Frequestly Asked Questions

Sleep Disordered Breathing

Is there a medication I can take to treat obstructive sleep apnea?
How do I know that I suffer from sleep disordered breathing?
I have a tendency to snore. Does that mean I have OSA?

CPAP: Care and Maintenance

What can I use to clean my mask?
Can I wash my entire mask in water?
How often should I clean my mask?

Humidity

I have a CPAP with a humidifier, but there are times when I find I'm not getting adequate humidity. What can I do?
How do I know when I should use a humidifier with my CPAP machine?
Is it possible to catch an infection from a humidifier?
Can I use my CPAP without the humidifier?
I was instructed by my healthcare provider to use "distilled" water in my humidifier chamber. Are filtered water, well water and/or bottled water the same?
Where can I buy distilled water?
Why do I develop headaches after I use my CPAP machine?

Integrated Options/Alternative Treatments

If I get a dental appliance or use a chinstrap to keep my mouth closed to prevent me from snoring, will this cure my sleep apnea?
Is surgery an option for those who don't like the idea of CPAP?

Is there a medication I can take to treat obstructive sleep apnea?

No. Sleeping pills, sedatives and alcohol make it worse. Daytime sleepiness can be reduced with stimulants but this will not help with OSA.

How do I know that I suffer from an obstructive sleep disorder?

Excessive daytime drowsiness and nighttime snoring, especially if spells of silence or breath-holding are reported with the snoring, are the usual combination of symptoms. The Epworth questionnaire may help you determine whether your drowsiness is excessive or normal.

I have a tendency to snore. Does that mean I have OSA?

No. Most snorers do not have OSA. Those who snore very severely or who have been told they stop breathing for 10 seconds or so, should be more concerned.

What can I use to clean my mask?

Dishwashing detergent, shampoo, or soap are suitable solutions for cleaning your mask. DO NOT use bleach, alcohol, or any strong household cleaners. Use warm soapy water, then rinse thoroughly in fresh water and air dry.

Hand wash the headgear using mild household detergent.

Can I wash my entire mask in water?

Generally speaking, most silicone parts, mask shell, and headgear may be placed into water. The foam cushion from Fisher & Paykel masks, such as the Aclaim, FlexiFit series (HC406, HC405, HC407, HC432) should NOT be submerged into water. Wipe the foam cushion clean with a damp cloth or sponge and leave to dry.

How often should I clean my mask?

For optimal performance, clean your mask once a week. It is also a good idea to make a habit of wiping down the silicone seal on your mask with a wet washcloth every day. This helps to get rid of oils that may be transferred from your skin onto your mask. The accumulation of oil on the silicone prevents your mask from sealing properly.

How do I know when I should use a humidifier with my CPAP machine?

You may need to use a humidifier if you experience any of the following symptoms which typically were not exhibited prior to CPAP use: upper airway dryness, congestion, sore throat, nosebleeds, and headaches.

Is it possible to catch an infection from a humidifier?

No, because the CPAP heated humidification process produces molecular water vapor, which cannot transport bacteria or other microorganisms.

Can I use my CPAP without the humidifier?

Absolutely. If you find that your mask and/or tubing is collecting too much moisture even at the lowest humidity setting, you do not have to use your humidifier. In fact, your humidification needs will change occasionally based on the temperature in your bedroom (this is affected by the type of weather you are experiencing in your region).

I have a CPAP with a humidifier, but there are times when I find I'm not getting adequate humidity. What can I do?

Most heated humidifiers are adjustable which allows you to increase or decrease the humidity output at varying degrees. Please refer to your humidifier manual or contact CanSleep for assistance.

I was instructed by my healthcare provider to use "distilled" water in my humidifier chamber. Are filtered water, well water and/or bottled water the same?

NO they are not the same. Filtered water, well water and/or bottled water still contain minerals that may damage the bottom plate of your water chamber if used on a regular basis.

Where can I buy distilled water?

Distilled water can be purchased in most grocery stores and pharmacies.

Why do I develop headaches after I use my CPAP machine?

It may be that you do not have adequate humidity. In this case, you should increase your humidity. Please refer to your heated humidifier manual or contact your healthcare provider for assistance.

If I get a dental appliance or use a chinstrap to keep my mouth closed to prevent me from snoring, will this cure my sleep apnea?

Not necessarily. Only a sleep specialist can determine the diagnosis of sleep apnea, and when it has been successfully treated.

Is surgery an option for those who don't like the idea of CPAP?

For some, yes, but not for all. Whether surgery would work for you must be discussed with a sleep specialist after he/she has explored your medical history and examined your upper airway. CPAP treatment in general is more effective than surgery so usually it is the first choice in OSA treatment.