How to Choose CPAP Equipment

There are dozens of CPAP machines available on the market. While they all work, they are not created equal. The features we recommend you insist on a CPAP machine are:

• Auto-titration - Auto-titrating machines monitor every breath and adjust pressure based on the conditions of your airway. You are always on the "right" pressure.

• Pressure relief - This feature drops the pressure after the user is done inhaling, so there is less resistance to exhalation.

• Heated humidification - This prevents dryness in the airway and helps with nasal congestion

• Monitoring software - You and your provider will have access to your usage and efficacy data.

Selecting the right CPAP mask.

There are hundreds of CPAP masks available. Comfort should be the determining factor for your first CPAP mask. Wear what feels right for you. One question frequently asked is, "Do I need to cover my mouth?" While everyone with sleep apnea will open up their mouth at night when they are gasping for breath, this does not mean you need to cover your mouth. The more important question is, do you breathe through your nose or mouth during the day? If you are a nose breather during the day, you can be a nose breather with CPAP.

If you are a mouth breather during the day, you will probably need to cover your mouth while wearing CPAP. Treating nasal congestion can change someone from a mouth breather to a nose breather. If you sleep with your mouth open while wearing CPAP, it will be very dry. If this is the case, you probably need a full face mask. Finally, it is important that you take care of your CPAP equipment by regularly cleaning the mask, headgear, tubing, and water chamber.