For those of us with sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is a lifesaver. But if you've never used CPAP before, the idea of strapping on a mask and breathing machine every night can be daunting. In this blog post, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about using CPAP for the first time so that you can get a good night's sleep—without any stress!

How to Put on Your Mask

The first thing you need to do is put on your mask. If you had your mask fitted at a DME (Durable Medical Equipment) office, it should be relatively easy to put on. Just tighten the straps of your headgear and make sure it's snug—but not too tight! You'll be able to assess the fit once you turn on your CPAP.

Here is an easy ‘how to’ video by ResMed if you have further questions.

How to Use Your CPAP Machine

Once you have your mask on, it's time to turn on your machine and re-assess the fit of your mask. You may find that it takes you a little longer to fall asleep when you first start using CPAP, but this will improve with time. It can be helpful to go to bed an hour later than usual so that you're more likely to fall asleep quickly.

However, don’t be discouraged. Like many things, practice makes progress.

Common Challenges

There are a few challenges that are common when first starting out with CPAP. One is that you may need to adjust your mask through out the night to prevent pain or pressure sores on your face or ears. If your mouth falls open during your sleep, this can result in a dry mouth. Using a chin strap can help prevent this problem.

If you encounter any difficulties while using your machine, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or the team at Complete Care, Inc. We're here to help!

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CPAP treatment can take some getting used to, but don't worry—you'll get there! We've covered some of the basics of using CPAP for the first time. However, if you have any additional questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

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Complete Care is a premier Home Medical Equipment (HME) company serving the Northeast Alabama region. With a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for our valued customers, we specialize in providing a comprehensive range of medical equipment and supplies for individuals in need of in-home healthcare solutions.

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