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Category Archives: Uncategorized

The Connection between Sleep Apnea and Juvenile Arthritis

CPAP-Blog-Sleep-Apnea-and-Juvenile

May is National Arthritis Month and CPAP Central wanted to bring awareness to Juvenile Arthritis (JA) and how it can impact young lives.

While there is no direct correlation between having sleep apnea and Juvenile Arthritis, it is important to note that there is also no conclusive cause and no cure for JA, only treatment to manage symptoms. If your child has JA and sleep apnea, please talk to your doctor right away. These two conditions can be downright dangerous when combined. We have CPAP machines and CPAP masks to accommodate younger patients.

What is JA? How common is it? Here are some things you probably didn’t know about Juvenile Arthritis.

  • The CDC estimates that 294,000 U.S. children under age 18 (or 1 in 250 children) have been diagnosed with arthritis or other rheumatic conditions.
  • Childhood arthritis-related diagnoses range from a low of 500 children in Wyoming to a high of 38,000 children in California.
  • Children diagnosed with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions account for approximately 827,000 doctor visits each year, including an average of 83,000 emergency department room visits.
  • (JA) is an umbrella term used to describe the many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions that can develop in children ages 16 (or 18) and younger.

Although there is no known cause for the disease and no known cure, there are many treatments available.  Most treatment plans involve a combination of medication, physical activity, eye care and healthy eating. Medications used to treat JA can be divided into two groups:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, corticosteroids and analgesics that help relieve pain and inflammation
  • Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs that can alter the course of the disease, put it into remission and prevent joint damage.

If a person, young or older, in your life has any type of arthritis and uses a CPAP machine or BiPAP, CPAP Central can help you find solutions to make the sleep apnea system more comfortable and easier to use.

The Connection between Sleep Apnea and Rheumatoid Arthritis

CPAP-Blog-Sleep-Apnea-and-Rheumatoid

May is National Arthritis Month, and because of that, CPAP Central would like to direct your attention to the connection between arthritis and sleep apnea. Recent studies have shown that people with sleep apnea have double the chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis compared to those who do not snore.

Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses or stops in breathing while a person is sleeping.  Age, obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption all increase the chances for sleep apnea.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of joints and the surrounding tissues. It is most common in women and develops mostly as people reach middle age. Hormone changes, infections, and some genetic factors all play a role in developing the disease.

Researchers compared 1,411 sleep apnea patients against 7,000 healthy adults for over five years. The subjects were continuously monitored for immune system-related conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Findings showed that the apnea-affected group had a 91 percent higher chance of developing arthritis conditions.

Why would snoring and sleep apnea increase the risk for rheumatoid arthritis? Studies show that chronic sleep apnea leads to inflammation in blood vessels present in the body and this acts as a catalyst for the development of arthritis.

Untreated rheumatoid arthritis and sleep apnea can be debilitating individually, but knowing that sleep apnea may put you at higher risk for RA makes treatment even more important.  So what can you do to avoid getting RA or other arthritis related conditions? If you snore or have been told you snore, get tested for sleep apnea.  Your family doctor can help you find a sleep lab.

 

If you are diagnosed, CPAP Central can help. We specialize in all things CPAP and BiPAP, and can make sure you have the right CPAP machine and CPAP mask for you, thus lowering your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Who Was That Masked Man? Finding the Right CPAP Mask

CPAP-Central-Blog-Behold-the-masked-man-Finding-the-CPAP-mask-that-works-for-you

Those who are old enough to remember the old Lone Ranger shows and movies get that reference. If you’re old enough to remember that, you are probably part of the sleep apnea and CPAP generation.

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, welcome to the Masked Man (or Masked Woman) Club.

 

Let’s be honest, these masks may not be the most attractive things to see when your partner rolls over in bed and they will take some getting used to, but if you have been living with untreated sleep apnea, these little machines and masks are a life boat in the sea of bad sleep. So which type of mask is right for you?

 

CPAPCentral carries a carries a variety of the best CPAP masks on the market. You can choose from fullface CPAP masks, nasal CPAP masks, nasal pillow CPAP masks, total face CPAP masks or hybrid CPAP masks.

 

Start by doing some research in our online catalog and looking at some different models. This will get you more familiar with what is out there. Make some notes about the ones you like more and why.

 

Most insurance companies will cover a new mask every six months, so you can use this to test drive the different models of CPAP masks. If something wasn’t totally comfortable, switch to a different type when it’s time to change out your model.

 

Some people start off thinking they would like a nasal pillow CPAP mask because it covers less of their face, but then discover they breathe better with a full-faced mask. Other people are able to find a happy medium between the two in the hybrid CPAP mask. You won’t know completely until you try.

 

If you’re still unsure what mask you want to purchase, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at

CPAPCentral. We’re more than happy to help point you in the right direction.

We hope to hear from you soon and Hi-ho Silver….

Battling springtime allergies when you have sleep apnea

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Achoo! It’s spring, which means the onset of seasonal allergies. Many people are pretty miserable during spring allergy time anyway, but if you’re a CPAP user on top of that, you could be looking at a trifecta of stuffy noses, sleepless nights, and difficult sleep apnea therapy.

Luckily, there are some things to combat seasonal allergies. CPAPCentral is here to help you get through springtime allergies and still remain compliant in your CPAP therapy:

 

1) Become a neat-freak: This means keeping your CPAP supplies as clean as possible. For hints and tips on this, see the previous two blogs

2) Switch to a full-faced CPAP mask: Many people prefer the nasal CPAP pillows because it gives them a clear line of sight and puts less pressure on their face, but a full-face CPAP mask works better if your nose is clogged.

3) Use hypoallergenic filters: These can work wonders in helping you combat the allergens in the air.

4) Wash your pillowcases: Wash or change your pillowcases more often than you usually do throughout the year. Consider purchasing a hypoallergenic pillowcase.

5) Close the windows and doors: I know it’s really unfair this time of year, since it’s so nice and warm, but leaving the windows and doors open is how the pollen gets in.

6) Use decongestants: Make sure you check with your doctor before you try this, but using overthe- counter decongestants can make a big difference in how well you sleep.

7) Don’t smoke: If you’re having to use a CPAP machine already, this can make things worse.

Combine it with seasonal allergies, and you’re in for a bad time.

8) Leave your plants outside: If you have a lot of plants in the house, they can harbor mildew and make seasonal allergies worse. Put them outside while you sleep.

These are just a few things you can do to make it through allergy season. CPAP Central is here for you to make sure your sleep apnea therapy goes well. Visit our online catalog for a full list of all the supplies we carry.

4 products to help you keep your CPAP supplies clean

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In last week’s blog, CPAPCentral talked about some of the things you should be doing on a regular basis to keep your CPAP machine clean. For today’s blog, we’re going to talk about some other handy products for keeping your CPAP machine spick and span!

 

CPAP mask wipes

We mentioned these in last week’s blog, but they really are handy for getting residual saliva off your

CPAP mask. These come in a lemony-fresh scent, but if the smell bothers you, there are also unscented ones.

 

CPAP tube cleaning system

If you’ve already tried to clean out your CPAP tubes, you know how difficult it can be! Luckily, there’s the Tube Cleaning System from AG Industries. It includes two caps that allow you to block off the ends of the CPAP tube in order to swish a cleaning solution around in them. When you’re done, use one of two included hanging options in order to let your CPAP tubes dry.

 

Tube Cleaning Wand with Cleaning Pads

Alternatively, if you don’t like the above method to clean out your CPAP machine, there’s also the Tube

Cleaning Wand with Cleaning Pads by AG Industries. This allows you to manually wipe out the inside of your CPAP tubes with the set of wipes that come inside the package.

 

SoClean® 2 CPAP Cleaner and Sanitizer

If you’re one of those people who just doesn’t have the time to deep-clean your CPAP machine or CPAP accessories, this product is for you! Connect your CPAP equipment up to this machine, and it automatically cleans the CPAP mask, CPAP tube and CPAP humidifier for you. It’s kind of like a washing machine or dishwasher for your CPAP machine.

CPAPCentral knows the importance of keeping your equipment clean. If you need to re-stock any of your

CPAP supplies, don’t forget to visit our online catalog.

Time to spring clean your CPAP machine!

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Break out the shop vac, borrow your friend’s carpet shampooer and climb the ladder to get to those outside windows… it’s time to spring clean!

Before you get too far on your projects, don’t forget one crucial element that really needs your

attention—your CPAP machine! Indeed, you should have been giving it a regular clean all along. If you haven’t yet, here are some things you should be doing on an ongoing basis to keep your CPAP machine running in tip-top shape:

 

Once a day CPAP cleaning

Empty the CPAP humidifier’s water chamber to keep bacteria from building up and drain the excess water from the tubing. It’s really easy for germs to build up on the surface of a CPAP machine, so make sure you wipe it down once a day. Finally, use these handy CPAP mask wipes from CPAPCentral to give the inside of your CPAP mask a good clean.

 

Once a week CPAP cleaning

Give your CPAP mask a good soak in warm, soapy water about once a week. Let it dry thoroughly before using again. We find that using mild soaps (such as Dove or Ivory) work the best.

 

Once a month CPAP cleaning

CPAPCentral recommends that when it comes to your CPAP machine, you want to give your entire machine a wipe-down with warm water once a month. That includes picking it up and getting the bottom where it’s been sitting on the nightstand, as well as the inside of the humidifier. Finally, make sure you rinse out the filter.

 

6 month CPAP cleaning

For functional and sanitary reasons, CPAPCentral recommends that you replace your CPAP mask every six months and your CPAP tubes every three months. Many insurance plans will cover this regular replacement, so make sure you check your insurance and take advantage of this!

We’re here to answer any questions you may have about your CPAP supplies. If you do need to resupply, visit our online store.

 

Overcoming CPAP side effects

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There’s no debating the immense health benefits that come from using a CPAP machine. But just like with any other medical treatment, there can be some side effects. Luckily, these can be easily treated. Some of these include:

1)      Dry nose or mouth

This can happen if you’re just getting used to the sensation of forced air. A nasal spray can help relieve this particular symptom. A heated CPAP humidifier or heated CPAP tubing can also help.

2)      Irritated skin

This happens when a patient experiences uncomfortable air leaks and tightens the CPAP mask. However, too much tightening can damage the skin. If this happens, see your respiratory therapist about being fitted for a new CPAP mask. Or, try using a mask liner to protect your skin and increase comfort.

3)      Dizziness upon waking

Some users have experienced mild dizziness after a night of using a CPAP machine. This happens when the CPAP machine causes congestion and the wearer is already suffering from allergies. The combination can cause some unbalance in the inner ear. Use of a nasal decongestant or allergy medication can mitigate this particular problem.

4)      Eating air

This is known as aerophagia—it’s where you swallow the air unintentionally, and it goes into the stomach instead of the trachea. Usually, the symptoms to this are minor and include burping or flatulence. However, in a more severe form, it can lead to heartburn and other discomfort. If this is the case, you can treat it by elevating your head more during sleep or decreasing the CPAP machine’s pressure. Heartburn medication can also aid in overcoming this side effect.

Remember, even if you do encounter some of these issues, you shouldn’t stop your CPAP treatment. Consult your doctor if they become especially tricky, or try some of the products we mentioned above. They can really help! CPAPCentral.com carries all the accessories you need to give you the best sleep apnea therapy experience possible.

New to CPAP? Here’s how to get used to it

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Introducing something new to your sleep routine is never easy, but for beginning CPAP users, this can be especially challenging. Below are some tips on how to get used to the CPAP machine:

1)      Wear the CPAP mask while you are awake

Wait until you are at the winding-down phase of your evening—whether this is in front of the TV, reading a book, checking your email, etc. Wear the CPAP mask while you’re performing your end-of-the-day routine. Then, connect it to the CPAP tube and then to the CPAP machine. Gradually introduce the use of pressure. Try this every night for the first week or two that you have the CPAP machine.

2)        Practice good sleeping habits

While a CPAP machine will help you sleep better, it’s not the only thing you should be introducing into your routine. Try to go to bed at the same time every night, and avoid looking at lighted screens (such as cell phones or computers) 30 minutes before going to sleep. Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine close to bedtime. If your body isn’t already being properly prepped for sleeping, it will make going to bed with a CPAP mask on that much more difficult. Some CPAP users have stated that drinking chamomile tea just before going to bed helped them fall asleep, even with the CPAP mask on.

3)       Use the ramp features

One of the biggest obstacles new CPAP users have reported is trying to get used to forced air. If this is a problem for you, look into a CPAP machine with ramp features—this feature will introduce light air pressure at first, and then automatically introduce a heavier air flow as the night progresses.

It may be difficult at first, but if you keep trying to get used to your sleep apnea therapy, it will be worth it. Don’t forget to check out CPAPCentral’s online catalog. We have everything you need to make your CPAP experience great!

CPAP Care Under Any Roof

CPAPCentral-Blog-Traveling-with-CPAP-MachineFrom vaulted ceilings to starry skies, traveling can place you under a number of new roofs at night. No matter where you lay your head while away from home, follow these tips for a solid sleep with your CPAP:

Hotel

  • If the phone, lamp, and clock on the nightstand leaves little room for your CPAP, pull out the drawer as a makeshift shelf. If nightstand space isn’t available, contact the front desk and ask to borrow a portable stand used for room service catering.
  • Pack a power strip or an extension cord to accommodate for rooms with minimal power outlets.
  • Before you leave for the day, pack up your CPAP and its accessories and store them in a drawer or on a closet shelf to protect from housekeeping’s cleaning sprays or accidental breaks.

RV or Camper

  • Make use of your RV’s 12V outlet by connecting a small, 300W inverter into it and attaching it to your CPAP unit. Run an extension cord from your machine to the inverter to create a custom reach no matter where you’re sleeping.
  • To prevent draining your vehicle’s battery, make sure all lights, appliances, and amenities are shut off while your CPAP runs overnight. Limit the use of your humidifier for the same reason.
  • Recharge the battery during the day by firing up the RV’s generator or setting up portable solar panels.

Train

  • Before your trip, secure a letter of medical necessity from your doctor and contact your train company to discuss regulations and accommodations.
  • Pack an extension cord to help you reach an outlet if one isn’t directly in your aisle or you’re camped out on the top bunk of a private room.
  • To prevent a swaying or shaky train from bumping your cord out a power socket, tape the cord down with a piece or two of duct tape.
  • Refrain from using your humidifier, if possible. The back and forth motion of the cab may causing sloshing and liquid leaks.

Camping

  • Look into the possibility of buying a CPAP unit designed for travel and portability fits easily into a tightly-packed backpack. These models are exceptionally small and operate with battery packs instead of plugins.
  • Save space and keep bags light by packing lithium-based batteries. Weighing in at 2-4 pounds, they store enough power to last you up to three nights.
  • Instead of carrying multiple battery replacements, pack a lightweight portable solar panel to recharge.
  • To maximize battery life, skip the humidifier for a night when a fresh battery or power source isn’t readily available in the morning.

CPAP Central features a number of travel CPAP machines to ensure a well-rested night wherever your adventure leads.

 

The Z1 and Transcend Travel CPAP Machines: A Comparison

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The weather is starting to warm up, the snow is starting to thaw, and before you know it, spring break will be here! It’s finally time to set aside the winter blues and go someplace new and exotic. You shouldn’t have to lug your entire CPAP machine set-up with you as you travel, but you also shouldn’t be deprived of a night of sleep apnea therapy. The solution? Purchase a travel CPAP machine.

Last month, we talked a little bit about the Z1 Travel CPAP Machine and how it’s great for those spring break trips. This month, we’re going to compare it side-by-side with another travel CPAP machine: the Transcend EZEX miniCPAP™ Machine:

Z1™ Travel CPAP Machine

Transcend EZEX miniCPAP™ Machine

10 ounces 15 ounces
6.5 in x 3.45 in x 2.25 in 6.1 in x 3.5 in x 2.8 in
Pressure range: 4 to 20 cm H2O Pressure range: 4 to 20 cm H20
Available Modes: Standby, CPAP Available Modes: Standby, CPAP, Drying
Ramp time: 0 to 45 min, 5 min increments Ramp time: 0 to 45 min, 5 min increments
Comes with 4-foot tube Comes with 6-foot tube
Uses humidification moisture exchange Optional heated humidifier available
Quiet Operation 26 dBA Quiet Operation 26.6 dBA
LCD Display Screen with user buttons User buttons
Z-Breathe Pressure relief- Off, 1, 2, 3 EZEX pressure relief- Off, 1, 2, 3
Leak Compensation Leak detection with compensation
Optional battery: Integrated PowerShell Optional battery: Overnight plug-in battery
Auto Altitude Adjustment Auto Altitude Adjustment
On-Board therapy tracking with optional Micro SD cards slot On-board therapy tracking
Tube adapter included Universal Hose adapter included
Filter end cap with polyester filter included Filter frame with reusable foam filter included
Micro USB Cord included 3-Foot USB 2.0 Type A Male to Mini B Male Cable
Compatible with European voltage Compatible with European voltage (comes with adapters)
Compatible with all CPAP masks Compatible with all CPAP masks
Carrying pouch, optional travel bag available Outside dimensions 10 in x  11 in x 4 in Bag Dimensions – Outside 10 in x 9.25 in x 4.5 in
3-Year Warranty 3-Year Warranty

 

The Z1 by Human Design Medical and the Transcend EZEX miniCPAP™ Machine by Somnetics are both great models—which one you choose depends on which one will best fit your needs! CPAPCentral carries them both in stock, along with a number of travel CPAP machine accessories.