Without proper treatment, sleep apnea can wreak havoc on your physical and emotional well-being. From a decrease in your quality of sleep and the possibility of heart disease to stress and depression, it is easy to see the importance of treating the breathing lapses associated with sleep apnea. Considering CPAP, or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is the most effective treatment for this condition, you are most likely using it to treat your sleep apnea.

The use of this mask, hose, and machine to force air into your airways reduces the number of breathing pauses you have while asleep, but the device does require proper upkeep and maintenance. Using this guide, you can protect the function of your CPAP machine and ensure you receive a healthy night's sleep.

Mask

No matter if you are wearing a nasal, mouth, or full face mask, ensuring it is clean is essential to the effectiveness of your CPAP therapy. The majority of the mask material is silicone, which can break down quickly without proper maintenance. Therefore, cleaning is important for removing unhealthy bacteria and for prolonging the mask's lifespan.

To get started, disconnect the mask from the hose and machine. Remove the headgear and straps and place in a sink filled with liquid dish soap and distilled water. Allow to soak for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water.  Place on a flat surface to air dry.

Add a few tablespoons of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and wipe down the mask. Be sure to clean in between all folds of the silicone and in between any connections of the  mask. After cleaning, place the mask on a clean surface and allow it to air dry for a few hours.

Humidifier

Cleaning the humidifier chamber inside the CPAP machine will also be necessary periodically. Remove the chamber and soak in a solution containing warm water and liquid dish soap. Use a cloth to wash inside the chamber, removing any stubborn residue. Rinse with warm water and place back inside the CPAP machine.

Tubing

Without CPAP tubing, the machine will not be able to force air into your airways. Due to this importance, making sure the tubing is clean and in good condition is also essential.

After disconnecting the tubing, place in a sink filled with warm water and liquid dish soap. Allow to soak for a few minutes before rinsing. Be sure to rinse inside the tubing, as well. Hang the tubing on a safe surface to air dry.

Filters

Your CPAP machine also includes a filter, which traps dirt, dust, and bacteria, preventing it from entering your airway. Changing these filters is recommended at least every month. Fortunately, the filters are very inexpensive, so it should not be costly to maintain. Since each CPAP machine is designed differently, consult the owner's manual to determine the location of your filter.

With proper cleaning and maintenance, your CPAP therapy will be an effective form of treating your sleep apnea. Using these tips and the help of your doctor, you can enjoy a restful, healthy night's sleep. For more information on how to clean your health care equipment, talk to a medical supply provider in your area.