What you should know about CPAP Breathing Machine

Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep-related issues in the United States and in other parts of the world. If you suffer from it,your breathing while sleeping will be interrupted in short time intervals. Some tips you can use is to lose weight or try to find a more suitable sleeping position. If none of those things work, you will need a CPAP Breathing Machine. According to Jonathan Schwartz, M.D. from INTEGRIS Sleep Disorders Center of Oklahoma these machines do work and they are better than ever before.

Main parts of the machine

If you are planning to get this type of treatment, you will need to know the basics. These are the main elements of the machine. They are:

1. Machine itself:

It is basically a machine that sucks the oxygen from the room and sends it to your nose or mouth in one,maintained pressure.

2. Mask

It will cover the nose or mouth or both and it should be replaced once per year.

3. Headgear

It will keep the mask in place.Replace it once per 6 months.

4. Cushions:

They increase comfort and make a tight fit. They should be replaced 3-6 months.

5. Tube:

It transports the air from the machine to the mask. Replace it once per year due to mineral deposits inside.

6. Air filter:

It filters the air. Replace it once per 6 months and wash it daily.

7. Humidifier:

Adds humidity to the air you will breathe. Replace it once per year due to mineral deposits inside the humidifier.

Choose and purchase

According to Jonathan Schwartz, M.D., each patient has to purchase the best unit that suits him the most. Pay close attention to the sizeof the mask and make sure there are no leaks of any kind.

Make sure that your machine is properly cleaned on a daily and weekly basis and make sure it works properly. Replace it if needed.

Will insurance pay for the machine you need?

The short answer is yes and no. First of all, some insurances do cover the CPAP supplies meaning you can get the machine for free,from your insurance. To do that, you must go to a doctor who will prescribe the therapy and who will make sure your insurance provides one as soon as possible. By using this method you can get all kinds of units and you can make sure that there is no need to use your credit card or cash!

There are some things to remember. First of all, most insurances do cover the CPAP therapy and they will pay for the machine and accessories. But, you must use ti at least 4 hours per night for a specific period of time and the insurance may ask from you to provide additional information and data.

Some insurances will pay for the machine but not to the supply provider but you. What this means is that you have to purchase the machine by yourself and your money will be refunded by the insurance company.

The second option is to get your own machine. This is mandatory if your insurance doesn’t cover the therapy or you don’t have insurance at all. A good thing is the price of the machines which is more and more affordable each year.

Once again, you should have a consultation with your doctor and you should try to get as much information as you can. However, you will also have check for the best mask that suits you the most. Try as many masks as you can and decide which type you actually need. Once you are ready, you can purchase the machine and use it. All of them come with instructions and you basically have to connect a few pieces together and start using it. It is thatsimple.

The final word

A CPAP Breathing Machine is mandatory and more than just an important treatment for sleep apnea. If you suffer from this condition, yes you do need the machine in question and you should start using one as soon as possible. The benefits will be noticed after a couple of days or even after the first treatment.