Tips for Using a CPAP Machine

One of the most common medical treatments for sleep apnea is to use a CPAP 
machine. This type of machine helps you breathe during sleep by putting a mask over 
your nose and breathing for you when you have shallow breaths or pauses in your 
breathing. For people with severe sleep apnea, it can actually save your life. Here are 
some tips for using the CPAP machine.

Dont Be Afraid to Adjust it

You dont need to make the CPAP machine fit as soon as it arrives. While you will also 
want it custom-made to fit you, it might still need some adjustments. This is not 
uncommon, and the more you adjust it, the better it will fit. When it fits you right, you will 
notice that you are much more comfortable while wearing it and can sleep without it 
bothering you too much.

Try to Use it During the Day

One of the biggest complaints people have about CPAP machines is that they are 
uncomfortable and hard to sleep with. If you are losing sleep because you just cant get 
used to it at night, try wearing it occasionally during the day. Just wear it when you are 
resting, like watching TV, for a few hours a day. Over time, it becomes more 
comfortable and you wont mind it quite as much when you are trying to sleep with it.

Have it Custom Fitted

If you still dont like how it feels at night, try getting the mask part of the CPAP machine 
custom-made. This will be the perfect size and shape for your face. Talk to your doctor 
if you cant get used to your mask and need it to be custom-made. 

Know if You Are Allergic

The last tip for using your CPAP machine is to understand why you might be getting ill 
when using it. This is not normal, especially if you have been using it for a while. It is 
possible that you are actually allergic to certain materials of the breathing machine. If 
you show signs of allergies, like coughing and sneezing, upon waking, try going a few 
days without using it. Have the symptoms gone away? If so, it might be that you are 
allergic to the mask part of the machine. Some older CPAP machines use latex, which 
many people are allergic to.

Always let your doctor know if the mask is just not working for you.

