in proximity to any allergy-triggering objects, such as flowers, food, or dust.

• Clean the entire area where you plan to place your CPAP machine before you turn it on. If it isn’t clean, there’s a danger the device could absorb some of these allergens through the air fan.

• Don’t put it on the floor. It could get damaged, or you could impede the air supply.

You may need to distance yourself from any animals in your home if they’re disturbing your allergies. Keep cats and dogs out of the room, so it’s protected from fur.

3) Regularly Clean Your CPAP machine

When it comes to managing your CPAP and allergies, you don’t just want to clean the area surrounding the device; you need to clean the part as well.

The tubing and mask of a CPAP machine can easily collect and store allergens such as dust and pollen. Even if there are no visible signs of dirt on your CPAP machines, these particles can build up and create breathing difficulties for your overnight.

Conclusion

If you have a CPAP and allergies, you can still get great rest. You just need to do some trial runs with your mask during the day to see how much your breathing will be affected at night.

It’s critical to store your device in an environment that’s free of dust, pollen, and other irritants. We also recommend regular cleaning and replacing parts of your device, such as the air filter and tubes. It’s easiest to purchase a CPAP cleaner to ensure all the dust and dirt comes off the device.

If you continue to experience difficulty breathing with your CPAP and allergies, check in with your doctor.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

SolidCleaner – CPAP Cleaner Product Review

Cleaning your CPAP mask and accessories is essential for keeping your machine working optimally, and to keep bacteria and infections at bay. If you don’t regularly clean your CPAP mask, you may notice a foul smell developing, which is likely to make you even more reluctant to use it.

Overview

The SolidCleaner cleaning device is one of the most compatible out there and comes with 15 and 22mm universal hose adapters so it’s highly likely it’ll fit your CPAP device. This sanitizer is compact enough to travel with and is straightforward to use: requiring just a click of the button to start the cleaning process.

What’s included

  • SolidCLEANER CPAP Cleaning Machine
  • SolidCLEANER Sanitizing Bag
  • SolidCLEANER T-adapter
  • User Manual
  • USB Charger Cable
  • Power Plug
  • Adapter & Connector

Cleaning Process

If left unclean, pathogens can build up in your CPAP mask, causing infections or illnesses such as Pneumonia, Bronchitis, and Nasal Passage Irritation. The SolidCleaner packs a lot of cleaning action into a compact device.

Useability

The SolidCleaner cleaning device is super simple to use and has been designed in a way that makes it accessible to a wide range of users. With simple one-button functioning, you can choose between two different cleaning cycles with just one click.

The device also features an automatic shut-off feature which kicks in when your cycle is complete and an LED light indicator that glows when your batteries are running low.

Portability

Weighing just 1.12 pounds, the SolidCleaner is highly portable and doesn’t take up huge amounts of space, unlike other CPAP cleaning devices. This machine is perfect for taking on vacation or for using on business trips, and the fact that it has a built-in 2600mAh upgraded high-capacity battery means it provides approximately 10-12 working cycles with a single charge, meaning you needn’t worry about finding an outlet to plug it into.

Cost

The SolidCleaner is great value for money considering that with other CPAP cleaning devices you often have to spend more on special adapters to suit certain masks. Instead, SolidCleaner provides you with everything you need, including the sanitizer bag, several adapters, and a USB charger, all for one very reasonable price, meaning you get plenty of bang for your buck. It also comes with a great 18-month hassle-free warranty and 24-hour online customer service.

What we like

  • The compact device is lightweight and portable for on-the-go cleaning
  • Provides thorough, high-standard sanitization for your CPAP mask and accessories
  • Compatible with a range of CPAP masks and accessories – comes with adapters
  • Great value for money; no need to buy extra products
  • Quiet operation
  • Simple to use, one-button function
  • Choice of two cleaning cycle durations

What we dislike

  • The cleaning process takes between 20-30 minutes which is longer than a lot of devices on the market.

Final Verdict

Overall, we think the SolidCleaner is a great product: it provides thorough oxygen-activated cleaning for your CPAP and CPAP accessories, it’s compact and lightweight for increased portability, and it’s compatible with a wide range of CPAP masks, meaning you won’t have to spend extra on adapters, as these are all included. This device is easy to use and has a one-button operation, so you can choose between two different cleaning cycles to suit your schedule.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

UV Light Sanitizer Box – Product ReviewA common way of cleaning CPAP equipment is by using a UV light sanitizer box. You can put your equipment inside of these boxes, and they will clean the equipment for you. They often have different operation modes and are free from ozone so that they won’t leave a distinct smell on your equipment. These boxes are really handy to have around for all of your cleaning needs.

Hygiene is really important when it comes to CPAP therapy, as you wouldn’t want to be exposing yourself to any harmful bacteria. These UV light sanitizer boxes are a great way to clean everything that you need to as they will kill all of the harmful germs and bacteria, leaving you with sparkling clean equipment.

Ultimately, any unclean equipment will result in bacteria being transported into your lungs, and with this cleaning machine, you can be assured that only the pressurized oxygen will be making its way through your airway.

What is the Clyn UVC Sanitizer Box?

The Clyn UVC sanitizer box has a highly innovative digital touch screen that can be easily used by anyone who needs to use it. It comes with three fundamental modes of operation that you can choose from, depending on what you need from the machine. The three modes are dry, sanitize, and automatic dry and sanitize. These take different amounts of time to perform their purpose. It will take 45 minutes for the dry setting, 15 minutes for the sanitize setting, and the automatic dry and sanitize will take a total of 60 minutes to complete the cycle.

The pre-built drying function is easy to use and is very efficient in thoroughly drying your equipment. The machine itself is free from all toxic materials, and it does not use any harmful chemicals that can be damaging to your health. The product itself comes with a full one year warranty, with 30 days to return your product for free if you aren’t happy with it.

Included in the Box

Everything that you need to set up and use this product is included in the box. You get the sanitizer drying device, a CPAP hose adapter, a user manual, 1-year warranty, and two air filters. You can start using this product as soon as it arrives.

Tips for CPAP Equipment Cleaning

You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines when it comes to cleaning your CPAP machine and equipment. These guidelines are there for a reason and will give you all of the information that you need to know. If for any reason you cannot locate this information, you can contact the manufacturer for more information on this subject. They will be able to recommend how often you should be cleaning different parts of your equipment.

What Does a UV Light Sanitizer Box Do?

A UV light sanitizer box is essentially a machine where you place your CPAP equipment inside, and the device uses the UV light to clean the products. UV light is the shortened version of ultraviolet light, which comes from ultraviolet radiation. UV light is actually present in sunlight, but the light in these machines is more concentrated.

Risks That Are Associated With Using UV Light Products

UV light can be used to disinfect your CPAP equipment only when the UV light does not escape into your surroundings. The product should be generating UV light in a way that will shield the user from exposure. These light sanitizer boxes should be able to close fully to stop the UV light from entering your home. If they do not, they are posing a health threat, and the severity of this depends on factors like wavelength, intensity, and exposure time.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Virtuclean CPAP Cleaner – CPAP Cleaner Product ReviewAnyone who is currently undergoing CPAP therapy will know that cleaning your machine and equipment is very important. If your machine isn’t being cleaned properly, then you can make yourself unwell due to a build-up of damp, and it isn’t a healthy practice. CPAP machines need to be kept clean and as dry as possible when not in use for them to be able to do their job properly.

CPAP machines work to provide a constant source of pressurized air to prevent your airways from collapsing while you sleep. If your machine and equipment aren’t clean, you will be allowing harmful bacteria and germs into your lungs, which can cause negative effects on your health.

Why Should I Clean my CPAP Machine?

The smallest amount of water in your CPAP machine and equipment can cause an ideal breeding environment where mold, bacteria, and viruses will thrive. If you don’t clean your CPAP machine and equipment, then you are allowing these things to grow inside it, which could put you at risk of respiratory problems and other health issues.

What is Virtuclean CPAP Cleaner?

Virtuclean CPAP cleaner is a waterless cleaning solution that is hassle-free and easy to use. It will kill 99% of bacteria that lives in your equipment, and you won’t need to use water, soap, or chemicals when using this product. Best of all, the cleaning cycle will be completed after just 30 minutes.

Virtuclean is a small and compact device that is easily portable so that you can take it around with you if you were going to travel. You can enjoy clean equipment that is free from any bacteria whether you are at home or away on holiday. The small machine weighs only half a pound, and it even comes with an 18-month warranty. You can say goodbye to bulky cleaning machines and harsh chemical products when you start using Virtuclean CPAP cleaner.

What You Should Know About Virtuclean CPAP Cleaner

There is only really one limitation when it comes to using this clean machine. The Virtuclean will attach to the end of the CPAP hose, and the end that you choose to attach it to will determine which area that you can clean. If you attach it to the machine end of the hose, the inside of the CPAP machine will not be cleaned. If you attach it to the mask end, the mask will not be cleaned. This will either require you to complete two cycles to clean all of the equipment, or you will have to clean the mask separately. The choice is yours to make.

Included in Your Purchase

When you purchase this product, there will be some items included in the box. Not only do you get an 18-month warranty when you buy the Virtuclean CPAP cleaner, but it also comes with everything that you need for set-up. Included in the box are the Virtuclean cleaning device, a wall plug system that can be connected to a USB cable, a travel bag and mask compartment, and a USB cable for you to use to charge the device.

Final Thoughts

The Virtuclean CPAP cleaner will do an amazing job at cleaning your CPAP machine and equipment. However, there are some negatives, as with any product that you will purchase, the positives definitely outweigh them. The fact that you don’t have to use any harsh chemicals when cleaning is a great benefit of this product, and this cleaning machine can make the difficult task of cleaning so much easier. The product can be quite costly, but it might be worth considering the splurge if you think it is going to be beneficial for you.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Respify CPAP Cleaner Review

CPAP machines work wonders for people with obstructive sleep apnea. It can help you get some much-needed rest while it maintains your airway.

The trade-off is that you need to clean the machine daily. You are breathing through this machine and apparatus, so you don’t want any germs or mold lingering.

Cleaning can be a bit of a hassle without a machine. You need to wash, rinse, and dry the tube, headgear, cushion, and reservoir. If you don’t dry out the tube and cushions, then you will end up with fungal growth.

To make it all a bit easier, CPAP cleaners have sprung up on the market. They use a variety of different cleaning and sanitizing methods to get rid of the bacteria.

We’re going to take a look at one CPAP cleaner on the market today. The Respify cleaner is made by Respify and uses O-zone to get rid of the bacteria.

Product Description

‘Small in size, big in performance, Respify harnesses the power of Activated Oxygen (O3/Ozone) to neutralize bacteria and odor in sleep equipment, without the work and mess.’ – Respify

The key thing about this product is that it uses activated oxygen to disinfect the equipment rather than UV light.

Activated oxygen has been used for a great number of years in a variety of industries including pool cleaning, food processing, brewing, and laundry services. It is one of the fastest-acting disinfectants available.

Availability & Pricing

The Respify cleaner is only available from the Respify website and other CPAP retailers. You won’t find it on Amazon or other large retailers.

You may be able to buy your cleaner from the same supplier as your CPAP machine. Not all CPAP retailers supply cleaners.

Performance

The best thing about this cleaner is the incredibly portable size. The bag measures 14” x 18” so it can fit all of your CPAP kit easily. It also folds down to wallet size which is super handy for traveling.

The cleaning machine is only 3” x 3” and can slip inside a pocket or a handbag. Again, this is ideal for traveling. Lugging a CPAP around no mean feat, but this cleaner makes the job a bit easier.

Customer Reviews

There are a limited amount of reviews available for this cleaner but those that are available are really quite positive.

Most customers are very happy with how much easier this makes their daily cleaning routine. They find the operation to be incredibly simple and highly effective.

A number of these happy users also mention traditionally cleaning the equipment at least once a week. As annoying as this may be, the Respify cleaner does reduce the frequency with which extended cleaning needs to happen.

Final Thoughts

The Respify, CPAP cleaner is a nifty bit of kit that can make CPAP maintenance easier. It is not a complete solution but it does the best possible job.

Pros

  • Portable and lightweight.
  • No ongoing maintenance.
  • No special adaptors are needed.
  • Can get 4 uses on a full battery.
  • Simple operation.

Cons

  • Does not remove physical dirt or grime.
  • Can create a bit of an odor.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Moocoo Cpap Cleaner

Cleaning a Cpap machine can be tricky at the best of times, with many users finding the task too daunting and complicated, preferring to skip it altogether. Many users have reported that they don’t even know how to clean their Cpap properly at all.

However, there are Cpap cleaners on the market that can help you keep your sleep breathing machine clean and hygienic, preventing the build-up of bacteria that could lead to a sinus infection, bacterial residue and even respiratory problems. If you do not take the time to use one of these cleaners to remove bacteria, you might find your machine getting clogged and damaged.

Ideally, you should be cleaning your Cpap machine daily to prevent bacteria from accumulating, particularly in the nosepiece, the mask and other accessories. Breathing in the bacteria could lead to you inhaling harmful microbes that will cause lung infections and other such illnesses.

What Is A Cpap Cleaner?

Cpap stands for ‘Continuous Positive Airway Pressure’ and are machines that encourage air into the nose and throat to prevent the airways from closing or collapsing during sleep.

These sleep machines are often used with sleep apnea, which is a condition that cuts off breathing, which can lead to a night of very disturbed sleep and ultimately, in very serious cases, can be fatal.

Moocoo Cpap Cleaner

The trusted brand Moocoo have upgraded the 2019 version of their Cpap cleaner, making a sleep machine sanitizer that is compact and lightweight, perfect for taking with you on vacation.

It features 360-degree cleaning that only takes 25 minutes to completely sterilize. This is a machine that makes for very fast and very effective cleaning.

Operations

This machine has a one-button power option, so it won’t require any additional set up. All you have to do is attach the cap hose into your filter bag, place your Cpap mask, nose piece and any other accessories into the bag. Then press a single button and leave it to clean for about half an hour.

There are no extra filters or cleaning liquids required with this cleaner, and it is extremely lightweight. The processor of the Moocoo cleaner is noiseless, so it won’t disturb anyone if you have to run it in a quiet place or during the night.

Pros And Cons

In summary, here is a simple breakdown of some of the pros and cons of the Moocoo Cpap cleaner.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight construction
  • Ideal for traveling
  • Automatic shut-off
  • No additional attachments
  • Simple single-button operation
  • Noiseless operation
  • Will save on battery life
  • Economical

Cons

  • Some users have complained that this unit does leave an odor after use.

We hope that our run-down of the Moocoo has helped you decide whether it is the correct Cpap cleaner for your machine. If so, we recommend that you waste no time! Pick one up today to get a worry-free and relaxed night’s rest as soon as possible.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Nuwave Cpap Sanitizer – Cpap Cleaner Product ReviewWith their patented easy-clean, Ozone sanitizing solution Nuwave claims to offer Cpap patients a simple option for cleaning their Cpap masks.

Nuwave has three purchasing options:

  • The Plus
  • The Combo
  • The Travel option

In this article, we’ll be looking at these three models offered by Nuwave. We’ll be breaking down their individual features to help you discover which model is right for you.

Let’s jump right into the review…

Nuwave Cpap Sanitizer reviews:

Shared features

Despite offering three purchasing options, the Nuwave machines have a lot in common. Below are our thoughts on their shared features.

Rechargeable Lithium Battery

Each Nuwave Cpap sanitizer comes with a rechargeable lithium battery. These batteries can go for 8-9 cleaning cycles before needing to be recharged. This ‘lifetime’ battery is included in the warranty of the product.

We like that they chose to go with a lithium battery, as although they are more expensive, they have much longer battery life and shelf life than the average battery. A tip for increasing the shelf life of your lithium battery is to not constantly have it charging, this will burn it out over time.

Another benefit of all the machines using the same battery is that you can switch between the batteries if you have multiple machines. Think of them as a universal charging cable.

Nuwave also sells individual replacement batteries on their website.

Kills 99.9% of Germs

Nuwave claims that using their unique cleaning method they are able to kill 99.9% of germs. In particular, their ‘proven platform of Ozone gas’ is able to kill E-coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Whilst this is pretty standard for a Cpap Sanitizer, this is still a great feature of Nuwave machines.

2 Year Warranty

Whilst this is not the longest warranty we have ever seen on a product, as Cpap cleaners go 2 years is quite impressive. Some of Nuwave’s competitors only offer a 1 year warranty.

The aesthetics

If you are someone who is looking for a Cpap sanitizer that’s going to look good on your nightstand then you might have to skip over this range. These sanitizers look halfway between a travel toothbrush carrier and a cool box.

The machines perform so well that this is not something that bothers us much. But if you want a good looking Cpap sanitizer, you’re going to have to look elsewhere.

Extras

Nuwave also offers free shipping on all products when you order a sanitizer from their website. Having accessories shipped will cost you extra.

They also offer a 30 money-back guarantee. Nuwave’s customer service team has a great reputation, so we don’t think you’ll have any issue getting your money back from them.

The Models

Now, let’s take a look at the individual models available from Nuwave. The main difference between the models is their size. The Combo is a value pack that includes the two sizes of machine.

The Plus

This is the standard model in Nuwave’s range. Offering a full cleaning cycle in 2:35 hours. The Plus comes with the chamber, generator, tubing, and a rechargeable lithium battery.

The Plus can clean your water humidifier and Cpap mask simultaneously.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Resmed Cpap Cleaner – Cpap Mask Product Review

All regular CPAP users should know the importance of keeping their equipment clean. Because of the nature of CPAP masks, and the tubing attached to them, they are very prone to build up from our sweat, dry skin, and other gunky gross things our bodies produce (don’t worry, all our bodies do it). It is super important that your mask and equipment are cleaned before and after each use. This will limit the amount of bacteria on the mask and equipment that could otherwise make you sick. As well as this, cleaning them regularly will help prevent skin irritation and breakouts that can be caused by unsanitary masks.

One brand that produces masks and CPAP equipment is ResMed. ResMed is a company operating in the US and over the water in the UK. as well as making CPAP equipment and accessories, they also manufacture some excellent CPAP cleaning products.

In this article we are going to be reviewing two of the best CPAP cleaning products from ResMed, letting you know exactly why we love them as well as providing you with some handy pros and cons for both of them so you know exactly what to expect.

So if you are on the lookout for a new CPAP equipment cleaner, look no further because this article is the one for you.

ResMed CPAP mask wipes

Product Overview

ResMed’s CPAP Mask Wipes have convenience at their core. Like any type of cleaning wipes, these are easy to use and take seconds when cleaning your equipment. This pack of 62 wipes can be used daily before and after each use to reassure you that your equipment is clean and safe. Whilst it cannot replace regular deep cleaning, it is certainly needed for those daily once obers.

Pros

  • Super convenient
  • Available in multipacks so you can stock up
  • Free of harsh alcohols and chemicals
  • Great for daily cleaning in between thorough deep cleans
  • Unscented and 100% cotton to ensure it is gentle for your skin

Cons

  • They cannot replace through deep cleaning
  • Because they are 100% cotton there is a chance you may experience lint

ResMed cleaning spray - 400 ml

Product Overview

ResMed’s cleaning spray is an excellent addition to your CPAP cleaning products repertoire. It is super thorough and promises a good clean for your CAp mask and air tubes. In fact, any plastic and silicone part of your CPAP equipment can be used with this ResMed cleaning spray. It cleans away dirt, oily residue and other build ups with ease, making your mask more fresh and comfortable.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Transparent about ingredients
  • Available in a travel sized battle or multipacks as well as this size
  • You can clean the mask as well as any silicone and plastic equipment on your CPAP set up
  • Rids your mask of dirt, oil and other matter to ensure it is fresh and safe to use

Cons

  • It requires a little more action than ResMed’s wipes as you need to use it at a wash basin and use a cloth with it

Final verdict

Overall, we were very impressed with ResMed’s Cleaning Products for CPAP equipment. These two products were definitely the stand out items for us in terms of effectiveness, convenience and ease of use. If you are looking for a new CPAp equipment cleaner, we wholeheartedly recommend ResMed’s products.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Sleep8 Cpap Cleaner

When it comes to cleaning and sanitizing your CPAP machine, Sleep 8 CPAP cleaner is considered one of the best products. It eradicates over 99% of bacteria from your tubing system, resulting in a bacteria-free supplementary oxygen system that won’t cause you sickness from one use to another.

Doctors and sleep experts recommend that you clean your Cpap tubing regularly to avoid the hazards that are posed by bacteria, such as sinus complications, build up of mold and general sickness. Once you’ve used Sleep8, you can enjoy a clean and well-ventilated sleep.

What Is The Sleep8 CPAP Cleaner?

Sleep8 cleaner is a waterless Cpap sanitizer that you can carry around in your pocket. It has no additional cords, so you won’t need to plug it into the mains and it has a silent operation. Sleep 8 uses the same hygienic technology that you might find in a hospital, food hygiene and skincare industries.

How Do You Use Sleep8 Sanitizer Machine?

The Sleep8 cleaner is a very compact unit that will sanitize your Cpap unit quickly and efficiently, requiring only connection to a filter bag system which is provided with the unit itself. Everything you need comes with your Sleep8 cleaning machine, including the USB power charging device.

To operate your Sleep8 sanitizer system accurately, you’ll only need to follow these few steps.

  • Connect the Cpap tubing to the inside of your Sleep8 filter bag.
  • Take your Cpap mask and place it in the bag with the zip closed.
  • Find the round valve on the outside of your bag and connect it to the tubing of your Cpap machine. You can also place all the other Cpap accessories that you want to be sanitized in this bag too.
  • Connect the port of your Sleep 8 cleaner onto the round valve on the outer housing of the bag. Once it is connected, you can press the button on your Sleep8 to begin the sanitation process.

How To Use The Sleep8 Screen

To negotiate your way through the Sleep8 screen, all you have to do is note some of these indicators.

  • The battery icon – this indicates the lifespan of the battery. If you can see it is full, then the battery has 100% life, if it is half then it has 50% life and so on. A single battery charge will typically last you for 2 or 3 cycles.
  • Timer icon – this will indicate the time left for the sanitation process to completely deplete. Once this is complete, then the device will sound 5 times, followed by an okay symbol.
  • Fan icon – this icon will pulsate when the sanitation process is occurring.
  • O3 icon – this icon will confirm that the Sleep8 machine is satisfactorily connected to the bag. Once this is done, the sanitation process can begin properly. If there is an X symbol beside the O3 icon, then you have failed to connect the bag and the process will not begin.

The Sleep8 does not come with any additional adaptors and should sanitize most of the areas for your Cpap machine, whether they have heated tubing or not. You can easily store away the Sleep8 unit in your pocket and take it with you on vacation or if you move house.

Does the Sleep8 CPAP cleaner really work?

Sleep8 Reviews:

“Easy cleaning and everything smells fresh”

“This product makes cleaning my equipment so much easier and saves me a lot of time. When the cleaning is done, everything smells fresh and ready to use. I really like the way it smells. I’m very glad that I purchased this cleaning system and highly recommend it.” Jane Fritter

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

PurePap CPAP Sanitizer Review

We’re sure you have seen the adverts on TV or radio about the PurePap CPAP Cleaner.

They state that it is the “faster, easier, more effective way to clean your CPAP”.

Not only this but the PurePap team also claim that the device kills 99% of germs and bacteria.

… but does this machine actually live up to the claims their advertising campaign makes?

Read on to find out …

What is PurePAP CPAP Cleaner?

The PurePap CPAP sanitizer is the type of CPAP cleaner that use activated oxygen in order to sanitize your machine or mask. The company claims that it kills 99% of germs and bacteria within only 30 minutes.

It is indeed one of the newer oxygen activated devices which allows a faster generation of O3 than earlier sanitizers in this category of cpap cleaners.

This is what give the PurePap the ability to automatically clean your CPAP device in the time in such a short time.

Quick Summary

Price: $100 (whilst discounted)
Shipping Weight: 16 oz
Sanitation method: Activated oxygen
Guarantee: 30-day trial period

How does the PurePap Cleaner Work?

When we received our product in the mail, it was pretty straightforwardto get up and running. There was nothing that had to be assembled or any headaches like that.

First, you need to disconnect the hose from your machine, then connect it to the PurePap. This is where the freeadapter comes in handy.

Next, get all your gear together (mask/hose) and zip it up into the sanitizing bag that comes with the sanitizer.

Finally, hit that start button (it take a few seconds to activate) and then cleaning cycle will begin. It takes around 30mins to fully complete the cleaning cycle.

PurePap Key Features:

  • Kills 99% of germs, bacteria and viruses
  • Automated cleaning process - in under 30 mins
  • Small and portable device - weights under 16oz
  • Compatible with almost all CPAP machines
  • Manufacturer offers full money back guarantee

PurePap Cleaner Reviews

VERY NICE MACHINE:

“Great little machine. It is super easy to use and compact enough to always take it with you if traveling. Considerably easier than doing a full cleaning of the hose, mask, and machine all the time. Couldn’t be happier with the purchase.”Abus5

Conclusion and Recommendation

Recommended for:

  • CPAP users who need a sanitizer for both home and travel
  • People who struggle for time and don’t want to wait over 30mins for the cleaning process to complete
  • If you don’t want the hassle of buying filter or replacement parts

Not Recommended for:

  • People who don’t like the smell of ozone
  • CPAP users who are content with dismantling their masks every time they disinfect it

Would we recommend the PurePap device? Definitely!

The fact that it is can kill 99% of the bad stuff you don’t want in your CPAP equipment is good enough for us to give it a thumbs up.

We think this is a great sanitizer all-round! It’s quick, small, and effective all at a great price point.

Not only that at the moment the manufacturer is offering a significant discount in addition to a free travel bag.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Understanding CPAP Pressure SettingsIt’s a fact that continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP therapy is the number one treatment for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where the individual stops breathing periodically during sleep. It affects nearly 20 million Americans.

There are many types of sleep apnea, but obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common. OSA affects 2% of women and 4% of men. Incredibly, only 10% of patients with OSA get treatment for this condition. In OAS, breathing stops involuntarily for brief periods during sleep. It’s because the normal flow of air is repeatedly prevented throughout the night. The flow of air stops because the muscles and soft tissue around the throat partially or fully block the airway.

What is PAP Therapy?

After being diagnosed with OSA, your physician may prescribe you positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. The prescription typically indicates machine settings based on the results of your sleep study.

Furthermore, medical professionals will suggest different CPAP settings for different patients, depending on the patient’s needs.

There are four basic types of PAP devices, depending on their pressure delivery system:

1. Bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP)

This device distributes two diverse air pressures to keep your airway open as you sleep. It has a high pressure to keep your airway open when you inhale and then has lower pressure when you exhale.

2. Auto-titrating positive airway pressure (APAP)

Auto Positive Airway Pressure (APAP) machines automatically adjust the pressure according to your changing breathing patterns throughout the night. If you have been diagnosed with OSA, you tend to have more frequent bouts of paused breathing at some times of night than at others. APAP automatically adjusts air pressure to fit your changing breathing patterns.

Which factors Affect the Required CPAP Pressure Setting?

Following factors affect your required CPAP machine setting.

  • Anatomy of Upper airway

The Anatomy of Upper airway is the biggest factor in determining the required CPAP pressure settings. There could be multiple reasons for obstruction, including allergies.

What Happens If Your CPAP Pressure Is Too Low?

If you can inhale without any problem but feel trouble in exhaling, it means CPAP machine pressure is low. If your airway still collapse, it means the pressure is set lower than what is prescribed.

It happens because, at low CPAP pressure, the patient tends to feel suffocation. Rather than depending on the CPAP, the patient tries to gasp for air through the mouth.

AHI index is also an indication to discern that your pressure is low or not.

If the index indicates that you have five or more OSA events in an hour, then your CPAP machine is not working like it supposed to be.

What happens if your CPAP pressure is too high?

If you may find your ear leaking fluid, it means your CPAP pressure is higher than your requirement. Also, difficulty in exhaling is a sign of high pressure.

Final Words From Well-Aware-System’ Experts

  • If you have been diagnosed with OSA and prescribed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, you must understand your CPAP pressure setting and its importance.
  • CPAP Pressure setting on your machine is actually a prescription that your physician recommends you.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

What Is CPAP Aromatherapy?

Humans have used essential oils for thousands of years to prevent and treat illnesses. Some even claim that “Thieves’ Oil” prevented a group of people from developing the Black Plague in the 1330s.

What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy is a holistic remedial treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. It’s also called essential oil therapy. In the broad term, it’s called plant-based therapy.

Aromatherapy uses aromatic essential oils to improve both physical and emotional health. It works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products such as these:

  • Diffusers
  • Inhalers
  • Aromatic spritzers
  • Body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application
  • Hot and cold compresses
  • Body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application

There are almost one hundred types of essential oils available. But, according to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), the most popular essential oils are:

  • Cypress
  • Clary sage
  • Geranium
  • Fennel
  • Eucalyptus
  • Ginger
  • Helichrysum
  • Lavender
  • Lemongrass
  • Lemon
  • Mandarin
  • Neroli
  • Peppermint
  • Patchouli
  • Roman chamomile
  • Rosemary
  • Rose
  • Vetiver
  • Tea tree
  • Ylang ylang

What is CPAP Aromatherapy?

In CPAP aromatherapy, essential oils are used alongside your CPAP therapy. CPAP aromatherapy kit is used for this purpose. This kit uses oil on diffuser pads to fill the air around the CPAP equipment with the fragrance.

It can create a more pleasant and relaxing experience. It can also help new CPAP users get used to their machines faster using cognitive distraction.

Benefits of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has many potential health benefits, including:

  • Relief from anxiety and depression
  • Relief from headaches and anxiety
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Improved mood
  • Improved digestion
  • Fight bacteria, virus, or fungus
  • Boosts immunity

Below are some benefits that are backed by scientific research;

  • The research studies found that tea tree and eucalyptus oil have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It might help with nasal congestion.
  • A study reported that the smell of lavender essential oil is associated with reduced mental stress and increased arousal rate.

Is It Safe to Directly Put Essential Oils in Your CPAP Machine?

Directly putting essential oils in your CPAP machine is not safe. It can worsen your sleep apnea. It’s not safe at all, even if you’re putting them in the device itself, in the hose, in the CPAP humidifier, or on the mask.

How Can You Use Essential Oils In CPAP Machine?

You cannot use essential oils directly in the CPAP humidifier, hoses, or water. But you can enjoy the fragrance and other benefits of essential oils while using your CPAP with the right product.

Final Words from Well-Aware-System's Experts

  • Remember that essential oils are highly concentrated. Using them directly into your CPAP machine can cause adverse health risks.
  • If you want to enjoy the benefits of essential oils in CPAP machines, the diffuser kit is a safe, simple way to do so.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Understanding Mild Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder described by repeated episodes of partial or total upper airway obstruction. It results in arousals from sleep and changes in oxygen levels during your sleep. 

OSA is the number one reason why people visit a sleep specialist. It affects nearly 20 million Americans. It’s even more prevalent in patients who are obese or have heart or metabolic conditions like diabetes.

The category of sleep apnea includes mild, moderate, and severe cases. Most population studies propose that about 60% of people with obstructive sleep apnea fall into mild category.

What is Considered Mild Sleep Apnea?

The diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is based on your;

  1. Sleep Studies
  2. Oxygen desaturation
  3. Medical History
  4. Physical Exam

1. Sleep Studies

OSA is diagnosed with a home sleep study or an overnight sleep study test. It assesses how many times your upper airways collapse per hour of sleep or awakenings from sleep.

If your airways completely collapse, this is called the apnea, and if it partially collapses, it’s called hypo-apnea. The total number of these events per hour of sleep is called the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). Basically, the higher the AHI, the more severe the sleep apnea. 

What Are The Symptoms Of Mild Sleep Apnea?

The symptoms of mild sleep apnea are unwanted sleepiness or involuntary sleep episodes occurring during activities that require little attention. Examples included drowsiness that is likely to occur while watching television, reading, or traveling as a passenger. 

Regardless of the criteria for classifying OSA as mild, moderate, or severe, the extent of your symptoms does not always correlate with the severity of this disorder. In other words, some individuals with very mild disease (based on their AHI) can be extremely symptomatic, with excessive sleepiness or severe insomnia.

What Are The Risk Factors For Sleep Apnea?

There are many contributing factors to sleep apnea, which can vary on a case by case basis. Some risk factors, such as unhealthy lifestyle habits and environments, can be changed. While, other risk factors, such as age, sex, family history and genetics, race and ethnicity, cannot be changed. 

Does Mild Sleep Apnea Need To Be Treated?

Yes, treating mild sleep apnea is necessary. The reasoning for treating mild OSA was that it has symptoms, it can contribute to other health conditions, and it can be treated to improve outcomes.

However, there is still debate on whether Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment should be used as a first-line treatment for mild sleep apnea.

What Are The Treatment Options For Mild Sleep Apnea?

Generally, for moderate to severe sleep apnea, positive airway pressure devices, such as CPAP device, is the number one recommended treatment. But these devices would not necessarily be used as the first line of defense for a mild case.

Final Words from Well-Aware-System’ Experts

  • It’s important to note that mild sleep apnea may not be as disruptive to your life as moderate to severe OSA, but it is still a problem to your health and well-being.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

VPAP vs CPAP: How to Choose the Best VPAP Breathing Machine

Things can become quite complicated when you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea.

Different doctors prescribe and recommend various types of therapies and machines. The process of choosing the right treatment then becomes not only overwhelming but also intimidating.

But before you dive into the world of sleep apnea breathing machines, you need to get familiar with their basic definitions first. Two of the most common machines you’ll often encounter in your search are VPAP and CPAP machines.

Read the rest of this article to know the difference between VPAP vs CPAP machines and help you decide which one’s right for you.

What is a VPAP Machine?

Also known as bi-level CPAP machines, VPAP machine stands for variable positive airway pressure machine. The term “variable” means that it varies between two different levels of air pressure–IPAP and EPAP.

Check out the pros and cons of a VPAP machine:

Pros

  • Delivers two types of air pressure
  • Quiet sleep therapy experience
  • Different pressure features
  • Various modes of operation

Cons

  • Larger and heavier than CPAP machines
  • Adjustable pressure produces noise that can wake you up
  • Variable pressure adjustments can be quite difficult to understand

What is a CPAP Machine?

Dubbed by the National Sleep Foundation as the leading therapy for sleep apnea, the CPAP machine stands for continuous positive airway pressure.

It’s a breathing device that delivers air to a mask. You wear the mask over your nose and/or mouth to promote consistent breathing. The machine gently blows pressurized air through your airway at a constant pressure, keeping your throat from collapsing.

Pros

  • Generally quiet
  • Great data options
  • Easy to set up
  • User-friendly
  • Heated tubing options

Cons

  • Not enough exhalation relief
  • Not the best quality air flow
  • Might have incorrect data reports

What’s the Difference Between VPAP vs. CPAP Machines?

Although both of these machines offer great benefits, they do have some differences.

One of the differences is that CPAP offers a steadier and more consistent airflow. Meanwhile, VPAP machines change pressure during inhalation and exhalation.

The VPAP machines also have excellent ventilation options while the CPAP does not.

If you want a machine that offers more modes of operations, then choose VPAP machines. But if you want an easy setup and more straightforward treatment, then go for CPAP machines.

Final Thoughts

Millions of people with sleep apena have used different machines to treat their sleeping problem. But bear in mind that VPAP and CPAP machines are just two of the options for treating and managing sleep disorders.

For you to get the best treatment, make sure that you choose the most suitable machine for your breathing and sleeping needs. With hundreds of different VPAP and CPAP machines out there, choose a high-quality device manufactured by a reputable company.

Ask your doctor for prescriptions and recommendations. If you have a friend or family member who has already used these machines before, then don’t hesitate to seek advice from them as well. As long as you do your homework, you’ll eventually find the ideal sleep therapy machine that fits your needs.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Is There a Connections Between Sinusitis and Sleep Apnea?We’ve all experienced a poor night’s sleep due to a stuffy nose. It’s hard to sleep when it’s hard to breathe as we become uncomfortable and possibly start to snore. The result is an inability to get a good night’s sleep that leaves you feeling tired in the morning.

What is Sinusitis?

Sinusitis or sinus infection is the swelling and inflammation in the sinuses. The sinuses are small air spaces located behind your forehead, nose, cheekbones, and in between the eyes. These produce mucus that keeps nasal passages moist and traps dirt particles and germs.

The congestion and swelling in the sinuses make it difficult for air to pass through, which can be uncomfortable (2).

According to the American Rhinologic Society, your reflex is to breathe through your nose while you’re asleep. But the sinus inflammation and swelling caused by sinusitis can force you to breathe through your mouth instead.

There are different types of sinusitis that can last for different lengths of time;

  • Acute sinusitis: It has the shortest duration and may last for up to 4 weeks (3).
  • Sub-acute sinusitis: Symptoms last longer than the standard acute period, for up to 3 months. It commonly occurs with bacterial infections or seasonal allergies.
  • Chronic sinusitis: Symptoms persist, or frequently return, after 12 weeks. It may need more invasive treatment.

Usually, your sinuses drain every 10 minutes to maintain a clear passage. When you get a cold or suffer from allergies, the nasal passages typically swell up. It blocks the flow of the sinuses. However, when you are sick, the nasal passages are unable to clean themselves naturally. It leads to a build-up of mucus that contains bacteria.

If bacteria continue to build up in the nasal passages, it leads to inflammation. Subsequent nasal congestion will most likely prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.

The symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. They are similar to those of a common cold that may include:

  • Reduced sense of smell
  • Fever
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Headache from sinus pressure
  • Fatigue
  • Cough

Fast Facts On Sinusitis

  • It affects 31 million people in the United States each year (4).
  • Allergies, bacteria, or a virus can cause sinus infection.
  • Swimmers, smokers, second-hand smokers are more likely to contract sinusitis.
  • This condition usually goes away without treatment, but sometimes medical attention is needed.
  • Doctors often refer to sinusitis as rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose known as rhinitis).

Final words from Well-Aware-System Experts

  • Obstructive sleep apnea is a sleep disorder, while sinusitis is a temporary infection. The definite connection between sinusitis and sleep apnea is still not clear. But sinusitis can worse your OSA symptoms.
  • Deviated septum of your nose cannot cause sleep apnea. But if you already have an airway obstruction, it can worse your sleep apnea.
  • Sleep Apnea associated with chronic sinusitis can be treated effectively if you treat your sinusitis.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

A Review of the Best Earplugs For Snoring

If a snoring partner or honking horns keeps you awake all night, you already know what scientific research has confirmed — noise can adversely affect your sleep and overall health. Sleep deprivation can even heighten susceptibility to diabetes or Alzheimer’s, prematurely aged skin, and lower libido. The list goes on.

Studies show that the bed partner of a snorer wakes up an average of 22 times per hour. We understand how frustrating it can be.

What Are QuietOn Sleep Earplugs?

QuietOn Sleep Earplugs by ZQuiet are innovative noise-canceling earplugs, ultimate in comfort, specifically designed to reduce snoring sounds and other annoying environmental noises significantly.

Its manufacturer claims that theses innovative earplugs are four times more effective at reducing snoring and environmental noises than regular foam earplugs. The device produces no Bluetooth rays, not even need an app to run it, and thus highly safe for use.

QuietOn Sleep Earplugs (Quick Summary)

Device Type: Active Noise Cancelation Device (Latest technology in the world)

Material: Plastic (Polyamide, Polycarbonate, ABS), Silicone, Polyurethane Rubber, Stainless Steel, and Gold.

Sizes: 3 different sized changeable ear tips for different sized ears

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Easy cleaning and maintenance
  • Super soft, and highly comfortable
  • CE certified for safety
  • Comes with a 60 days money-back guarantee
  • Comes with a user guide
  • Small and lightweight (highly portable)
  • Having mode switch button (silent and hearing modes)
  • Having USB charging cable, easy to plug in the charging case from numerous power sources
  • Having a Storage/ Charging case that conveniently charges the earplugs when not in use
  • No Bluetooth rays
  • No App needed
  • 20 hr battery life per charge

Cons

  • Non-refundable shipping charges for product returns
  • The device is tricky to figure out
  • For proper working, the device needs to be in the correct position in ears

Actual Feedback from Users

“These little earbuds are incredible. I almost returned my pair because I thought they weren’t working well enough, but I called customer service and realized that I wasn’t using them correctly. You have to get a good seal in your ear to work, which means inserting them correctly and using the right-sized tip. There’s also a little button on the side that switches between hearing and quiet mode, and those both have to be switched on. Once I got the hang of it, they are working SO well to quiet my boyfriend’s snoring! I can still hear a little bit of snoring, but it’s nothing compared to the roar of my nights without them.” – Jenna Wagner

Conclusion and Recommendation

If you notice, most of the QuietOn Sleep Earplugs’ users were happy and very satisfied with the results. Some of the common benefits that users claimed are its latest sound-canceling technology, ease of use, comfortable texture, and ability to switch the silent and hearing modes, comparable to the silicone earplugs, Apple Airpods Pro, soft foam earplugs and Sony WF-1000XM3.

If you’re really looking for the most effective and safe noise-canceling technology, then give a try to this incredible pair of earplugs and allow yourself, your friends, and families to enjoy a quiet, peaceful, and quality sleep.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP Battery

We have gone on and on about the life-changing benefits of CPAP machines for people diagnosed with sleep apnea. The CPAP device curtails the problem at hand and, at the same time, controls the comorbidities that come along with it. These include diabetes, stroke, heart failure, obesity, loss of cognitive skills, and even cancer.

All in all, it seems like a great deal at the price of just one CPAP device. It keeps the sleep apnea and the comorbidities at bay ensure that you have a good night’s sleep and wake up well-rested.

How does the CPAP machine work?

The CPAP machine is a compact device with a mask that fits your nose and mouth, a hose that connects the mask to the main part of the machine with a motor to pump continuous air at a specific pressure. Maintaining airflow at the particular pressure is very important as any change or pause can cause the airways inside the body to collapse, leading to a respiratory pause.

Depending on the time period and intensity of this pause, the metabolism of the body is impacted. The oxygen flow to the brain and other visceral organs is decreased or can even be stopped. Breathing not only provides oxygen to the cells but also removes metabolic wastes like carbon dioxide. It is clear from the mechanics mentioned above that any change in the airflow from the CPAP machine can be impaired the breathing process and possibly be life-threatening.

Why would you need CPAP batteries?

The CPAP machine is fueled by power and needs to be plugged in when it’s working if any change in the power supply or fluctuation in the voltage can lead to a change in the airway pressure. But what if there is a power outage. What if something worse happens and the area you live in lies in the path of a storm or blizzards that are powerful enough to knock the power lines down. True, that these occurrences are rare. But when it is a question of your health, make sure that you are prepared for every worst-case scenario.

What is the best CPAP battery?

Moving on, here are the best CPAP batteries that have the best reviews and are also recommended by physicians.

  1. BPS Freedom CPAP Travel Battery– can be found online within $330-$250, is portable, and has a sleek design along with a digital display. The battery is lithium-ion based and is compatible with popular CPAP.

  2. Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite- can work through all night long, can be used in flight, can charge handheld devices, and has a built-in flashlight.

  3. Philips Respironics Respironics Travel Battery Kit- suitable for taking along flights, has a sleek design, and comes along with a travel case. The best part is it comes with a long battery expectancy.

Maintaining CPAP battery life over time

You are making a considerable amount of investment for the CPAP battery and the device, so it would do well to keep in mind how to maintain it. The most significant issue with chargeable battery is that they tend to get discharged faster as they become older. Even though each device comes with its expiry date, taking these steps to maintain your battery will help elongate this expiry date.

These small tips will go a long way and increase your battery life. Use your CPAP backup battery and the machine with care and enjoy sound sleep anywhere and everywhere.

.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best CPAP Mask 2020 | Buying Guide & Reviews

So now that you’ve found the perfect CPAP machine, it means that all is well and good, right? While you’re more than halfway through having a better night’s rest, there is still one factor that you have to consider–the best CPAP mask to wear. The mask you’ll be using can determine your overall experience with using a CPAP machine.

Remember, this is something that you’ll be using on a nightly basis. Because your facial anatomy and how you sleep is different from other CPAP users, it is important to dedicate some time in exploring the type of mask that fits into your lifestyle and sleeping habits such as are you a side sleeper? This is why various types had been developed to cater to each individual’s preferences.

Considerations When Buying a New CPAP Mask

When looking to buy the top cpap mask, you can check out cpap mask reviews, FDA approvals, amazon feedback on the most comfortable BiPAP masks (and CPAP masks), but the reality is when choosing CPAP machine masks, remember that the best sleep apnea masks types are suited to the specific user needs, and there is no shortage of types to choose from:

However, to help you better understand your CPAP headgear options (and keeping life simple) we have categorised the CPAP mask types into three main groups…

Our Most Comfortable CPAP Mask Reviews

In this buying guide, we give you seven of the best C-PAP masks that are worth investing in.

ResMed AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow Mask with Headgear

A quick Google search on the best CPAP masks will show that ResMed is a name that is quite known in the industry. Their AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask further proves this.

First of all, the AirFit™ P10’s QuietAir woven-mesh vent technology makes it one of the quietest among other C PAP masks. This means that you won’t have to get used to any kind of noise emitted by your mask to lull you to sleep.

One great thing about nasal pillows is that they are lighter and more compact as compared to the best full face masks and CPAP nasal masks. ResMed takes pride on their product being 50% lighter as compared to other nose pillows. This makes it ideal for travel, especially as you will already be bringing along a bulky machine.

When ordering a face mask to complement your CPAP machine, manufacturers don’t often include the whole package. What makes the Airfit™ P10 great is that it already comes with the headgear to support and stabilize the nasal pillows in place. Its innovative split-strap design keeps facial contact at a minimum, promoting utmost comfort once you slip it on.

The package already includes three pillow sizes ranging from small to large so that you won’t have to guess which one will fit well into your nostrils.

Pros

  • Quiet and lightweight mask due to its woven vent technology
  • Comes with the whole package (mask, headgear and three nasal pillow replacements of various sizes)

Cons

  • Headgear strap not adjustable

Final Thoughts

With all these mask options, you won’t have to worry about not having the perfect mask to go along with the machine you recently invested in.

Ready to find your perfect match? Do your research first. Who knows? Maybe one of our featured products may be the right mask for you.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your CPAP MachineWhile rarely diagnosed, sleep apnea affects between 5 to 20 percent of the adult population according to estimates of the National Sleep Foundation. Left untreated, the condition could increase your risk of developing serious diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and stroke.

Thankfully, treating obstructive sleep apnea is easy and is usually done by using a positive airway pressure device (CPAP). It is basically a mask that covers your nose and/or mouth designed to keep your airway open while you sleep. There are a lot of options available on the market today but they all share one thing in common – they all need to regular maintenance to keep them in tip-top shape and ensure you only get the most effective treatment from these devices.

Why CPAP Machines Must Be Cleaned Regularly

Surprisingly, one of the easiest ways to maintain a CPAP’s machine is to just clean it regularly. But if you’re feeling a bit lazy and are wondering exactly what happens If you don’t clean your machine, perhaps these nasty scenarios might convince you to shove those procrastinating tendencies away and get it cleaned fast.

Mold spores, viruses, fungus, bacteria, germs, and mildew build-up could happen – Most CPAP machines have a humidifier feature to combat throat and nasal passage irritation which happens when dry air is continuously blown into your airway during the treatment duration. Due to this humidifier, the internal surface of your device will usually end up being damp with moisture. Even those without a humidifier will still be damp inside since your breath already contains moisture when you exhale.

You might experience other respiratory health concerns This is actually connected to the previous scenario which is the buildup of viruses and bacteria. In a study by Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 48 percent of the CPAP masks sampled contained 2000+ bacteria counts. This is supported a separate study which found out the patients using CPAP are 32 percent more likely to get pneumonia due to bacterial contamination of the mask.

The mask will smell and might deteriorate prematurely – If you don’t clean the CPAP mask, dirt, oil and dead skin cells will accumulate on its surface. This will result not only in a bad smelling mask that no one would want to wear. Not to mention this will eventually damage the mask and irritate your skin.

Cleaning the CPAP Machine

There are a number of ways to clean your CPAP mask and machine, and ensure it is free of germs and bacteria. The traditional method is with soap and water but it might not be effective enough since you can’t really clean the mask’s hard-to-reach areas.

A more effective way of cleaning the medical equipment is to use activated oxygen (ozone). As a cleaning method, it has been proven safe and very effective. In fact, it is actually being used by the hotel industry, food handlers, and even hospitals.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

SoClean 2 Go CPAP Cleaner and SanitizerThe Good

SoClean 2 Go Cpap Cleaner is an excellent piece of cleaning equipment that utilizes activated oxygen to destroy 99.9% of mold, viruses, and bacteria that might be present in your CPAP device, specifically in the mask. Cleaning your CPAP device away from home is now possible since this device does not require any water to clean. It is lightweight and very easy to operate.

The Bad

You have to purchase the adapter separately which is some folks consider a hassle. Without the adapter, you have to use a set of batteries, which is also not cost-effective. Its materials are also not that durable and so you have to be careful when handling it.

The Bottomline

It is undoubtedly a remarkable innovation in portable CPAP sanitation. This is the cleaning device available in the market today and there has never been any other option that is as efficient and convenient as SoClean CPAP machine. Although it is small and compact, it is powerful and efficient enough to sterilize almost all CPAP machines out there.

Convenience and Portability

The SoClean 2 Go CPAP Cleaner and Sanitizer is the world’s first portable CPAP cleaning equipment. It is a perfect travel companion for any individual suffering from sleep apnea disorder and needs to undergo constant sleep therapy. It can easily fit in any bag since it only has a dimension of 10.7” length x 10.5” width and weighs less than 1.5 pounds.

Dependable Cleaning Process

Despite its small form, the device can be used to clean almost any model of CPAP machine. The users can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the device can efficiently kill molds, bacteria, and viruses residing in their CPAP device. This is because the device uses the same sanitization process found in water purification and even medical facility hospital sanitizing.

Your device is placed into a holding bag where activated oxygen is utilized and pre-set in a certain amount of time. The whole cleaning process is entirely dry and so you won’t have to worry about water and moisture, which can also attract different kinds of pathogens. Activated oxygen process has been used by many hospitals and medical practitioners today since it is a trusted and dependable sanitation method that can be applied for any type of device or equipment.

But I just wish...

While it is true that sanitizing your CPAP device using this unit is very convenient, few drawbacks are unavoidable. The SoClean 2 Go is not as robustly designed as regular home units. When traveling, things happen such as dropping your storage bag, and you need to know that this device is not that durable. There were reports made by users who said that the device malfunctioned after dropping it. And so, you really have to make sure that you take extra good care of it when traveling.The fragility of the unit which is noted by some users is due to its lightweight design. You have to make sure that you store and protect it properly when traveling. And aside from having a fragile nature, the device also doesn’t include an AC adapter. Users need to buy it separately, which of course, is an additional expenditure. It is indeed not a perfect cleaning device, but when it comes to portability and efficiency, the SoClean 2 Go is destined to stay in the travel niche industry for a very long time.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best Travel CPAP Machine 2020 | Buying Guide & ReviewsCPAP machines come in different models, configurations, functionality, and settings. For avid travelers diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is vital that you find the best travel CPAP machine out there.
Why Choose Travel CPAP Machine?·
PortabilityIt is now possible for frequent travelers to enjoy a good night sleep with the help of the best travel CPAP machines. You can bring them wherever you go since they are small, compact, and lightweight, which will make it easier for you to improve the quality of your sleep while traveling. Not to mention you can save more energy by carrying light machines that have multiple plug-in device adapters and light portable cpap battery.·

Apex XT Auto CPAP Machine

Considered as one of the lightest CPAP devices in the market today, the Apex XT Auto CPAP machine is a remarkable travel option. It has advanced data recording system that is installed in a compact device that fits in the palm of your hand. It is small in size, it is loaded with many useful features.

You will also benefit from its auto-adjusting technology and PVA pressure relief. You won’t have to worry about your mask’s seal since it has leak compensation. Its advanced data on the screen is also a cut above the rest. Since it is a very small device, you can’t expect highly-powered and long-lasting battery life.

The Apex XT Auto CPAP Machine is known for its auto altitude adjustment. If you are one of those busy travellers, this machine is the perfect option for you. Although it is lighter compared to other devices, it is packed with big advanced technological features. But because of its advanced features and great motors, some users might find this device a little bit noisy.

Conclusion

Despite having sleep apnea, experiencing sweet dreams on your vacation is now possible if you are successful in finding the best travel CPAP machines. Find the one that can give you a healthy good night sleep without ruining your travel. Sleep therapy treatment is vital to your health if you have sleep apnea, and you have to make sure that you use the right devices such as a Bipap machine.

Before you purchase any cpap machine, it is necessary that you consider several factors. Conducting online research ensures that you get to buy the best machine that is perfectly suited for your needs. Asking for tips on cpap cleaners and advice from friends or families who have bought high-quality travel CPAP machines is also a very good idea.

If you are one of those people who spend the good part of their lives on the road, then buying a specially-designed CPAP mask that works for you is indeed necessary. Regardless of whether you are going out for a business vacation, or to see your family, the best travel CPAP machines out there can help you avoid health risks by giving you an excellent nightly quality rest that you truly deserve.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, sleep disorders such as sleep apnea bring significant health issues that can lead to long term risks of diseases. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available today and one of the most effective ones is by using a travel cpap machine.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best CPAP Machine Buying Guide 2020

CPAP Machine Reviews: Why Choosing The Right One Is So Important.

DreamStation CPAP Pro with Humidifier and Heated Tube

As the company that introduced the first CPAP machine into the market, this product is a well-known brand that is recognized for its high quality and innovative products. The DreamStation CPAP Pro with Humidifier and Heated Tube does not disappoint and is the perfect machine for those who want all the necessary features to ensure a good night’s rest.

Transcend EZEX CPAP Machine

If you travel a lot, regularly sized machines may be too inconvenient to bring with you since they’re a bit bulky and heavy. But with Transcend EZEX CPAP Machine’s compact size and lightweight, you now have the perfect travel buddy which means you can continue with your sleep apnea machine wherever you go.

DreamStation CPAP Pro with Humidifier

Sometimes, you don’t really need all the features that top-of-the-line CPAP machines offer. If you’re not really keen on getting a heating feature for your device, then the DreamStation CPAP Pro with Humidifier is perfect for you.

DreamStation CPAP Pro

For sleep apnea sufferers who do not really need a humidifier, Philips Respironics has a model for them as well. Called the DreamStation CPAP Pro, it is packed with advanced features to treat your OSA effectively so you can finally get a good night’s rest.

This apena machine features the EZ Start Technology where it functions as an auto CPAP therapy for the first 30 days to determine the optimal pressure level for your treatment. Patient comfort is also assured with its high-quality technology features that detect breathing patterns and eases the air pressure during exhalation. And the SmartRamp feature is intelligent enough to know when to increase the pressure level based on your breathing.

DreamStation CPAP with Humidifier and Heated Tube

As a market leader, Phillips Respironics has an extensive lineup of machines to suit the different needs of sleep apnea patients. For those who do not need the features found in the Pro series and are looking for cheaper alternatives, the brand has another set of products to suit these patients’ needs such as the DreamStation CPAP with Humidifier and Heated Tube.

This machine has all the features needed to treat sleep apnea without effectively. It has the SmartRamp technology which automatically increases the pressure based on your breathing during ramp time. If it takes you a bit longer to ease into sleep, you can even set the ramp time to its maximum of 45 minutes. With its humidifier and heated tube, its ideal for use in colder and drier areas especially for patients who are sensitive to such conditions.

DreamStation CPAP with Humidifier

With plenty of sunlight and a warm climate all year round, most patients living in the tropics or near the equator won’t really need a heater feature. As such, the DreamStation CPAP with Humidifier is the perfect choice for them.

DreamStation CPAP Machine

If you want the high quality of Phillips Respironics products but have a limited budget, then the DreamStation CPAP Machine might be the perfect device for you. This machine is still packed with all the cool features that will help you deal with sleep apnea and get a good night’s rest but it is the lowest priced package in the DreamStation lineup.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

APAP Machines – What are They and Which is the Best?What is APAP?

APAP is one of the three types of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapies. APAP or automatic positive airway pressure is used to deliver air and maintain pressure into the throat airway to help the patient to breathe.

What is an APAP machine used for?

It is useful for people diagnosed with sleep apnea. The device is used to deliver proper air pressure to open up your airways while you sleep. The machine is connected to a mask that generates pressure.

How is it used?

In PAP (Positive Airway Pressure) machines, the pressurized air acts as a splint. It keeps your throat from collapsing onto each other and, thus, helps you to breathe freely without any problem. It helps in getting proper sleep and avoid any obstructive sleep apnea events. The set pressure of the machine is determined in the laboratory during a PAP titration study.

The device has two pressure settings – high pressure and low pressure. This helps meet an individual’s requirements as their breathing changes according to the stages of sleep every night.

Benefits of APAP machines

· Medical studies provide the reliability of APAP machines

· They offer room for flexibility

· They are proactive rather than reactive

How does the machine know when to make these adjustments?

An APAP device is always monitoring the resistance in your air passage. If its technology detects an obstruction, it automatically adjusts the passageway’s pressure level. Physicians typically prescribe APAP over CPAP devices when consulting patients with severe cases of sleep apnea. Complex cases may respond better with APAP therapy rather than CPAP therapy.

What is DreamStation Go Auto Travel APAP?

Sleep apnea can be very irritating, especially when you are traveling. This is where the DreamStation Go Auto Travel APAP machine from Philips Respironics comes in handy. It is not only mobile friendly but also allows proper treatment and benefits of a standard one.The equipment has several advanced and useful features that work well, even when traveling throughout the night. The lithium-ion battery provides 13 hours of uninterrupted operation. Philips Respironics DreamStation Go APAP is what you need for a decent night’s sleep. How is DreamStation Go Auto Travel APAP travel-friendly?

Features of DreamStation Go Auto Travel APAP

· The lithium-ion charged battery operates up to 13 hours of use

· Any phone or tablet can be powered up with its useful USB charging port

· Lightweight and portable, which is convenient for traveling

· The device automatically adjusts to the specific pressure settings according to patient needs

Does Medicare cover APAP machines?

Usually, Medicare is known to cover around 80% of the charges related to sleep apnea machines.

Medicare starts with a free three months trial in case of a sleep apnea machine. After that, you need to consult your doctor and check up on its benefits regarding your health. If passed, Medicare then covers another ten months of charge. So, in total, you’d get a 13 months charges covered.

To get your charges covered by Medicare, you need to meet the requirements for Medicare Part B deductible and get your physician involved in this process.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP Nightstand
Are you suffering from sleep apnea? Well, fear not! Nowadays, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure therapy) therapy helps you get your much-needed REM sleep! However, with hefty equipment comes the issue of storing them. This is where a CPAP bedside table or nightstand comes into play.
First of all, what is a CPAP nightstand? Well, it is a piece of furniture designed specifically to provide safe access to a CPAP device. After all, a CPAP machine is an essential tool for a person with sleep apnea.
There is a wide variety of CPAP nightstands. They range from regular chest drawers to equipment almost half their sizes. The types depend on personal choices and individual requirements.

CPAP nightstand recommendations
There is a lot of varieties when it comes to this furniture. It is fair to say that a CPAP machine can be a piece of challenging equipment to store. That is why there is specific furniture built only for the storage of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines. This furniture can only be regarded as a nightstand for CPAP machines. These nightstands are only used in the sense of bedside CPAP tables.
Some of them are:

Mahogany CPAP Nightstand with Moisture Resistant Surfaces
Solid Black CPAP Nightstand with Moisture Resistant Surfaces
Home Styles 5180-42 Arts and Crafts Night Stand, Cottage Oak Finish
Country Pine CPAP Nightstand with Moisture Resistant Surfaces
Heritage Oak CPAP Nightstand with Moisture Resistant Surfaces

Most of the time, the furniture is designed in such a way that it conceals the CPAP equipment. The nightstands have access to both sides to accommodate the cords, power converters, and air hoses. The bedside CPAP table is attached with an adhesive hook to secure the mask when it is not used.

Most of the time, the CPAP bedside table has a fixed and sturdy shelf. There is also a roll-out plane to store other reservoirs and equipment controls.
Want to create a custom CPAP nightstand?

Although a CPAP machine is an essential device for people suffering from sleep apnea, they can be very cumbersome to maintain and use. They are also challenging to store. The problem is how bulky they can be. Most of the time, a CPAP machine consists of a mask and a tube connected to the device’s motor.

Most CPAP nightstands have a door at the side to gain permits for the hose to come out of the table while the other equipment stays inside. It is truly a brilliant idea. However, the inconvenience surfaces when power is needed to run the machine. One needs to drill holes in their furniture to provide power.

There are other ingenious ways to avoid that. One of them is to follow the directions set by architects and designers, who help you with your nightstand’s blueprints. You can also use your old drawer with a little bit of customization.

How to hide a CPAP machine in plain sight?

There are several ways to hide a CPAP machine in plain sight. Using a CPAP nightstand is a practical option. However, there are other options too.

You can put a pop-up tray under your bed. Roll it out when you want to access the equipment. Once done, you can roll it back under the bed.
You can put it in a large and covered basket. Subsequently, that basket can stay on your nightstand or under the table beside your bed.
Take into account your DIY skills and transform an ordinary box into a pretty storage space for your CPAP machine. You can cover it up with pretty papers and cloth during the day and pull it off at night to use the device.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

What is a CPAP Machine and How Much Do They Cost?C.P.A.P is an abbreviation that stands for continuous positive airway pressure. They are used by people with sleep apnea. It helps them to breathe regularly and efficiently while sleeping at night. The machine works by increasing the air pressure in the throat that in turn prevents the airways from collapsing every time the person inhales.

What kind of CPAP machine should I buy?

Most CPAP machines have a mask for covering the mouth and nose. However, there are other varieties, too, including a mask that covers just the nose known as nasal continuous positive airway pressure or NCPAP machine. Another kind of machine exists with a pair of prongs that fit into the nose instead of a mask.

Who is eligible to provide you with a CPAP prescription?

  1. Dentist
  2. Family Doctors
  3. Nurse practitioner
  4. MD Psychiatrist
  5. Doctor of Osteopathy
  6. Physician assistant.

Is a CPAP machine covered by insurance?

If you are wondering if your insurance company will cover the medical equipment’s cost or not, then the answer is probably so.

Many private health insurance schemes take into account the positive airway pressure (PAP) instruments – including CPAP and masks. However, the level of coverage depends on the insurance policy that you are following.

Myths regarding CPAP machines cost with insurance:

Myth #1: The insurance company pays for most of the expenses

Unlike most medical facilities, where the company covers most of the cost, and then you pick up the rest, CPAP does not follow the same procedure. For CPAP machines, you will either have to rent your device, or buy it at once, or, if you have Medicare, you have to pay 20% of the total price and then rent the machine for 13 months.

Myth #2: You will get an excellent machine

There can be times when your insurer will provide you with a reimbursed version of the CPAP machine. Although some companies might offer you a good version, many don’t.

Are there any side effects to these machines?

Although CPAP machines are beneficial, and there have been numerous claims about how CPAP therapy has changed a person’s life, like everything else, this therapy also has specific but minor side effects.

They include:

  1. Stomach and abdominal bloating and discomfort
  2. Dry and sore mouth
  3. Feeling confined under a face mask
  4. Feeling discomfort in the chest muscles
  5. Nosebleed, runny nose, nasal congestion, and sinusitis
  6. Feeling irritation and soreness over the bridge of the nose

In case of any other symptoms, it is advisable to visit and consult a doctor for proper treatment and solution.

Most patients undergoing CPAP therapy take around 6 to 9 weeks to become adjusted to the instrument.

How soon will you feel the effects of CPAP therapy?

According to the SLEEP journal, people undergoing CPAP therapy start to feel the effect around the third week of the treatment.

Reports demonstrate that people using CPAP machines have reported a surge of energy increase after the 3rd week of CPAP therapy.

Furthermore, it has been found that CPAP is highly beneficial for people who are excessively troubled by sleeplessness and have experienced fatigue and daytime sleepiness.

Although some people find dramatic results after the therapy, others observe a rather cumulative effect – that is, they do not see much effect until they have used the device consistently for weeks.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP Pillow Mask

Being prescribed CPAP therapy for sleep apnea can be unsettling for newly diagnosed people. Sleeping every night with a mask plugged into a machine can make you feel tethered and uncomfortable. However, skipping the therapy is not advisable as it will cause the sleep apnea to worsen.

So is there a way out to continue the therapy without having to give up on comfort? There definitely is. You can always opt for additional products that make the whole process a lot more gentle. The greatest problem that CPAP users complain about is the rashes and bruises on their nose and mouth. It is unavoidable when being fitted into a mask for over up to eight hours. The elastic bands and the airtight seal of the mask are also not the most comfortable, but it does prevent respiratory pauses.

What are CPAP nasal pillow masks for?
Selecting a pillow CP mask could pave your way to a better night’s sleep without compromising on CPAP therapy. There exist a wide range of pillow masks that are compatible with any CPAP device and are a lot more comfortable, along with being easier to use.

In fact, there exist a range of masks for CPAP that are suited for people with different breathing patterns and comfort preferences. One such mask is the CPAP nasal pillow masks with two silicone prongs that fit inside the nostrils. This eliminates the need for wearing large CPAP masks that are fitted in place with straps and are uncomfortable.

The silicone nasal pillows masks come with two prongs designed in a way that they easily fit within the nasal cavity. They mimic the anatomical shape of the passage in order to minimize discomfort.

There is also no need for wearing a bulky, full face mask during sleeping. But the best advantage of the nasal pillow masks is that you change your sleeping positions without the wear of dislodging the mask from your face.

Who should not wear a nasal pillow mask?

Nasal pillows masks are created largely for heightened comfort. But the preferences and specifics of comfort vary diversely. As a result, there exist certain cons of nasal pillows as well.
Nasal pillows are not ideal for people who need a high air pressure setting. Furthermore, the incidence of nosebleeds and nasal dryness are increased as now the air is directed into the nostrils.
Lastly, people who breathe from their mouth or both from nose and mouth might require some more adjustments along with the nasal pillow CPAP mask.
What is the most comfortable mask for CPAP?
In the above section, we discussed specifically nasal masks. But there exist other types of CPAP masks with additional facilities that are suitable for everyone. These include:

•ResMed AirTouch F20 (Full Face Mask)– It has an Airtouch feature, which is like memory foam that is soft and pliable. It will mold itself to the shape of your face allowing you to get the ultimate night’s rest. The mask can also be easily disconnected without the need to remove the tubes.

Does the CPAP pillow really work?
CPAP pillow has a distinct shape, design, and is made up of a material that facilitates the CPAP therapy. It even has a signature cut out to accommodate the CPAP mask and tubes. The pillow material makes it easier to clean and is also resistant to any leaks. Lastly, the CPAP pillow provides great comfort to people and allows them to change their position while they sleep. To get the best comfort, pair a suitable mask based on your preferences with a CPAP pillow, and get the best results from CPAP therapy.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Som Sleep: A Review Of Its Claims

Given the stress and anxiety levels at its peak today, many of us have trouble getting proper sleep. It manifests into a variety of problems like insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and restless legs syndrome (RLS). Several unavoidable factors contribute to the disturbance of our circadian rhythm. It leaves us feeling groggy and continuous lack of sleep develops into critical problems like depression.

What is Som Sleep?

Som Sleep is the newest dietary supplement in the beverage industry, launched in January 2018. To sum it up in a nutshell, it is used as a sleep aid that enables people to get better sleep in their routine.

It has all the necessary ingredients that promote a healthy and regular sleep pattern. Som sleep contains melatonin, L-theanine, GABA, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

The website also claims that it is drug-free, gluten-free, has no genetically modified organisms (GMO), and has zero sugar. It not only promotes health but is also non-habit forming while enabling people to fall asleep within 30 minutes.

Som Sleep comes in two distinct flavors.

· An original and sweetened flavor

· A sugar-free flavor

The fine print on the website says that the claim statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. It also mentions that the product does not intend to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

About the Manufacturer

Som Sleep is a privately held company in Santa Monica, California. The company size ranges to 1 to 10 employees and is considered to be a good competitor in the Health, Wellness, and Fitness industries. It was founded in 2017, and the company’s concerns include sleep support and nutritional support.

The significant employees in Som Sleep are:

· Abdul Khan: Co-founder and President

· Rob Bent: Co-founder and Chief Product Officer

· John Shegerian: Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer

· Brad Marks: Chief Marketing Officer

· Christine Khan: Head of E-Commerce

· Erica Huennekens: Marketing Manager

· Jerel Mascarinas: Head of Content

Is Som Sleep drink safe?

The safety of Som Sleep drink has been widely accepted. A can of Som sleep contains around eight-ounces of the drink. The ingredients include a rough estimate of 357 mg of melatonin and l-theanine and 40 mg of magnesium.

Som Sleep Claims

Som Sleep Drinks are particularly designed as a form of remedy for people who have a hard time falling asleep and thus promote relaxation.

It claims to:

· act as a sleep aid

· be a drug-free and non-habit forming drink

· be useful to fall asleep if taken 30 minutes before bedtime

· contain around 40 calories in a single can

· helps in providing nutritional support

· aids in maintaining a proper sleep cycle

Conclusion

The Co-founder and CEO of Som Sleep describe it as a “sleep supplement […] to fit better sleep seamlessly into everyone’s lifestyle.”

As an NSF-certified item, Som Sleep is essentially a medium to help you with your sleep pattern. It has all the ingredients to provide you a good night’s sleep. However, the official website advises against the use of Som if pregnant or nursing. It is better to consult your doctor before opting for it.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best CPAP Machine Buying Guide 2020

Ramp Time

CPAP devices basically forces air into your airway to keep it open. Obviously, this increased pressure takes some time getting used to. A ramp feature gradually increases the pressure over a certain period giving you time to adjust.

Humidifier

Some patients are very sensitive to dry air continuously blown into their airways during treatment. Common complaints include irritation of the nasal passage, clogged sinuses and even nose bleeds. While a humidifier feature could cost you a few bucks more, it is still a good deal as it could save you from the unpleasant prospect of waking up with your mouth and throat feeling as parched as a desert.

Exhalation Pressure Relief

If you’ve experienced blowing air into a balloon to inflate it, you’ll know just how unpleasant the feeling could be. That is basically what to expect if you buy a sleep apnea machine without a pressure relief feature during exhalation as you have to work against the pressure generated by the machine just to breathe out. If you can’t handle that for the entire night, better look for a model that eases the air pressure every time you exhale.

**CPAP Machine Reviews: Why Choosing The Right One Is So Important.

Which Is The Best CPAP Machine For You?**

If you travel a lot, it makes sense to buy a mini CPAP machine - also known as travel CPAP machine – due to their smaller size and lower weight. Read a few travel cpap reviews and select one that is battery powered one so you can use it even if there is no outlet in your location.

There is no straight answer to this question as different patients have different therapy needs, as well as different budget. Sleep apnea patients come in all shapes and sizes. While a particular model might work for one patient, it may not be suitable for another. When choosing for the right CPAP machine, always bear in mind that the goal of the treatment is to treat the condition so you’ll be able to sleep uninterrupted at night.

If money is not an issue for you and you want all the high tech features available, then the DreamStation CPAP Pro with Humidifier and Heated Tube or the ResMed AirSense 10 Elite with HumidAir Humidifier are perfect options for you.

Of course, there might be a few features that you don’t really need, some have cleaning functions, but if you are already have checked out our reviews, then you will know this isn't the only option.

For those shopping on a limited budget, we’ve also made it a point to include models at different price levels in this best CPAP machine buying guide as well. If you find bipap is better for you, then check out our Bipap machine reviews. Please note the prices might change or more affordable versions may come out later so it pays to give the CPAP shop near you a visit.

The National Sleep Foundation estimates that more than 18 million American adults suffer from sleep apnea. Left untreated, it increases a person’s risk of developing health issues such as heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even depression.

Thankfully, the condition can be easily managed with the use of CPAP machines. We’ve come up with this Best CPAP Machine Buying Guide to help you arrive at a well-informed buying decision.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Transcend EZEX CPAP Machine Review
The Good

The Trancend EXEX CPAP Machine is very compact and lightweight which makes it an ideal travel companion for those who want relief from their sleep apnea even while on vacation. Despite its size, it is packed with high-tech features such as the programmable ramp time, pressure relief during exhilations, sleep data tracking, altitude adjustment and optional solar powered battery charger.

The Bad

It has no Bluetooth capability and no app so changing its settings has to be done by connecting it to a PC running the supplied software. There are also negative word about its operational noise, which while not very loud, is still noticeable.

The Bottomline

Despite its shortcomings, this is still a very good option for people on the go. The noise level and connectivity issues can be considered minor inconveniences, especially when you consider that this device allows you to continue your sleep apnea treatment wherever your travels bring you. At under $450, it offers great value for your money and would surely fit anyone’s budget.

But I just wish...

As with most devices, the Transcend EZEX CPAP Machine has its flaws that might irk some users. For instance, users who’ve tried other brands might find this model a bit backwards when it comes to connectivity. Unlike other machines, this is not BlueTooth or WiFi enable and there is no app where you can access its settings wirelessly.

Light sleepers who are very sensitive to sound might find its operating noise level to be an issue. While it can’t be described as loud as it is even quieter than other brands, the noise can still be detected as if reminding you that a device is turned on somewhere inside the room.

This CPAP machine also lacks a heated humidifier, which could be problematic for patients who are prone to experiencing throat and nasal passage irritation by the constant blowing of dry, cold air. Fortunately, this problem can be easily fixed if you are willing to spend extra cash as a humidifier is offered as an option.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Essential Tips on How to Clean Your CPAP Machine

Just like any other important devices that you have inside your home, you are encouraged to clean your CPAP machine regularly. Bear in mind that CPAP machines will degrade over time and if you fail to maintain it properly, it’ll deteriorate even faster.

It is necessary to clean your CPAP machines thoroughly and consistently since they can be a breeding ground for germs and specks of dust. Eliminating the bacteria inside the tubing and humidification chamber is critical if you want to experience better quality treatment. Always remember that a clean machine offers a lot of health benefits which can significantly improve your sleep therapy.

Consistent care and cleaning of your device maintain peak functionality. Believe it or not, a properly maintained device can last for about 5 years! The more you regularly clean your device, the longer it should last. Extending its lifespan helps you save a lot of time and money from purchasing new devices. And the good news is, knowing how to clean a CPAP machine is easy.

Here’s how to clean a CPAP machine:

Read the Manual

Collecting more information about your device before cleaning it is a smart thing to do. Get the manual and read what the manufacturer says when it comes to cleaning and maintaining the device. By reading the manual, you should be able to read instructions such as replacing the disposable filters every 3 to 6 months and not submerging the machine in water. Find out whether or not your device has a humidification chamber and if it necessary for you to replace the water on a daily basis.

Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands before cleaning the device is essential. It is important to know that our hands are a carrier of germs, dust, and bacteria that can contaminate our machine. Vigorously washing your hands with antibacterial soap and water should prevent machine contamination while cleaning it. Make sure that there are no bacteria lurking in your hands as you interact with the device.

Use the Best Cleaner

You can find many kinds of cleaners on the market today but you have to know that not all of them are perfect for cleaning your CPAP machine. When using a cleaner, you have to make sure that it is fragrance-free, non-lotion, and dye-free. If you are using soap or dishwashing detergent on the device, then make sure that it is mild and does not contain strong chemicals or ingredients. The best cpap cleanersout there are those that have combined actions of disinfectant and germicide.

Wash and Dry Properly

Always follow the instructions indicated in the manual before you proceed in cleaning up your device. Check how you should wash and rinse your device. Most machines today can be rinsed with running tap water for at least 2 to 3 minutes. After washing the device, make sure that you wipe and dry it correctly. It is advisable that you air dry your device away from the sunlight. You will then have to cover it with a clean towel and let it dry until it is ready for reassembly. Learning how to clean a CPAP machine should be very easy if you follow these guidelines.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

How Does a CPAP Machine Work?
How Does a CPAP Machine Work?

A night of consistent healthy sleep is something that every individual should experience. It is through quality sleep that we can regain our strength after a hard day’s work. But sleeping is more than just gaining our strength and energy back, it also promotes a more sound and relaxed state of mind. It revitalizes our whole body system and makes us ready to face another day of work and responsibilities.

The truth is, not all of us can enjoy deep slumber all the time. There are people out there who suffer from nightly interrupted sleep patterns due to certain disorders. One of the most common sleep disorders today is called sleep apnea. People who are diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or OSA suffer from a temporary stoppage of breathing while he or she is sleeping. Aside from loud snoring, sleep apnea can also lead to life-threatening medical conditions such as stroke and cardiac arrest.

CPAP Machine as Therapy

Using a CPAP machine to treat sleep apnea disorder is a proven method. Many people who have used these machines can attest how effective it is when it comes to improving the quality of their health and sleep. Because of the popularity and effectivity of these machines, the number of brands, models, and manufacturers has significantly increased over the past few years. Buying the right one is the first step to successful sleep therapy, but how does a CPAP machine work?

How Does it Work?

CPAP therapy involves a device or a machine that is usually about the size of a shoe box. It has flexible tubes that connect the device to the mask. The mask is then placed over the user’s mouth and nose to facilitate healthy breathing. These devices prevent stoppage of breathing by promoting good airflow. It delivers mild air pressure to ensure that the airways do not get obstructed.

A collapsed or obstructed airway minimizes the oxygen levels in your bloodstream which can lead to more serious health issues. CPAP machine, which stands for ‘Continuous Positive Airway Pressure’ gently opens the airway to allow continuous breathing thus, maintaining healthy oxygen levels during sleep.

Keep in mind that the amount of air pressure depends from one individual to another. It is the role of the doctor or licensed medical practitioner to determine the amount of pressure the patient needs. Patients need to undergo certain sleep study conducted by a sleep doctor. It is definitely recommended that you see a doctor first before purchasing any CPAP machine.

Automatic CPAP machines are also capable of identifying the differences between hypopneas, central, and obstructive apneas. It is quite typical to experience discomfort during the first few days of using the device. But by choosing the right machine, you can be assured that treating sleep apnea with CPAP devices does not give you any side effects.

Choosing the Right CPAP Machine

The choice of a CPAP machine shouldn’t be based only on its features and design but also your needs. They come in different forms and sizes. Some are heavy while other are portable, which you can carry with you wherever you go. Also, always check the technology that was installed inside the CPAP device before you start using it. Different devices also come at different prices. Choose those devices that have exceptional features and have excellent value.

Understanding how does a CPAP machine work should give you an idea about what features or functions you need to look out for. This should make things a lot easier and shopping for the best CPAP machine will become less stressful.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP Machine Side Effects And How To Address Them

CPAP Machine Side Effects And How To Address Them

If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, you’re probably aware of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy by now. It works as the CPAP machine delivers constant air pressure to the patient’s airway keeping it open and allowing him to breathe uninterrupted while he sleeps.

Just like with any other treatments, most patients will experience some minor CPAP machine side effects which, while not usually serious, can be a source of inconvenience and irritation to the user. We will discuss some of the common CPAP side effects and the ways they can be diminished or even totally eliminated.

CPAP Side Effects: What to Look Out For!

Exhaling Might Be Uncomfortable

This is one of the most common side effects when using the CPAP machine. This is understandable since the device uses air pressure to keep your airway open - you are basically forcing against the pressure with every exhalation you make. While some patients might overcome this initial discomfort over time, there will always be others who will still find it uncomfortable even after several treatment sessions. As a result, sleeping will be difficult since you’ll find it hard to relax.

One solution to this problem is to look for a machine that has a ramp feature. With this feature, you won’t have to feel the full pressure prescribed by the doctor right away. Instead, the machine has some sort of a timer, which can be as long as 45 minutes in most models, where it will gradually increase the pressure until it reaches the level indicated in your doctor’s prescription. Since there is there is this adjustment period, you will hopefully acclimatize with the increased pressure by then. Or better yet, you will fall asleep long before the ramp period is up.

But if you have some cash to spare, an even better solution is to get a bi-level CPAP machine. This type of device tracks your breathing pace and adjusts accordingly - it uses the prescribed pressure when you inhale but eases up the pressure when you exhale. As a result, it will feel like you are breathing normally as you don’t have to exert too much effort when you breathe out.

You Feel Claustrophobic With The Mask On

It’s relatively common for people to feel confined and claustrophobic when putting the mask on. However, a majority of users will bounce back and get used to it right away. The problem is for those few users who just can’t let go of their irrational fear as easily.

As they say, practice makes perfect and one method that might help you overcome this feeling is to practice using the mask even when it is still daytime. You can incorporate desensitization training at this time and initially put the mask on for a short period like 10 minutes or so then progressively increase the duration to longer periods of time. The rationale is that by practicing it while you are still awake, you will hopefully get so used to the feeling of the mask on their face that they won’t think anything about it when therapy time comes.

Using a CPAP machine might take some time getting used to. Fortunately, its side effects are not usually serious and can be considered just minor inconveniences. However, if you still experience some problems in using the device even after trying to make some adjustments, it is best to discuss the situation with your doctor, as he might be able to help you troubleshoot the issue and make changes in the machine’s setting or your therapy parameters.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Can a CPAP Machine Help You Loose Weight?Can a CPAP Machine Help You Loose Weight?

You might be wondering what this article is all about and reread the title once more just to be sure you got it right the first time. After all, the CPAP machine is a device primarily designed for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). So how can a CPAP machine help you loose weight?

CPAP and Weight Loss - What You Need to Know

Yet surprisingly, new studies now seem to suggest that the CPAP might just boost your chances of slimming down.

Why Weight Gain Can Lead To Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where a person stops breathing for 10 seconds or more multiple times during sleep at night. As a result, the person briefly awakens many times during the night as well though he may not remember doing so. Due to these interruptions, he will never get the full night’s restful sleep that his body needs.

Apparently, one of the most common causes of OSA in adults is being overweight. When one is overweight, the extra weight, coupled with the increased volume of the fat tissues, tend to exert more pressure on the internal organs which may even squeeze the airways. With a narrower airway, obstruction is likely to happen especially during sleep when muscles are relaxed. This explains why overweight people are prone to snoring which is also a symptom of OSA.

If excess weight can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea then reversing the risk factor should cure the condition, right? That is exactly what researchers found out. A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine concluded that for overweight patients, losing weight can cure their OSA.

Curing Sleep Apnea Can Also Help You Lose Weight

But the link between sleep apnea and weight does not just stop there. In fact, new studies have shown that curing your OSA might give you the boost you need in your weight reduction goals.

It has something to do with an appetite triggering hormone called ghrelin and the appetite-suppressing hormone called leptin. Ghrelin signals your brain that you are hungry and must eat while leptin sends the signal that you don’t need to eat.

Unfortunately for OSA sufferers, the proportion of these two hormones is out of whack. These patients have below-normal levels leptin while the ghrelin level is above. And the result is clear – sufferers tend to be hungrier more often which cause them to overeat and gain weight.

But the good news is, the situation can also be reversed. By treating OSA and getting more sleep, the levels of these two hormones can be normalized. As a result, your appetite will return to normal and you won’t be as ravenous as before.

It must be noted - CPAP and weight loss not is not guaranteed, but managing your sleep apnea by using a CPAP machine does not guarantee that you will actually lose weight. It will still take commitment on your part by watching your daily calorie intake and getting as active as you can. Staying healthy is vital and one thing we should keep in mind is that there are no shortcuts to doing this.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

How to Clean ResMed CPAP MachineResMed is one of the most respected names in the CPAP machine industry. The company has been developing highly-responsive machines that offer excellent comfort and reliable advanced technologies since 1989. Apart from helping the patients get the quality sleep they deserve, ResMed is also known for its excellent customer care support.

By visiting the ResMed website, you will discover that the company provides easy-to-follow instruction on how to clean ResMed CPAP machine. This should make things a lot more convenient for patients who undergo sleep therapy through CPAP machines. Cleaning a CPAP machine ensures optimum performance and at the same time, you are extending its lifespan if you do it properly.

Daily Clean Up

It is recommended that you disconnect the air tubing and hang it in a clean place every day. You will then disassemble the lid, plate, and base. Using warm and clean water with mild detergent is also advisable to avoid damages on the materials.

You can also find many of the best cpap cleaners on in the market today – just make sure that you verify whether or not it is safe and effective to use. You will then have to rinse the tub lid with clean water and let them dry. Keep in mind that exposing your device from direct sunlight is not a good idea. Following the right instructions on how to clean ResMed CPAP machine provides safe and effective results.

Monthly Maintenance

ResMed encourages their patients to disconnect the machine from the power supply and carefully wipe the outside with a damp cloth at least once a month. You have to be very careful when cleaning your machine and make sure that you avoid wetting the electrical areas. Wiping the exterior part of the CPAP therapy machine and humidifier with a clean damp cloth is also a good practice.

Be very careful when peeling the flip lid seal. And again, wash it with warm water and mild detergent. After doing this, you will then check for any blockage of dust or dirt on the air filter. For you to be 100% sure that your device is working properly, you have to check for air filter holes. If you see any holes or you think that there is too much blockage, then it is advisable that you replace the air filter.

It is recommended by the reputable company to replace the air tubing every 6 months or as often as necessary. A hole or blockage in the air filter can significantly affect the pressure delivered to your mask when sleeping.

Disinfecting the Machine

You need to know that the disinfecting the machine varies from one region to another. And so, it is smart that you consult your healthcare professional or facility first before disinfecting your machine. Some users use a little vinegar and mix it in the water with a diluted ratio of 1:1 when disinfecting their devices. After applying disinfectants or cleaning solutions, you will then have to wash and rinse it with clean water and let everything to air dry.

Additional Tips

Always remind yourself about the importance of keeping your cpap machine clean. Follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer to know the right information on how to clean ResMed CPAP machine. Also, following the advice of the medical experts or those who have been using ResMed CPAP machines for many years now is also a brilliant idea.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

VPAP vs CPAP: How to Choose the Best VPAP Breathing Machine

Things can become quite complicated when you’re diagnosed with sleep apnea.

Different doctors prescribe and recommend various types of therapies and machines. The process of choosing the right treatment then becomes not only overwhelming but also intimidating.

But before you dive into the world of sleep apnea breathing machines, you need to get familiar with their basic definitions first. Two of the most common machines you’ll often encounter in your search are VPAP and CPAP machines.

Read the rest of this article to know the difference between VPAP vs CPAP machines and help you decide which one’s right for you.

What is a VPAP Machine?

Also known as bi-level CPAP machines, VPAP machine stands for variable positive airway pressure machine. The term “variable” means that it varies between two different levels of air pressure--IPAP and EPAP.

IPAP stands for inspiratory positive airway pressure, which means that the machine delivers higher pressure during inhalation. EPAP means expiratory positive airway pressure, and this denotes the lower pressure that the machine delivers during exhalation.

What is a CPAP Machine?

Dubbed by the National Sleep Foundation as the leading therapy for sleep apnea, the CPAP machine stands for continuous positive airway pressure.

It's a breathing device that delivers air to a mask. You wear the mask over your nose and/or mouth to promote consistent breathing. The machine gently blows pressurized air through your airway at a constant pressure, keeping your throat from collapsing.

What’s the Difference Between VPAP vs. CPAP Machines?

Although both of these machines offer great benefits, they do have some differences.

One of the differences is that CPAP offers a steadier and more consistent airflow. Meanwhile, VPAP machines change pressure during inhalation and exhalation.

Final Thoughts

Millions of people with sleep apena have used different machines to treat their sleeping problem. But bear in mind that VPAP and CPAP machines are just two of the options for treating and managing sleep disorders.

For you to get the best treatment, make sure that you choose the most suitable machine for your breathing and sleeping needs. With hundreds of different VPAP and CPAP machines out there, choose a high-quality device manufactured by a reputable company.

Ask your doctor for prescriptions and recommendations. If you have a friend or family member who has already used these machines before, then don’t hesitate to seek advice from them as well. As long as you do your homework, you’ll eventually find the ideal sleep therapy machine that fits your needs.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Why Magnesium Is Nature’s Potent Cure For Insomnia

Why Magnesium Is Nature’s Potent Cure For Insomnia

These days, people who suffer from insomnia usually resort to sleeping pills to help them sleep better at night. While this treatment option definitely works, your body might eventually develop drug tolerance, so you’ll need larger doses to get the same effect in the future. These pills even come with unpleasant side effects, like headache, dizziness, daytime drowsiness, difficulty keeping balance, and even sleepwalking.

Thankfully, there’s a better and safer way to solve insomnia. Magnesium, which is present in certain food items such as green leafy vegetable and dark chocolate, is actually a potent weapon that you can use in your fight against sleep problems.

Want to know how you can use magnesium to get rid of insomnia? Read the rest of this blog post to find out.

Magnesium’s Link to Melatonin

If you suffer from sleep problems, chances are you’ve probably come across melatonin in your search for a possible natural remedy. Melatonin is a hormone that helps you relax and puts your body into sleep mode because it regulates your sleep/wake cycle.

What you may not know is that there is a link between magnesium and melatonin. Researchers revealed that magnesium depletion usually results in decreased melatonin production, migraine, and other sleep problems.

The bottom line is that an adequate level of magnesium will help you maximize melatonin levels which, in turn, help you sleep better at night as well.

How Magnesium Helps You Relax

Relaxing helps you fall asleep. But if you have insomnia, there are days that relaxing seems a bit tricky.

Yes, you can try some breathing and relaxation techniques, but they don’t work all the time. If you need some extra help to relax, magnesium might be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Magnesium binds with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, which is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. In effect, it helps reduce your neural activity and calm your nervous system. With a more relaxed and calm nervous system, you’ll be able to easily enter into sleep mode.

Plus, studies have shown that aside from making you sleep easier, magnesium can also help fight depression and anxiety.

The upside is that if you treat both depression and insomnia simultaneously, the chances of improving both your mood and your quality of sleep significantly increases.

Since magnesium happens to combat both disorders, you’ll have better chances of getting a night’s rest just by increasing your magnesium intake.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

BiPAP vs CPAP: Which Machine Works Best for You? - Originally posted hereIf you’re suffering from sleep apnea, you know how potentially dangerous it is. When you stop breathing all of a sudden, you’re opening up a whole bag of risks and complications like high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart diseases.

CPAP or BiPAP Machine? That is the question!

One of the most effective methods of treating sleep apnea is by using a continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP machine to keep your airway open while sleeping. This ensures that you get a steady supply of air in your lungs.

But there is also another machine that can help you deal with sleep apnea: the bi-level positive airway pressure or BiPAP machine. It’s newer than the CPAP machine as it was invented around a decade after the original CPAP machine.

Given these two, sleep apnea sufferers often wonder what type of machine to use; whether they should use a CPAP or a BiPAP machine to treat sleep apnea.

To answer this, we’ll be discussing what both machines do and under which situations they can be used.

Different Types of Sleep Apnea - And Should I Choose a CPAP or BiPAP?

Before going into detail about the various apnea machines, it’s important to know the different sleep apnea types first. Doing so will help you better decide which type of device might work best for you.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common kind of sleep apnea. Your airway gets blocked, so air can’t pass through, resulting in a momentary stopping of breath.

The blockage is usually caused by your throat muscles’ tendency to relax, causing you to snore as air has to be forced out during exhalation.

If your sleep apnea isn’t caused by any airway obstruction, then you might have the less common type--central sleep apnea (CSA). You stop breathing for up to ten seconds while sleeping because your brain did not send the signal instructing your lungs to continue breathing.

There’s also the complex sleep apnea or mixed sleep apnea, which is characterized by a combination of symptoms from OSA and CSA. The diagnosis of complex sleep apnea usually comes only after the sleeping disorder does not respond to CPAP therapy.

Which Is the Better Choice: BiPAP vs CPAP?

Both the CPAP and BiPAP machines work extremely well in treating sleep apnea. However, there are a few minor differences that you need to take into account when deciding which type of machine to purchase.

If you have OSA, the first choice is usually the CPAP machine. The BiPAP machine is usually the go-to option if you have CSA and other diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and congestive heart failure.

Moreover, the BiPAP machine can be programmed to monitor your breathing if you have CSA. In case it detects that you did not breathe for a set period of time, it pushes air into your lungs, essentially forcing you to breathe once more.

But take note that you can also use the BiPAP machine even if you have OSA. If you find the constant pressure of the CPAP machine too uncomfortable, or if your OSA remains unresolved, then the BiPAP machine is the next best thing.

Price-wise, the CPAP machine is cheaper than the BiPAP machine.

Keep in mind that you need a prescription to use these medical devices, so your doctor will be the one to recommend the type of machine you’re going to use.

But be sure to talk things through with your physician and explore the pros and cons of if to choose a BiPAP vs CPAP or CPAP vs BiPAP machine so that you can buy the one that’s right for you.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Originally posted: The Best BiPAP Masks to Help you Get a Good Night’s Rest

Investing in a BiPAP machine won’t amount to anything if you’re not comfortable with the face mask you’re wearing. This is why it’s crucial to know the different types of BiPAP masks. Before buying a BiPAP machine, it’s best to do your research and shop around for a mask that best fits your face, lifestyle, sleeping habits such as if you are a side sleeper and your doctor’s recommendations.

This article gives you an overview of the three types of cpap mask or BiPAP masks you can choose from to get a feel of what may be the perfect fit for you.

Full Face Mask

The most common type is the full face BiPAP mask, which covers both your nose and mouth. It is the most secure of the bunch, making it less likely to slip off your face even when you toss and turn in your sleep.

Full face BiPAP masks are ideal for patients with severe sleep apnea, as they need higher pressure for maximum effectiveness. It’s also great for people who breathe through their mouths because it covers both airways.

With a full face mask, you don’t have to deal with mouth leaks too frequently, compared to when you use a nasal mask or plug. That also means no more dry mouth in the morning.

But the full face mask can be a bit bulky. It also prevents you from wearing glasses or reading before going to bed. It’s also not ideal if you feel uncomfortable at the thought of having half of your face covered for the next eight hours.

Fortunately, you still have two other types of BiPAP masks to choose from.

Nasal Pillow

If you tend to feel a bit claustrophobic, a nasal pillow or nasal plug is your best option.

Plugged directly into the nose, it seals the nostrils so that pressurized air is delivered directly into your airways. It’s also easier to wear compared to a full face mask.

But as easy as it is to put on, it also has a tendency to slide off easily. A single harsh move and you risk yanking it out of your nose during the middle of the night. Thus, it may be a dealbreaker for those who move around too much in their sleep. The inside of your nostrils might also feel a bit raw with constant use.

Nasal Mask

If the nasal pillow is not as secure as you thought it would be, or the full face mask is too suffocating for you, then the nasal mask is the perfect compromise.

You won’t have to deal with the constricting feeling of having half of your face covered. You also won’t have to worry about waking up in the middle of the night to adjust your mask.

The nasal mask starts at the bridge of the nose and goes all the way down to the upper lip area. It delivers an indirect airflow to your airway, which makes it ideal for patients who need higher pressure settings on their BiPAP machine.

The nasal mask is also the most versatile of all BiPAP masks as some brands design masks catering to various facial structures.

It’s not a great option for mouth breathers, though, as the pressurized air can lead to mouth dryness. But you can usually resolve this by using a chin strap to keep your mouth shut while sleeping. If you find it uncomfortable, better skip nasal masks and opt for a full face mask instead.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

APAP vs CPAP: Which Therapy Should You Choose?
Debating whether to use APAP vs. CPAP for your obstructive sleep apnea?

You are not alone. Most people find it hard to choose which machine is right for them since they’re unaware of the differences between the two.

Both continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and auto positive airway pressure (APAP) therapies deliver pressurized air to your airways to help you breathe.

But while CPAP machines are usually the first choice in treating sleep apnea, some people can’t tolerate them. That’s when doctors prescribe them with APAP therapy.

But how do you even know which one is better the choice for your needs? Read on as we explain the differences between CPAP vs APAP.

Defining APAP Therapy vs CPAP Therapy

You’ve probably heard about CPAP machines more than APAP machines before, and that’s because a CPAP machine is the one that’s most commonly prescribed for sleep apnea patients.

It provides a fixed and continuous flow of oxygen into your airway as you inhale and exhale while sleeping.

CPAP machines usually come in the form of a small box with a built-in motorized fan, filter, humidifier, tube, and masks.

On the other hand, APAP machines, which are sometimes referred to as “self-adjusting CPAPs,” automatically adjust to the correct air pressure while you sleep. That means you don’t need to input anything or prompt it to change the pressure anymore.

APAP Therapy vs CPAP Therapy: The Difference

Based on the above definitions, you can already see the biggest difference between the two: the behavior of the air pressure.

CPAP only delivers a single fixed continuous pressure level of air. For most patients, CPAP is the only type of treatment they need, since CPAP pressure is optimally set for obstructive apneas.

Meanwhile, an APAP machine automatically adjusts its setting according to a specific person’s breathing needs.

Cost Difference Between APAP vs CPAP Machines

Since APAP has a more sophisticated technology, the cost of an APAP machine is higher than CPAP’s cost.

A CPAP machine normally costs between $500-$700, while an APAP machine costs around $900-$2000.

The APAP machine may be a better and more cost-effective device for long-term use. For most people, it’s a small price to pay for the comfort and convenience that an APAP machine offers, but for some, the cost of an APAP can be a huge barrier.

In most cases, patients who experience several changes in their breathing pattern during sleep choose APAP machines for their auto-adjustment settings.

Other patients who have had the same continuous issues over time have opted for CPAP machines. Some patients are just used to and generally do better with the continuous airway pressure from CPAP machines.

There are also patients who start with a CPAP machine and, after learning that the airflow does not manage their symptoms enough, switched to an APAP machine.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best CPAP Cleaner Reviewed 2020 | Buying Guide (Originally posted: https://wellawaresystems.com/best-cpap-cleaners/)

If you own a continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP machine, proper cleaning and maintenance is a must... but what is best, is a CPAP cleaner.

Hoses, tubings, and masks from your equipment can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Dust and bacteria in your CPAP equipment can spell serious health hazards and even decrease the durability of your equipment.

The easiest way to maintain the cleanliness of your CPAP equipment is to use the right CPAP cleaner. CPAP cleaning machines make regular maintenance and cleaning less aggravating.

Since there are lots of CPAP cleaners available in the market, it is easy to get confused about which one to pick. Therefore, to clear the fog, we’ve compiled and reviewed the best CPAP cleaners we can find in the market today.

Our CPAP Cleaner Reviews

3B Lumin CPAP Mask and Accessory Cleaner - Ozone Free UV Sanitizer and Disinfectant

Pros

  • Fast cleaning cycle
  • No maintenance needed
  • Ozone-free
  • Automatic and easy-to-operate

Cons

  • Leaves an after-use residual odor

SoClean 2 Go Travel CPAP Equipment Cleaner
Pros

  • ​Great for home or on the go​
  • ​Small and easy to carry around
  • Portable and battery-operated

Cons

  • Made of cheap plastic
  • Missing parts upon delivery based on customer reviews

**Genmine Portable Mini CPAP Cleaner Disinfector

Pros**

  • Low maintenance
  • Fits 22mm diameter CPAP tubes
  • Comes with a rechargeable lithium ion 2200 mAh battery
  • No requirement to connect AC and analog blocking cup
  • Lightweight design that’s easy to carry

Cons

  • Takes 25 minutes to clean
  • May be confusing to use

**Sani Bot CPAP Mask Sanitizer Cleaning Machine

Pros**

  • Automated cleaning process
  • Removes debris, dirt, oil, and several organic residues in a quick and easy manner
  • No after-use foul odor
  • Removes harmful bacteria, mildew, and mold
  • Compatible with an extensive range of mask types

Cons

  • Time-consuming to clean and maintain

Conclusion

It can be difficult to decide among these high-quality cleaners. Good thing there are a few simple considerations that may make your purchasing decision easier.
The first thing to consider is the kind of effort you’d like to exert when using the CPAP cleaner.

Some people prefer a manual or hands-on approach to cleaning, so they find wipes moistened with CPAP-safe chemicals as the best option. As thorough as modern methods are, nothing quite beats the certainty of cleaning something by hand.

However, most people prefer less manually intensive CPAP cleaners. They opt for soaking solutions, sprays, and various CPAP cleaning machines that require very little effort to keep a CPAP machine clean.

Whatever cleaning option you choose, it is important to clean your CPAP machines and accessories from time to time. Therefore, you can consider one of the above-listed CPAP cleaners.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

The Top 8 Best BiPAP Machines of 2020 How to Shop for the Best BiPap Machine in 2020

Are you planning to buy a BiPAP machine anytime soon? Then better get the best Bipap possible. Here are some of the most important things that you should look into:

Size and Weight

BiPAP machines come in different dimensions, so always consider the space that you have when buying one. If it is limited, then you might opt to choose a smaller variant.

Smaller and lighter BiPAP machines are best if you travel regularly and need to take the machine with you. It is better if you can find a machine with a compact container or carrying case.

Pressure Range

If you have sleep apnea, you’d usually need a pressure of about 4-16 cm. Ask your doctor about your prescribed pressure since BiPAP machines come with different pressure ranges.

Noise

Thanks to recent improvements, the motors used to power BiPAP machines have gotten much quieter. It is always best to choose noiseless models for better sleep.

Humidifier

Since you’ll be using a BiPAP machine for multiple hours daily, your throat and mouth are prone to dryness and irritation. That’s why you’d need a humidifier to add moisture to the pressurized air to lessen their occurrence.

Humidifiers may be detachable or built into the machine. Opt for a humidifier with a large reservoir so you can use it longer without the need for refills.

Sleep Data Collection

Some BiPAP machines have the ability to collect data of your sleeping pattern throughout the night, prompting the machine to provide the right pressure that suits your sleeping pattern.

Look for a BiPAP device that has this capability and also stores data for future reference.

Warranty

A BiPAP machine is composed of various internal parts that work as a whole. There’s always the danger of premature malfunction of one or more parts, so better look for a better BiPAP machine with at least two years of warranty.

The good thing is that virtually all BiPAP machines come with a warranty, although the time limit differs per manufacturer.

Conclusion

You have so many choices when it comes to machines models and masks out there, so make sure that you find the right device that can best respond to your respiratory issues. After all, it’s a significant investment for your health.

Always check with your healthcare provider before purchasing a BiPAP machine to make sure that you have the right features, cleaners, settings, and prescribed pressure. Take your time to carefully check all the details, if you are going to travel, check with your airlines regarding specifics.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

ResMed S9 Autoset CPAP Machine Review: The Answer to a Good Night’s Sleep

Do you randomly wake up at night, gasping for breath? Experience chronic tiredness throughout the day? Are you prone to morning headaches and restless sleep?

All these are symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea--a condition wherein your throat muscles block your airway when you sleep, causing you to breathe intermittently.

It’s not easy living with sleep apnea. It can even contribute to the development of health problems, like hypertension, heart problems, and diabetes.

Fortunately, you can keep it at bay with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. It blows pressurized air into your airway, keeping your throat from collapsing and helping you breathe and sleep better every night. It even helps with snoring problems so you don’t have to worry about disrupting your partner’s sleep ever again!

Key Features

Intuitive Interface

The device offers a fully colored screen with user-friendly controls. It’s also easy to set up, as long as you follow the instructions in the manual.

Both the CPAP machine and its heated humidifier attachment are easily removable for cleaning and traveling.

Mask-Fit System

The ResMed S9 AutoSet CPAP Machine has a Mask-Fit System that allows you to test the fit of the mask first. Because of this, it’s easy to check for leaks.

Climate Control Heated Humidifier

The H5i Heated Humidifier uses intelligent humidity controlling technology to offer optimum relief from dryness and congestion.

But take note that this attachment is optional and can be purchased as an add-on to your CPAP machine.

SlimLine Tubing

The narrow SlimLine tubing helps eliminate drag on your mask, thus improving overall mask fit and sleep comfort.

Easy-Breathe Technology

The ResMed S9 AutoSet automatically adjusts the pressure to make sure that it only provides the exact amount of pressure required from breath to breath.

Thanks to this technology, you can naturally and effortlessly breathe through the mask as if you’re not using a CPAP machine at all.

Smart Start / Smart Stop

ResMed's Smart-Start and Smart-Stop technologies allow you to start your machine automatically by breathing into the mask. Your CPAP treatment will also stop once the mask is removed.

No need for controls or switches that you might easily forget.

On-Display Advanced Data Reporting

The ResMed S9 AutoSet provides a snapshot of your sleep therapy directly on the device. Some of the data recorded include average usage, hours used, days used, run hours, and pressure.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Alcohol and sleep apnea

Sleep is generally known to assist recovery from physical, mental, and brain fatigue caused by daytime activities. Poor quality sleep leads to increased stress, fatigue, and mood disorders. It also raises risks of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.

If you suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), you must know that drinking alcohol can increase apnea events and their duration.

In OAS, breathing stops for brief periods during sleep. It's because the normal flow of air is repeatedly prevented throughout the night. Alcohol disturbs the length of sleep state and natural cycle by changing the total amount of time you sleep, and the time it takes you to fall asleep. In short, it can worsen your sleep apnea symptoms.

Recent research studies assess how alcohol affects your sleep apnea and snoring by relaxing airway muscles. These findings must make to want to change your drinking and sleep habits.

This article is compiled to provide information gathered from credible, fact-based sources to give you an overview of how alcohol affects your sleep apnea? Furthermore, if you choose to drink, we'll provide guide on how to get a better night's sleep. We also answer common questions that you may have about how drinking impacts sleep health.How Does Alcohol Affect Sleep Apnea?

Compared to the general population you are more likely to have OSA if you are:

  • Obese or overweight
  • Older or middle-aged
  • Have anatomy that narrows the airway

About 20 per cent of Americans have obstructive sleep apnea, and only 10% have a diagnosis. Even if you don't have a diagnosis, there is a strong association between alcohol and OSA. Especially if you already snore and have alcohol use disorder, you may be at higher risk for developing OSA.

“Research studies show that people who don't even have the condition; moderate or heavy drinking can cause episodes of obstructive sleep apnea.”

For those with OSA, the consequences of sleep apnea become more pronounced when you drink because it relaxes your muscles and diminishes your arousal response time.

Does Alcohol Cause Sleep Apnea?

Alcohol doesn't cause sleep apnea. But research shows that patients who engaged in frequent alcohol use, regular drinking puts them at higher risk for developing sleep apnea. It can also make current OSA episodes worse. The best recommendation for patients that are at risk of developing OSA is to abstain from drinking.

Should Sleep Apnea Sufferers Avoid Alcohol?

Well, if you have sleep apnea, the best advice would be to abstain from all alcohol use. Here are research-based reasons;

Alcohol and Sleep in Those With Alcoholism

Many people who have insomnia will take a drink before bedtime to help them fall asleep. According to a National Sleep Foundation survey:

"In the general population, 30% of people with persistent insomnia have reported that alcohol helps them sleep in the past year. And 67% of those demonstrated that alcohol was useful in inducing sleep."

Alcohol And Sleep In Those With Low And Moderate Drinking

Studies have found that alcohol consumed even six hours before bedtime can increase wakefulness during the second half of sleep. Even though the alcohol consumed has already been eliminated from the body.

How to Sleep Better After Drinking Alcohol?

  • Use Your Treatment For Sleep Apnea Every Night
  • Become A Side Sleeper
  • Observe How Much Alcohol You Consume

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best CPAP Mask 2020
So now that you’ve found the perfect CPAP machine, it means that all is well and good, right?

While you’re more than halfway through having a better night’s rest, there is still one factor that you have to consider - the best CPAP mask to wear.
The mask you’ll be using can determine your overall experience with using a CPAP machine.

Considerations When Buying a New CPAP MaskIn this guide, we give you seven of the best C-PAP masks that are worth investing in.

ResMed AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow Mask with Headgear
A quick Google search on the best CPAP masks will show that ResMed is a name that is quite known in the industry. Their AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask further proves this.

First of all, the AirFit P10’s QuietAir woven-mesh vent technology makes it one of the quietest among other CPAP masks.

This means that you won’t have to get used to any kind of noise emitted by your mask to lull you to sleep.

One great thing about nasal pillows is that they are lighter and more compact as compared to the best full face masks and CPAP nasal masks. ResMed takes pride on their product being 50% lighter as compared to other nose pillows. This makes it ideal for travel, especially as you will already be bringing along a bulky machine.

When ordering a face mask to complement your CPAP machine, manufacturers don’t often include the whole package. What makes the Airfit P10 great is that it already comes with the headgear to support and stabilize the nasal pillows in place.

Its innovative split-strap design keeps facial contact at a minimum, promoting utmost comfort once you slip it on.

The package already includes three pillow sizes ranging from small to large so that you won’t have to guess which one will fit well into your nostrils.

ResMed Swift FX Pillow

Another ResMed product on this list is the Swift FX Pillow, a nasal mask that promises that you’ll forget you even have one on.

This is because this nasal CPAP mask takes pride on having a minimalist appearance. This means it won’t even be noticeable during those moments when you’d like to read a novel or watch the TV with the kids before going to bed.

With such flexibility, it has a super soft fit and settles in snugly into the contours of your nose.
The dual-wall pillow is also an added feature. It ensures stability without giving you the feeling that you have to restrain yourself from moving too much.

AirTouch™ F20 Cushion

Wearing a CPAP face mask for eight straight hours doesn’t sound like the most comfortable feeling in the world. For those who are concerned about the mask leaving a red mark around their nose and mouth area, ResMed’s AirTouch™ F20 is the solution to your worries.

This full face mask has an UltraSoft™ memory foam cushion, making it one of the softest face masks in the market. ResMed even allows you to choose between two types of cushions -- the AirTouch 20 memory foam and AirFit 20 InfinitySeal cushion.

With its memory foam and modular design, this full face mask is designed to conform to the unique features of each person’s face. This means that you won’t have to worry if it will be comfortable enough.

Final Thoughts

With all these mask options, you won’t have to worry about not having the perfect mask to go along with the machine you recently invested in.

How about your doctor’s requirements?

Lastly, the way you sleep can also be a big factor.

Ready to find your perfect match?

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Love Zyppah & Snore No More: Review of the Zyppah MouthpieceGot a partner who snores?

Or maybe your partner is complaining of your endless snoring at night?

Whatever the situation is for you, snoring can rob you of quality sleep, leaving you drained and tired in the morning.

In fact, some couples opt to sleep apart because they can’t take the other’s snoring anymore.

Thankfully, people no longer have to suffer for long since there are plenty of solutions to choose from, such as anti-snoring mouthpieces.
And among the mouthpieces available in the market today, the Zyppah for snoring mouthpiece is one of the most popular options.

We review this stop snoring mouthpiece and what makes it worth your time, effort, and money.

What is Zyppah? Does Zyppah work?

The Zyppah Mouthpiece is a highly rated product designed to treat snoring. It works by positioning your lower jaw slightly forward so your airway remains unblocked when you sleep.

One advantage of this product is it is very easy to use--you just place it inside your mouth before going to bed and take it off when you wake up.

For an anti-snoring device to work properly, the right fit is necessary. It won’t be an issue with Zyppah, however, since it can be custom-fitted by your physician.

You can even make the adjustments yourself by using the boil and bite method. This is done by placing the mouthpiece in hot water to soften the interior portion, then biting into it to make a dental impression. The result is a mouthpiece tailor-fit for your mouth.

Key Features of the Zyppah Snore no more:

Mandibular Advancement Device

One common cause of snoring is that your tongue partially obstructs your airway, especially when you sleep on your back. That’s what the Zyppah Mouthpiece tries to avoid.

Classified as a mandibular advancement device, the Zyppah mouthpiece helps open up your airway by putting gentle pressure on your jawbone and pushing it slightly forward while you sleep. Since the tongue is attached to this bone, it will move forward as well, preventing it from obstructing your air passage.

If tongue obstruction is the cause of your condition, this device might be the snoring cure you’ve been looking for.

Tongue Retaining Device

The Zyppah Mouthpiece also counts as a tongue-retaining device (TRD). It has the Snoring Eliminator, a patented tongue-elastic feature that works like a tongue restrainer.

In case pushing the jaw forward is not enough, this device’s elastic tongue support keeps the tongue in place, effectively preventing it from falling back no matter what sleeping position you’re in.

Easily Customizable

The Zyppah Mouthpiece only comes in one size, but it’s not a problem as far as fitting is concerned. You can customize it to exactly fit your mouth.

Personalize the Zyppah Mouthpiece using the boil and bite method.

Durable and Long-Lasting

Anti-snoring mouthpieces are expected to wear down quickly since they’re supposed to be used every night.

For the Zyppah Mouthpiece, it has a lifespan estimated to be between nine to twelve months--on par with industry standards.

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

With the device’s 90-day money-back guarantee, you can return the device within this period if you are not satisfied with the snoring relief it can give you.

This basically means that you can test out the device if it works for you. And in case it does not, you don’t need to worry since you can still get a refund.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Keep Your CPAP Machine Germ-Free With The SoClean 2 CPAP Cleaner: A ReviewIf you’re like most people, you’re probably not a big fan of all types of cleaning chores.
Let’s be honest here - who loves vacuuming the carpet, washing the dishes, or mowing the lawn?

And it gets even worse if you own a CPAP machine.

You have to take apart the mask’s components and clean each and every nook and cranny to ensure it’s all sanitized and free from harmful germs and bacteria.

But there’s actually an easier way to get the job done, and that’s by using one of the best CPAP cleaners.

The SoClean 2 CPAP Cleaner.

With this machine, you can properly sanitize your CPAP wares at the mere touch of a button.

The CPAP machine has been proven to be an effective sleep apnea treatment option. But just like all medical equipment, proper care and maintenance is a must.

Doctors recommend that these machines be regularly cleaned and sanitized as its moist interior parts might become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria.

The manual method of cleaning the device with soap and water might be effective in removing oil and dirt, but it is not a reliable method if you want to kill microorganisms.

A better way of sanitizing the masks is by using ozone disinfection, which is a method employed by the SoClean 2 CPAP cleaner. According to its claims, it can kill 99.99 percent of all bacteria, molds, and viruses--guaranteed.

Despite being available only in one size, it works well with most CPAPs.

Would we recommend the SoClean 2 for CPAP users? Definitely! The fact that it is guaranteed to kill 99.9 percent of potentially dangerous microorganisms is good enough for us to give it a thumbs up.

But of course, we understand that this product may not be attractive to some buyers. A major consideration is its price, which might appear too steep for a CPAP cleaning option.

But for those who can afford it, it’s worth every penny for its ability to keep harmful bacteria at bay and the peace of mind it brings to the CPAP user.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Cure Snoring Fast With the PureSleep Mouthpiece: A Review
Surprising as it may sound, about 40 percent of adult males and 24 percent of adult women snore.

If you belong to this group, chances are you’ve been receiving endless complaints from your sleeping companion who’s already fed up with your loud snoring.

But there’s a very simple and effective way to get rid of your snoring.
Anti-snoring mouthpieces are now helping millions of sufferers cure the condition and give them the restful, energizing sleep they deserve.

If you’re looking for an affordable yet effective snoring remedy, the PureSleep Mouthpiece might be what you are looking for.

We’ve reviewed the device for you to help you decide if it’s the right option for you.

Overview

The PureSleep Mouthpiece might look deceptively simple, yet it gets to the heart of your snoring problem really fast. By preventing the tongue from blocking your airway, it solves your snoring woes, giving you the restful sleep you’ve been craving for.

This is a one-size-fits-all device, so you don’t need to worry about sizing when buying this mouthpiece. Though getting the customization procedure right takes some time, the PureSleep Mouthpiece comes with instructions that are easy to understand.

Key Features

Prevents Airway Obstruction

More often than not, you snore because something’s blocking your airway.

Your tongue might move towards the back portion of your mouth while you sleep. Or the soft tissue at the back portion of your throat partially blocks your airway, causing you to snore.

Because of this partial blockage, air has to force its way through the narrow airway when breathing, resulting in that irritating snoring sound. It’s quite a common occurrence when you sleep on your back.

But the PureSleep Mouthpiece offers a simple yet effective solution to this age-old problem. As a Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD), it prevents airway blockage by gently pushing the lower jaw forward. This gentle pressure prevents both the tongue and soft tissue from blocking the air passage since they are attached to your jaw.

As a result, you’ll be able to breathe more easily with this device in place. You’ll be enjoying a snore-free sleep every time you use the PureSleep Mouthpiece.

30-Day Return Period

Worried that the mouthpiece might not be effective for you?

It shouldn’t be a cause of concern because you may still return the product and ask for a refund within 30 days from the date of purchase. Test the product out first and if it doesn’t work for you, then don’t hesitate to return it and get your money back.

Made of BPA and Latex-Free Material

Buyers these days are better informed when it comes to product safety. For instance, buyers are now careful not to buy products that may contain potentially harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A or BPA.

Thankfully, BPA exposure will never be an issue when using the PureSleep Mouthpiece as it is made from BPA-free plastic. The plastic is also latex-free, which means that even those with latex allergy can safely use this device.

Easily Customizable

The PureSleep mouthpiece initially arrives as a two-piece device that you have to assemble after you complete the customization process.

Since it is basically molded using your teeth and mouth as the model, you’re assured that the resulting fit is perfect for you. It also has air holes in the device designed for people who breathe through their mouths.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Say Goodbye To Snoring With These Anti-Snoring Mouthpieces: A Buying GuideSnoring is a rather common problem, so a lot of snorers just brush off the condition as nothing to be worried about. After all, everyone knows a fellow snorer or two among his circle of friends, right?

But medical experts reiterate that snoring should be checked, especially if it is habitual. It can cause you to wake up multiple times and deprive you of a restful, energizing sleep.

It also increases your risk of certain diseases, like high blood pressure and even enlargement of the heart. More worrying still is that snoring might also increase your risk for stroke and heart attack.

No, we don’t mean to scare you. In fact, there are plenty of options available to remedy your snoring problem--the most common of which are anti-snoring mouthpieces.

Take a look at this anti-snoring mouthpiece reviews / buying guide to see which one can help you sleep better at night.

A Guide in Choosing the Right Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece

Don’t know how to choose which of these best anti-snoring mouthpieces is right for you? We’ve included some tips and tricks in this section to help you choose the product which suits you best.

Take advantage of trial periods or money-back guarantees.

You’ll never know if a product works unless you give it a try.

You may find a highly-rated product with tons of positive reviews, but that doesn’t mean it will suit you.

Thus, choosing mouthpieces offering these money-back guarantees and trial periods will allow you to return the product and get a refund if it fails to work for you.

Read Stop Snoring Mouthpiece Reviews.

Product reviews give you an insight on just how satisfied or dissatisfied people are with a particular mouthpiece. If positive reviews just keeping piling up, there’s a good chance that the product really worked for a lot of people.

But be discerning of reviews as well because not all reviews online can be trusted. Aside from buying guides like these, you may also check out review sites for some legit and trustworthy mouthpiece reviews.

Determine the cause of your snoring.

There are a number of factors that might cause your snoring.

It might be caused by your tongue partially blocking your airway, or your throat’s tissue becoming too relaxed. It can even be caused by weight problems.

Depending on the cause, you can choose the features that you need in an anti-snoring mouthpiece.

Never neglect comfort.

The biggest reason why you want to solve your snoring woes is that you want to get a restful sleep as much as possible. Obviously, you can’t sleep well if your mouthpiece is giving you too much discomfort.

Thus, always be mindful of the comfort level of the product when you make a buying decision.

Conclusion

With the latest advancements in medical technology, you now have a wide range of snoring remedies. The trick is to find a treatment that works best for you.

The important thing to consider when choosing the right mouthpiece is that it should treat the cause of your snoring. There are even apps available to help diagnose your snoring issues, but if your condition is caused by your throat tissue relaxing and partially obstructing your airway during sleep, then a MAD type of mouthpiece is a good option to consider. If it’s your tongue blocking your airway, then you can use a MAD-TRD hybrid like the Zyppah Mouthpiece.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

A Simple Buying Guide to Finding the Best CPAP Masks for Side SleepersIf you suffer from sleep apnea, I’m sure you’ve heard about sleep apnea therapy before. Maybe you’ve already tried wearing different masks to help you breathe easier and reduce your apnea episodes.

But as relieving as CPAP masks are, you find them annoying to wear, so you just tuck them inside your drawers, gathering dust. You still haven’t found the right CPAP or BiPAP mask that’s both efficient and comfortable to wear.

The truth is, you’re not alone. Studies show that about half of people prescribed with CPAP machines stopped using them within 1 to 3 weeks due to discomfort and inconvenience. Many patients refuse to wear the mask because they find it big, bulky, and obtrusive.

So, is there a CPAP mask out there that takes your comfort into consideration?

Check out our reviews and discover why it’s our top pick for the most comfortable CPAP mask out there.

What to Consider in Buying a CPAP Mask

What features do you really need? Which design best suits you? How do you even know which best fits you?

To help you answer those questions, here are some important factors you need to consider when buying a CPAP mask:

Comfort and Flexibility

Since you often sleep on your side, it’s advisable that you choose a mask that received high ratings in comfort.

Choose products that are slender, flexible, and lightweight. These should give you the best chance of enjoying an uninterrupted sleep at night.

Shape

Your ears take a lot of pressure when you sleep on your side. That’s why it’s vital that you find a mask that has a lot less going on around the side of your head.

Take note that the less structure of the mask you are pressed up against, the more you’ll be able to forget that you’re wearing one.

Less Bulk

If you like to sleep on your side, then it’s necessary that you choose a mask that’s not bulky. A full face mask may not be the best option for side sleepers.

Conclusion

Being a side sleeper is not really an issue when it comes to CPAP treatment. There are multitudes of products you can find in the market today that cater to side sleepers. What’s really important is that you get to choose something that works for you.

Before you buy any CPAP masks, make sure that you consider several factors such as your budget, comfort, size, portability, and sleeping position. Remember that not all products are the same. Your objective is to find a mask that helps you achieve the best quality of sleep every night.

If you’re still having trouble finding the best CPAP mask, then it’s recommended that you seek advice from your friends, family, or even health professionals who specialize in sleep apnea. They should be able to provide you useful tips and guidelines on how to choose the appropriate mask for you.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask Review

If you suffer from sleep apnea, I’m sure you’ve heard about sleep apnea therapy before. Maybe you’ve already tried wearing different masks to help you breathe easier and reduce your apnea episodes.

But as relieving as CPAP masks are, you find them annoying to wear, so you just tuck them inside your drawers, gathering dust. You still haven’t found the right CPAP mask that’s both efficient and comfortable to wear.

The truth is, you’re not alone. Studies show that about half of people prescribed with CPAP machines stopped using them within 1 to 3 weeks due to discomfort and inconvenience. Many patients refuse to wear the mask because they find it big, bulky, and obtrusive.

So, is there a CPAP mask out there that takes your comfort into consideration?

Cue in the AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask.

Overview
The AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow is not your ordinary CPAP mask.

Unlike other CPAP masks, it was designed with efficiency and comfort in mind. It’s light, compact, and effective.

In a recent clinical study conducted by its manufacturer ResMed, patients who used the mask were able to sleep for more than 40 minutes longer per night compared to non-users. That’s almost 5 hours per week of additional quality sleep!

What makes this particular mask a cut above the rest is that it encourages you to stay compliant with your sleep therapy.

One package includes a mask, headgear, three pairs of nasal pillows in various sizes, and two headgear clips.

ResMed made sure that they are able to create and develop a product that has excellent usability, matchless efficiency, and extremely high level of comfort.

Key Features include:

Ultra-Lightweight and Comfortable -
ResMed made the AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask 50% lighter than its previous nasal masks.

And apart from its feather-light weight, the mask is also designed for a snug yet comfy fit. It has a clearly defined left and right nostril orientation to ensure that it fits perfectly with whoever uses it. It also comes in four different sizes: extra small, small, medium, and large.

With the comfort and flexibility it provides, this mask accommodates your movements to ensure a secure CPAP therapy.

QuietAir Technology-
Dubbed by ResMed as their “quietest mask to date,” the AirFit P10 mask is equipped with QuietAir woven-mesh vent technology that significantly reduces machine noise.

It quietly directs and diffuses exhaled air in multiple directions, thus dramatically reducing noise. You and your partner can now enjoy uninterrupted sleep.

Award-Winning Design-
It’s also worth mentioning that the AirFit P10 won the 2014 Red Dot Award for design.

The mask has a three-piece system that makes it easy to assemble and disassemble, facilitating fast and easy setup and cleaning.

It’s also easy to fit the mask since it can be easily adjusted by sliding the two back straps together or wider apart. Time for you to ditch those annoying Velcro tab adjusters and clunky clips!

Even better, the mask seals on contact, allowing you to freely move around without fear of breaking the seal. Plus, it’s safe to use since it does not contain latex, PVC, DEHP, or phthalates.

Actual Feedback from Users:
“Much lighter and more comfortable than my old masks.”

“I love the Airfit P10 nasal pillow. It is very quiet and very comfortably stays in place throughout the night. My new mask for the future.”

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Z1 Auto CPAP Machine Review: Your CPAP Machine on the Go

Compact enough to fit in one’s palm, the Z1 Auto CPAP Machine only weighs about 10 ounces. Now, you can take your CPAP therapy while traveling without having to worry about weight and space.

The Z1 Auto CPAP also promotes uninterrupted sleep, thanks to its ultra-quiet motor that only registers 26 dBA during operation.

The machine also has a patented Z-Breathe technology that enhances comfort by lowering CPAP pressure during exhalation based on your breathing pattern. Every user can now enjoy prescribed levels of pressure as it auto adjusts to your pressure needs while you sleep.

It comes with a built-in Bluetooth chip so you can wirelessly connect the machine to nearby tablets and smartphones using the free Nitelog app. The app allows you to review and share sleep reports, and even control and adjust basic machine settings, like ramp and Z-Breathe. The app works in both iOS and Android devices.

Key Features include:

The Z1 Auto measures only about 6.5 inches and weighs 10.4 ounces, making it one of the lightest auto CPAP machines in the market.

You also don’t have to worry about power since it has a built-in power supply that auto adjusts from 100V to 240V.

And since it is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, you can count on it for in-flight use.

Intelligent Pressure Relief

Aside from being compact and lightweight, the Z1 Auto CPAP Machine automatically adapts to your breathing requirements every time you use it.

Thanks to its pressure relief feature, it can effectively reduce the air pressure every time you exhale. Your breathing becomes more natural due to the overall lower airstream pressure.

What’s more is that you can also adjust the levels of the Z-Breathe feature: 1 for gentle pressure relief, 2 for moderate pressure relief, and 3 for large pressure relief.

Nitelog App and Data Reporting

Want to make sure you have a record of all your sleep information? You can keep track of it using the Nitelog App.

This data recording and reporting app allows you to easily share your sleep information with your physician. You can download it to any mobile iOS or Android device, and even sync it directly to your device via Bluetooth.

It even doubles as a remote control for the machine, allowing you to adjust specific settings. Best of all, the Nitelog App is free!

Heat Moisture Exchange Humidifier Filter

No need to shell out extra money for a humidifier filter. The Z1 Auto CPAP Machine already includes a top-grade humidifier system, which acts as a more convenient alternative to bulky water-based humidifiers.

The Heat Moisture Exchange (HME) requires no additional power since it’s an inline waterless humidification solution.
High-Quality Integrated Battery

Need a CPAP machine with a long running time? You can now purchase an optional integrated battery for the Z1 Auto CPAP Machine.

Known as the PowerShell with Extended Life, the integrated battery can extend uninterrupted sleep therapy for at least 8 hours, cord-free!

PowerShell is definitely designed with travelers in mind since it holds both the machine and battery together in one pack.

Feedback from Users

“Took this to Europe and loved it. Have used on several other trips and I am HAPPY with the performance. The improvement in weight from lugging my old machine along is wonderful. I would recommend this product and wish I had purchased several years ago. I paid for this machine myself, not insurance, and I think it was a good purchase. “

“Took my HDM Z1 to Italy last month and was very surprised how we

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

The ZQuiet Review: Does this Anti-Snoring Device Work?

Do you sound like a loud and harsh tuba whenever you snore?
Has it gotten so out of control that your partner won’t even share a bed with you?

We understand how frustrating it can be. After all, all you ever wanted is a good night’s sleep not just for you, but for your family as well.

But before you start sleeping in separate bedrooms, know that this isn’t the only feasible solution for your snoring problem.

The truth is, there are many effective remedies that can help you and your whole family sleep better at night without hearing any thunderous snore.

And one of the best ways for you to ease snoring is through stop snoring mouthpieces.

What is the ZQuiet Anti-Snoring Mouthpiece?

Anti-snoring mouthpieces open up the airway by repositioning your tongue or jaw while sleeping. By doing this, it efficiently solves mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

In case you’re not familiar with sleep apnea, it’s a condition that shouldn’t be taken lightly because it closes your airways and stops your breathing throughout the night. The result? Daytime fatigue, irritability, and snoring. It can even increase your risk of developing heart diseases.

If you’re snoring because of sleep apnea, then it should be a cause for concern. You’d want to give anti-snoring mouthpieces a try, but do you have any clue what specific product to buy?

Well, today is your lucky day since we will be reviewing one of the most popular anti-snoring mouthpieces available in the
market today – the ZQuiet Mouthpiece.

The ZQuiet stop snoring mouthpiece is a pretty popular top-grade anti-snoring device for people who suffer from sleep apnea.

But it isn’t a strip you wear on your nose or some kind of magical elixir you spray in your mouth. This small dental device is actually a mouth guard that you can wear all night to prevent snoring.

Your jaw falls backward and inward when you have sleep apnea, causing upper airway constriction during sleep and leading to snoring. Wearing the device inside your mouth forces the jaw to move into a forward position, efficiently keeping your airways open at night. In fact, most anti-snoring devices today work based on the same principle.

That’s why the ZQuiet Mouthpiece is also called a mandibular advancement device (MAD). It effectively promotes excellent blood oxygenation and helps prevent sleep apnea and snoring.

The ZQuiet stop snoring mouthpiece lets you breathe easily because it doesn’t pull your mouth closed.
Thanks to its Living Hinge technology, the mouthpiece allows natural movement of your mouth and jaw and promotes excellent airflow.

You can easily clean the device using warm water, toothbrush, and dish soap.
It’s not advisable to clean it using toothpaste since it causes disintegration and discoloration.

Although the product does not include any warranty, the company offers a 30-day trial for which you can pay less than $10 to see if it works for you.

Actual Reviews from Users
“My husband said he thought I was dead because I was so quiet--I slept 10 straight hours. I am feeling rested and have recommended the product to several people. I did experience discomfort at first, but it disappeared after a week or two. I would recommend that the product be manufactured with either the upper or lower a slightly different color to differentiate between them.”

“Relatively comfortable device that really helped stop my snoring. It didn't take long to get used to and my sleep (and that of my wife) is much better.”

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

https://wellawaresystems.com/does-insurance-cover-cpap/

Does Insurance Cover CPAP? Prescription and Insurance Rules When it Comes to CPAP Machines

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines are a vital treatment method when it comes to mitigating the effects of sleep apnea. It works by continuously sending air through your throat so that your airway stays open and unobstructed while you sleep. This process counteracts the pauses in breath that occur during sleep in patients with sleep apnea.

Is a CPAP covered by insurance?

Keep reading to learn all the rules surrounding CPAP machines, prescriptions, insurance, and more.

Getting a CPAP machine without prescription

The answer to this question is a little complicated. The short answer? Not exactly. The FDA requires patients to obtain a prescription to purchase a full CPAP machine. However, the FDA does not require a prescription to buy CPAP supplies.

Some suppliers have circumvented this discrepancy by offering parts of a CPAP machine separately. This process allows them to provide CPAP equipment to consumers who do not have a prescription. A few of these suppliers have completely reorganized their business models so that they do not even offer any CPAP equipment that requires a prescription anymore. The equipment these companies sell to those cpap machine without prescription does not differ in quality from supplies that do call for a prescription.

Is Ordering a CPAP Machine Without a Prescription Legal?

Technically, ordering a full CPAP machine without a prescription is not legal. However, if were to purchase necessary components, packaged separately, then it is considered CPAP accessories, and it is permissible to buy. For example, you could easily buy a CPAP mask from a retailer online, but you would not be able to buy the full machine.

Does Insurance Cover CPAP?

Unfortunately, insurance is a whole different beast compared to prescriptions. There are many different policies and rules that you need to understand before you can get a CPAP machine through your insurance. The stringent requirements have driven many patients to just pay for the devices out of pocket.

How Much is a CPAP Machine with Insurance?

The amount you will have to pay to use a CPAP device through your insurance varies by policy, but generally takes the form of copays and deductibles. There are very few, if any, insurance policies that will fully cover the cost of a CPAP device.

How Much is a CPAP Machine without Insurance?

The full cost of CPAP machines can range from $500 to $3000. The average price tends to hover right at about $850. However, some suppliers may provide payment plans to make the cost less burdensome outright.

Does Insurance Pay for a Second CPAP Machine

Most insurance companies will not cover a second CPAP machine because they follow strict replacement schedules. They will only supply replacement parts after a certain amount of time or if you demonstrate a certain amount of need. However, many people consider buying a second machine for travel, emergency, and sanitary reasons.

Does Medicaid Cover CPAP?

Medicaid will cover CPAP, but the amount of coverage varies by state, and it requires authorization. Deductibles and copays will almost definitely apply unless you also have secondary insurance. It is also important to note that CPAP supplies are covered differently than the machine itself and may have different standard rates.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Test yourself for sleep apnea in the comfort of home

• Have you ever woken up with a headache or dry mouth?
• Do you feel tired and groggy even after a good night's sleep?
• Are you overweight, obese, or recently had a sudden weight gain?

You could have the health condition known as sleep apnea. Your body might not be getting the oxygen it needs during sleep.

Thankfully, this home sleep apnea test, is easily available. An at home sleep apnea test is as effective as staying in a sleep lab, but much less expensive. The difference with a sleep apnea home test is you're in the comfort of your own surroundings, so the readings are more likely to be accurate.

What is Sleep Apnea?

This is when the muscles of your upper airway relax while you're asleep, narrowing the airway so you don't get enough oxygen during the night. This results in breathing that pauses for more than 10 seconds during sleep - until your reflexes kick in and you start to breathe again.

• If you're waking up with a dry mouth, this is due to sleep apnea. This condition causes you to breathe open-mouthed, which in turns dries out your saliva.
• Your headache might be caused by high carbon dioxide and low oxygen levels as you sleep.
• If you snore, this can also be a sign of sleep apnea (Bear in mind that you can snore loudly and not have sleep apnea, and you could even have this condition without snoring).

It can have significant impact in your daily life - from falling asleep while studying and poor productivity at work, to mood swings and even car accidents. So it pays to take sleep apnea seriously.

What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Quite often, but not always, there is a link between obesity and sleep apnea. Evidence also shows a link between sleep apnea and a higher risk of diabetes, as sleep apnea can increase blood sugar levels, as well as heart rate, blood pressure and stress hormones.

How to Cure Sleep Apnea

One of the most effective ways to avoid or treat sleep apnea if you're overweight is, unsurprisingly, weight loss. If there is accumulated fat in the upper belly, tongue and neck, there is an increased chance of sleep apnea. And for premenopausal women, with weight shifting to the stomach, the likelihood of sleep apnea becomes more of an issue too.

However, it's possible to treat this condition with a home sleep apnea test. Let's dive into how this CPAP home sleep test review to determine whether this method is actually effective.

Our Home Sleep Apnea Test Review

Product Specifications:

The kit comes with detailed instructions and features:
• A simple belt to hold the portable sleep data monitor around your chest, recording your breathing attempts
• A pulse oximeter to wear on your fingertip to track your heart rhythms and blood oxygen levels
• A non-intrusive nasal cannula to capture your breathing pattern

What Does it Do?

If your other half tells you that you snort or snore, then using a sleep apnea home test can be the first step to address this issue. The kit measures your airflow, heart rate and oxygen in your blood. In other words, it measures pauses in and absence of breathing, whether you have shallow breathing and how much effort it takes to breathe.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Sleep Apnea Test at Home (2/2)

The kit measures moderate sleep apnea using a system called the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). The AHI measures the number of breathing pauses experienced per hour while you sleep:

• Mild sleep apnea is between 5 and 15
• Moderate sleep apnea is between 15 and 30
• Severe sleep apnea records an AHI of over 30 hourly episodes

The sleep apnea home test features sensors in the pulse oximeter that you wear on your finger, measuring your oxygen levels. The other sensors are in the portable sleep data monitor that you wear around your chest to measure how you breathe. The nasal cannula is a CPAP mask with tubes that you insert in your nostrils and fix around your ears. Think of it like an oxygen mask which also analyses your breathing patterns.

Who is This For?

• If you or your partner have any of the following symptoms:
• Interrupted sleep
• Grogginess, headache or dry mouth on waking
• If you or your partner are overweight or obese

How to Use This Kit

To use the sleep apnea test at home:

• Follow your night-time routine and get yourself ready for bed.
• Then fit the adjustable strap around your chest so that it's secure and won't move during the night.
• Fix the portable data monitor onto the chest strap, so that the connection to the nasal cannula is facing upwards towards your face.
• Then plug in the nasal cannula into the top of the data monitor.
• Carefully put the nasal cannula loops behind your ears and the cannula opening into your nose.
• Put the heart rate sensor on your finger tip and tape the wire to the back of your hand. The data monitor unit will record for a few minutes and then turn off. The recording starts when you plug in the chest strap, and finishes when you unplug it the following morning.

Need to visit the restroom during the night? Just leave the chest strap plugged in and unplug the other sensors if needed. Remember to plug them back in on your return.

How to Get the Most Accurate Reading

For the most accurate home sleep apnea test reading, it's best to have time sleeping on your back. Sleep apnea is worse when you're on your back, but lessens once you turn onto your side.

What Happens Next?

Your results will be reviewed by a sleep technologist who will keep your doctor updated. If your symptoms persist, they may recommend a stay at a sleep lab for further detailed analysis.

How Much is a Sleep Apnea Test?

How Do I Purchase the At Home Test Kit?

It's easy to get hold of a sleep apnea home test. Just order the test, and a dedicated Aeroflow Sleep Specialist will work with you and your doctor to issue a prescription. Then the sleep apnea home test is shipped to you direct for use that very night.

Pros
• Cost-effective, as a third to a fifth cheaper than staying at a sleep lab
• Covered by health insurance
• Fast delivery
• You only need to do the test for one night
• Conduct the test in the comfort of your own home

Cons

• You'll need a prescription from your doctor before receiving the test
• It won't completely rule out sleep apnea
• Further analysis may be required
• A sleep lab will detect over 80 different types of sleep disorders

Is The At Home Sleep Test Worth It? (Verdict)

The at home sleep apnea test won't solve things straightaway, but is a key first step in addressing the issue. This home sl

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP machines are a necessity for people suffering from sleep apnea. A CPAP machine increases the air pressure inside your throat so that it does not collapse on itself, and you sleep undisturbed. In our previous articles, we have reviewed many types of CPAP machines that are fit for your specific purpose.

But it is not enough to choose a suitable machine. You also need to ensure that it is maintained well. It warrants regular cleaning and if required replacing any part of the device.

Why is it necessary to clean your CPAP?

Before we enlist the steps, it is essential to point out exactly how your CPAP gets dirty while you sleep. No matter how clean your home is, it cannot be free from germs and bacteria. And if something finds its way into the machine, it will find a way inside you. 

This condition is also ideal for the growth of mold. Exposure to mold has many side effects like shortness of breath, development of asthma, and lower respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing in healthy adults. 

Can you really clean a CPAP using vinegar?

We are sure you must have considered to clean your CPAP machine after reading about the health risks. But you are afraid to mess up its mechanics. Well, you do not have to worry anymore. Our team has learned of and tested several ways to clean your device and are here to advise.

We recommend that you clean your CPAP regularly to ensure its maintenance. Yes, make it a daily habit, incorporate it in your schedule. But it is not necessary to dismantle the CPAP supplies. You can clean some parts with warm soapy water without having to separate the parts. Make time for thorough CPAP cleaning once every week, and you are good to go.

Everything you need

  • Warm and distilled water
  • Non-corrosive cleaning agent or mild soap (Dawn or ivory)
  • Towels or cloth for wiping
  • White vinegar
  • Space to dry off the cleaned parts

It is crucial to keep in mind that different components of CPAP have to be cleaned separately and in different ways.

How to Clean the CPAP Hose with Vinegar

The hose is perhaps the dirtiest part of the device because of its functions and structure.

To clean the CPAP hose with vinegar - Mix one part of vinegar with three parts of warm water to dilute it and submerge the tube into the mixture. Then thoroughly rinse the hose, so that the mixture reaches the tricky parts. Wash it again with clean water and hang it on a rack for drying.

The tube might be a little challenging to dry off, so lay off washing it more frequently.

Cleaning CPAP Mask and Headgear

The CPAP mask and headgear can be cleaned more frequently as it is in direct contact with your face when you sleep. First, disconnect the mask from the tube and the headgear. Soak it in the mixture of vinegar and water as mentioned before. Scrub it gently, then rinse to remove any trace of soap or vinegar and leave it for drying.

You can also clean the mask with unscented wipes. It will get rid of oil, grease and will fit on your face better.

Similarly, clean the headgear. The headgear might take longer to dry off so you can use a towel to soak off the extra water. Do not try to wash or dry it in a washing machine.

Cleaning the CPAP machine

The first thing to take note of when cleaning the machine is to switch off the power and remove the plug from the socket. Leave it for some time so that the energy is completely discharged.

You cannot clean the machine like other CPAP accessories. It cannot be soaked into the water or exposed to vinegar.

In order to clean the body of the device, take a cle

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Best Apps For Sleep Apnea Continued

Sleep Tracker 24/7 app

Sleep Tracker 24/7 is only available for iPhone users. Unlike other body vital tracking apps, Sleep Tracker always remains on and is a complete activity tracker. It means that the user does not have to switch it on before going to sleep. Instead, it works throughout the day. As a result, the app doubles as a sleep pattern app as well as an overall health tracker app. It has "Get Active" alerts, smart alarms, and power nap reminders.

  • Measures resting heart rate and correlates with sleep quality, tracks advance sleep cycle.
  • The most accurate sleep cycle alarm for iPhone.
  • Set the alarm for optimal power-naps.

"Easy installation, easy app to navigate, very useful data to have. The bad reviews were written by the technologically impaired with inadequate smartphones "

This app requires a stable net connection, which is usually possible through a router only. People with mobile networks should check this before use.

ResMed myAir app

ResMed myAir is available in two variants, ResMed myAir and ResMed Airmini. ResMed Airmini comes with a compatible device that acts as a separate recorder and sleep tracker that can be connected with the smartphone through Bluetooth technology. MyAir is also available for your computer as well. MyAir rates your sleep experience based on four contributing factors. MyAir also offers Personalised messages and therapeutic coaching to improve your sleep.

  • The app allows you to share your data with your therapist or relevant people.
  • The therapist can set up the settings on your device to give mode effective sleep experience.
  • Receive congratulatory messages when you pass sleep milestones.
  • Access an educational library with sleep-related literature.

Snore Lab app

SnoreLab is one of a kind app that is innovative and popular among its users.

SnoreLab records, measures, and analyses snoring patterns and aim to discover personalized ways to reduce it. The app is quite simple by setting it on record next to the bed.

The app is designed with a technology to provide a snore score to find out how loudly and exactly when one snores during sleep.

SnoreLab allows its users to log in to their accounts and access snoring remedies that support their needs.

  • Measures snoring intensity (Snore Score), compares snoring across nights
  • Assesses the effectiveness of any snoring remedies that you use
  • Measures the impact of factors such as drinking alcohol on snoring
  • Records sleep statistics
  • Can email sound files

Sleep++ app

Sleep ++ is available on for IOS users and is connected with the apple watch. It offers a report about how long one has slept, the intensity and quality of their sleep. It has an automatic mode that tracks when an individual is asleep. This way, one does have to set the app manually right before they go to sleep. It is a helpful feature for people who do not have a specific sleep cycle.

  • It provides a possible explanation for sleep graphs and other readings.
  • Reminders and sleeping tips for building a better schedule, set goals for sleep habits
  • Compares how often your sleep has been interrupted for loo breaks.
  • Bedtime consistency scores show how methodically one has been hitting the bed.

The app has inevitable glitches that prevent it from identifying when a person is awake. People have complained about inconsistent recording associated with specific models of Apple watch.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Sleep Apnea Apps

We can never overstate the value of a good night's sleep for the metabolism of the body. But the trouble is, what happens when you feel tired even 6 hours of sleep. With some attention to your sleep habits can hint towards the lying cause. Loud snoring, waking up in the middle of the night with a dry throat, choking sensation during sleep, restlessness, headaches in the morning, and drowsiness throughout the day are possible signs of sleep apnea.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a severe medical condition where breathing pauses occur during sleep. Loud snores usually accompany the condition. There exist three types of apnea that are dangerous to health: Obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, complex sleep apnea syndrome. Sleep apnea can occur in any sleep cycle, but it is most common and worst during the REM stage. The association between REM and apnea may be caused due to reduced muscle mass in the upper airway. People often ignore sleep apnea unless it manifests more severe problems. In its worst state, apnea can even hamper memory formation and lead to brain damage.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form of apnea, is usually diagnosed by monitoring heart rate, lung, and brain activity, breathing patterns, body movements during sleep, and oxygen levels in the blood during sleep. But, this method cannot be used by the mass to obtain a diagnosis. To solve this problem, ResApp Health Limited has developed a service that can enable your mobile phones to deliver a conclusive diagnosis.

Can you detect sleep apnea at home?

In order to get a clear insight into the symptoms, mobile phones can come handy. When people seek a diagnosis of sleep apnea, they are hooked on to a network of wires running across the body and are asked to sleep in a foreign room where a device tracks their breathing pattern, body movement, and other data. Not to be discouraging, but that seems to be a bit of a hassle. It might even disrupt an otherwise fit person's sleeping ability. Smartphones with sleep apnea apps can come to the rescue for such a problem. It performs a similar test and records the data within the comfort of your home as you sleep in your bed.

How does an apnea app work?

An apnea app can work perfectly well within a person's bedroom setting. You can keep your smartphone on the bedside table, hooked on to the charger. The app changes a smartphone into an active SONAR device and works along the way a bat navigates. It emits an inaudible signal that is reflected from the body. The smartphone records the signals reflected by the body. These signals can be interpreted into data of the abdominal breathing movement and other limb movements. When compared with a healthy sleeping signal, it can unravel whether one has sleep apnea or not.

How accurate are sleep apnea apps?

The technology and method used in the app were tested in a sleep lab where the smartphone was placed with the apnea app running on a nearby table. The recording from the app was compared with the OSA polysomnography test. The apnea app had an accuracy of about 98% when the test was performed on about 40 people.

Popular apnea apps

Even if a medical practitioner can only provide a clinical diagnosis, these apps can help people to track their sleep patterns, heart rate, and collect data. This data can then be analyzed by sleep therapists to give a final diagnosis. Also, the app can be used to gauge how effective your treatment for sleep apnea is.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

CPAP Pressure Settings continued

Self-adjusting CPAP machine

Another solution to deal with the problem of unsuitable pressure is opting for an APAP machine instead. APAP stands for auto positive air pressure and works on the same principle as the CPAP machines. One added advantage the APAP machines have over the CPAP machines is that they automatically adjust the pressure setting every time you breathe.

This way, you do not have to worry about your pressure is too high or too low as the APAP will adjust it. It is why an APAP machine is sometimes also called a self-adjusting CPAPS or Automatic Titrating Positive Airway Pressure device.

Benefits of using an APAP machine

APAP machines work on the same principle as CPAPs, but it has several added benefits to it.

APAP machines are better suited in such a scenario than CPAP machines because they can adjust the pressure according to your breathing patterns. CPAP machines maintain a continuous airflow, which might not be suitable for some times of apnea. It is recommended that they move on APAP machines as they come with a built-in algorithm that decides the amount of air the sleeper needs at any given amount of time.

Can work as CPAP as well- It is an added advantage that an APAP can also work as a CPAP machine if you set it a suitable airflow setting. But the same is not valid for a CPAP as it does not have the features of an APAP machine.

Troubled sleepers- APAPs are also better for people who tend to toss and turn during their sleep. This is because if you are a troubled sleeper and tend to move around from a prone position to a supine position, then the chances of having apnea events are increased because of gravity. APAP 's algorithm manages the airflow according to your need so that you have an uneventful sleep.

Comfort- Most patients receiving sleep apnea treatment find it a bit claustrophobic. The therapy requires them to wear a mask and sleep in a specific position throughout the night. Sometimes, this becomes too much to bear when the airflow settings are high. The chances of bearing such problems are decreased with the APAP machine as it automatically adjusts.

Accounts for weight changes: As mentioned earlier, your severity of sleep apnea and the specifics of the therapy depends on various factors like your lifestyle, weight, and age. It is recommended that a sleep apnea patient should see a doctor if their weight has increased or decreased by 10% of their original. Since the APAP machines come with an algorithm of their own, they can provide suitable airflow for the therapy automatically.

Alcoholic: If you are an alcoholic or consume alcohol before bedtime, you should choose APAP over CPAP machines. This is because alcohol makes apnea severe; it relaxes the throat muscles and slows down brain response speed. APAP machine can automatically adjust the airflow settings so that your air passage is not blocked.

Works best during flu- When you have the flu or cold, the infection causes inflammation of the throat tissues because of which the air passage is congested. If a person has sleep apnea as well as cold, then the air pressure for the therapy might need to be increased. It is good that the APAP machines would alter the pressure settings and allow you a comfortable night's sleep.

REM sleep: In the REM sleep stage, the breathing pattern is irregular, the body does not regulate its temperature, and blood pressure also spikes up. This is true for an average person but threatening for someone with sleep apnea. An APAP machine is most suitable in such a scenario because it can automatically adjust the airflow depending on your breathing pattern and sleep stage.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

Benefits of Self Adjusting CPAP Machines

How do CPAP machines help sleep apnea?Obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form of apnea, causes minor breathing pauses. It is likely that your breathing stops up to 30 times or more within an hour. However, it is nothing to fear as your CPAP, which stands for continuous positive airway pressure, maintains constant airflow, which stops the air passage from blocking. CPAP machines come with a pump that sends air into the tube and through it into the mask over your face. If you are unsure about type of CPAP devices, don't hesitate to check out the WellAwareSystem CPAP machine buying guide.What do I need to know about my CPAP air pressure?The CPAP machines come with special setting features that need adjusting. Your doctor must have adjusted the pressure settings specifically for you. The physician decides this setting through the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). This feature helps to maintain optimal pressure, which ranges from 6cm to 14cm of water for most patients. Most CPAP machines are capable of offering air pressure from 4 to 20cm of water. Whereas, some specialized machines can deliver up to 25 tp 30cm of water.To get a better idea of the intensity of airflow, you can imagine sucking water from a 10cm straw that is positioned just at the surface of the water. Another example of comparison can be human speech, which requires 7cm/H2O pressure. The average CPAP pressure is 10cm/ H2O.What Should My CPAP Pressure Be?Even though CPAP therapy can tend to be a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, you will ease into it gradually. However, the question what exactly should my cpap pressure be often comes up, especially when using a CPAP machine with a higher airflow setting can be uncomfortable. It is a sign that you need to see a sleep physician and get the pressure titrated up or down. Similarly, the pressure can also be too low, and you might find that your snoring has not lessened with the sleep apnea treatment.Signs of low CPAP pressureYour air pressure is low if you feel trouble in exhaling, whereas you can inhale without any problem. You may also gasp for air by opening your mouth while sleeping, your spouse or sleeping partner will be more aware of such signs. It happens because, at low CPAP pressure, one tends to feel a bit air-hungry and tries to gasp for air through the mouth rather than depending on the CPAP.Another way to discern that your pressure is low or not is the AHI index. If the index shows that you have five or more apnea events in an hour, then your CPAP machine is not working like its supposed to.Signs of high CPAP pressureIf your CPAP pressure is higher than your requirement, then you may find your ear leaking fluid. In general, you have to pay attention to how you feel during the night and in the day, and relay it to your physician or sleep therapist. They will be able to interpret the sign and tell you if your CPAP pressure is too high.What Happens if Your CPAP Pressure is Too High?The CPAP pressure setting is an important detail. It may seem slightly minor, but what exactly happens if your CPAP pressure is too high is somethign all users should be aware of. It ensures that your passage remains open throughout the night, and you do have trouble in inhaling and exhaling. Apart from the genuine discomfort caused by a too low or too high CPAP pressure, there are various side effects associated with it.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)

View Details

What is the best sleeping position for sleep apnea?

While sleeping positions vary widely, depending on the person's flexibility but they roughly fall into five categories. People have modified these positions according to their preferences. We discuss five of these positions and which one of them is best for obstructive sleep apnea.

Sleeping position #1: Fetal

In this sleep position, one is usually lying on the side, with their folded upwards and perhaps with hands upon the legs. This position has its benefits and is suitable for the spine because it remains in its original way. However, among less flexible people, it can cause neck and back aches. Women are often recommended this sleep position when pregnant.

The diaphragm and the lungs are compromised because of crooked back in this position. For better breathing experience, it is recommended to keep your back in a relaxed position. Hence this position is not ideal for someone with sleep apnea.

Sleeping position #2: Log

15% of the dozers like to catch their night's sleep this way. If you sleep on your side with your legs and arms stretched down that you sleep like a log. Well, this is perhaps as suitable as a sleeping position can be for sleep apnea. In this scenario, your back is relaxed, the lungs and diaphragms are not compromised. So this is an ideal way of sleeping.

Sleeping position #3: Freefall

The name paints a clear picture of this sleep orientation. With your head sideways, lying on your stomach or sideways and hands tucked under the pillow. It definitely is a cosy way to doze off while snuggling in the bed.

The sleeping style creates a forward movement for the tongue allowing it to prevent any blockage. However, if you are sleeping in this fashion, then you cannot fit a CPAP mask on your face. However, you can fit another pillow to lift your forehead, so the mask does not shift its place and spills the liquid. But we cannot imagine that to be comfortable enough for quality sleep. So no, this position is also not fit for people with sleep apnea.

Sleeping position #4: Soldier/ Stargazer

Stargazer is another very common way of falling asleep. You are a stargazer if you lie on your back with your limbs positioned comfortably.

With your head facing the ceiling, the gravity is pulling the soft muscles of the tongue downwards. This narrow the airway, decreasing the space through which air can pass through. Thus, promoting the chances of respiratory pauses and worsening obstructive sleep apnea.

This sleeping style is also known to worsen already present snoring tendencies and disrupting your quality sleep. So, the stargazer is also not an ideal way to sleep for someone with sleep apnea.

Sleeping position #5: Starfish

Starfish is another modification of the Soldier or Stargazer sleep position. Here, you sleep on your back, with your head facing upwards and arms stretched to their limit. A starfish sleeper often needs the whole bed for themselves at night.

Similarly, like a stargazer, starfish sleep position, the muscles of the tongue are pulled downwards by the force of gravity narrowing the airway. This is not a desirable condition for a person with sleep apnea. So, we cannot recommend this style of sleeping for you.

Support the show (https://wellawaresystems.com/)