Top tips to help you conquer the world with CPAP

Some research suggests that the longer after diagnosis a patient waits before starting their CPAP treatment for sleep apnea, the more likely it is that they won’t start it at all. On the flip side, regular use within the first week or two after getting a machine means you are more likely to be using it after a year. And long-term treatment can deliver life-changing results, so read on to find out how to form the right habits, and why sticking with CPAP could be the best decision you’ve ever made.

Step one is done

You’ve done the hard yards, - you’ve made that vital first move by seeking treatment for your sleep apnea, you’ve gone through the tests and got the diagnosis, and now you’ve finally brought home your brand-new bundle of joy –: your very first CPAP machine. All those important steps now mean that your goal of restful sleep is well within reach, … so let’s set up some healthy habits to help keep your CPAP machine right by your (bed)side for many years to come.

Try it on for size

Finding the right machine and mask combination is vital for ensuring ongoing success with your sleep apnea treatment. And what better way to make sure you choose the right equipment than by consulting with an expert? Our ResMed sleep specialists coaches are on hand to help answer questions about mask selection, maintenance, portability, and more.; plus, Simply you visit a ResMed store and you can chat with our friendly and knowledgeable staff. and they can help you try on some masks for size.

March to the beat of your own drum

We all know someone who uses a CPAP machine. … We just don’t know that we know someone who uses a CPAP machine! With 30% of men and almost 20% of women suffering from sleep apnea¹, it’s certainly a very common condition, but it’s rarely talked about. Everyone’s CPAP story is different, so don’t be embarrassed, or put off by others’ experiences., and remember that starting your journey to better sleep could well be the best decision you’ve ever made. Whether you want to keep it to yourself or shout it from the rooftops, you can choose whom to talk to about starting treatment. You might even find a close friend or relative who has been through the whole experience and is willing to share their tips too.

Get in the groove

If using your CPAP overnight seems like a big task the very first night, why not start by wearing it for short periods during the day. ? Commit to wearing your mask for half an hour whilst watching a movie, pruning the hedges, or even dancing around the living room to your favorite John Farnham album. Then gradually build up to periods. Soon, you’ll hardly even notice it strapped to your face as the final beats of Johnny’s Farewell Tour play out on your headphones.

Under pressure

Many CPAP machines have a ramp feature that lets you start the night at a lower pressure, and then gradually build up to the right pressure as you fall asleep. This can help you adjust to wearing your mask on the first few nights and alleviate some of the discomforts as you get used to the nightly treatment. But remember, it’s okay to take a break for a few minutes here and there, just try to make sure you always put your mask back on before drifting off each night.

Keep it clean

Like anything that we use regularly, your CPAP equipment will need routine maintenance and cleaning. Daily cleaning of your mask, humidifier, and headgear is a great routine to get into right from the start. Washing the tubes once a week is also recommended to ensure that your equipment is free from bacteria and that your machine can operate at its optimum. For tips on how to clean your mask, headgear, tubing, and humidifier, check out our handy guide.

Conquer the world

Now you know what you can do to set yourself up for sleepy success, just imagine what you could achieve once your sleep has improved. A good night’s sleep is one of the most important factors in helping us perform at our very best. After all, what do you think our Aussie icons like Cathy Freeman, Russell Crowe, and Kylie Minogue all have in common? No, it’s not their love of Vegemite-flavoured lamingtons, but the fact that they all (probably) slept like babies on the night before their career-defining triumphs. Sleep studies show that getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep for adults aged 25-64, or 7-8 hours if you’re aged over 65, is needed for proper cognitive function², which you’ll need plenty of if you want to achieve your personal best in anything. Even if you’re not making box-office hits, breaking world records, or being the nation’s sweetheart, sleeping well can help your mind and your body perform at their optimum. ; The quality and quantity of sleep you get are closely linked to your physical and mental health, your immunity, weight control, weight loss, blood sugar levels, and heart health. So, now you know how to get on – and stay on – that path to sleep success, it’s time to conquer the world.