Starting CPAP therapy

CPAP Trial

With your EdenSleep CPAP trial, you’ll be able to start therapy at your own pace.

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CPAP therapy is a lot easier than it looks

So how does CPAP work exactly? It involves a device delivering a gentle flow of air via a mask into your airways. The positive air pressure created inside your airways stops them from collapsing, so you can breathe freely and sleep without waking up.

Give yourself as much time as you need to get comfortable and used to using it. The key is to use it every night and to make it a habit.

Setting up your device

1. Place your device on a stable level surface.

 

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2. Plug one end of the power cord into the rear of your device and the other end into the power outlet.

 

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3. Connect the air tubing to the air outlet at the rear of your device.

 

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4. Remove the water tub and fill it with water up to the maximum level mark.

 

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5. Insert the filled water tub back into the side of the device.

 

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6. Connect the free end of the air tubing onto the assembled mask.

 

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Fitting your mask

Your mask is perhaps the most crucial part of your CPAP therapy system. We have included some of our masks for you to try out.

Full face masks

If you breathe with your mouth open during sleep, this is the mask for you. It covers the nose and mouth areas.

Fitting steps

  1. Unclip the magnets from their clips.
  2. With your mask held against your face, pull the headgear over your head.
  3. Reconnect the magnets to their corresponding clips on the frame.
  4. Adjust the tabs on the upper headgear.
  5. Adjust the tabs on the lower headgear.
  6. With the device switched off, connect the device tubing to the mask elbow.
  7. Connect the elbow to the mask.

Nasal masks

If you breathe through your nose and prefer a mask that covers your nose, this is a great option.

Fitting steps

  1. Unclip the magnets from their clips.
  2. With your mask held over your nose, slide the headgear over your head.
  3. Reconnect the magnets to their corresponding clips on the frame.
  4. Adjust the tabs on the upper headgear.
  5. Adjust the tabs on the lower headgear.
  6. With the device switched off, connect the device tubing to the mask elbow.
  7. Connect the elbow to the mask.

Nasal pillows

If you're looking for a lightweight mask that makes minimal facial contact, this is the ideal choice.

Fitting steps

  1. Ensure the labelled left and right sides of the nasal pillows are aligned correctly with your left and right nostrils.
  2. Hold the nasal pillows against your nostrils, and pull the headgear over your head.
  3. Spread the headgear split-strap open, so that the lower part sits at the back of your head and the top part rests on your crown.
  4. Reseat the nasal pillows by briefly pulling the mask away from your nose and letting them fall back into place.
  5. With the device switched off, connect the device tubing to the mask tube.

5 ways to start therapy comfortably

Improving your comfort is one way to feel better about therapy. Here are few things that will prepare you for your first night.

  1. Practise wearing your mask and starting your device before you go to bed.
  2. Ease into therapy by starting at low pressure or using the device ramp function. (This should be set on automatically on your trial device).
  3. Place the device on a flat surface that is lower than your bed. This will move the new and unfamiliar sound of the CPAP device below your hearing level.
  4. Make small strap adjustments to your mask until it's fitting correctly.
  5. Be as relaxed as you can and sleep as you usually would.

For more tips on falling asleep with CPAP, read our blog article - 7 tips to falling asleep on CPAP

Book in your follow-up appointment

If you ordered your CPAP trial through EdenSleep.com.au, you will receive free sleep coaching. It's a good idea to schedule your follow-up phone call with your EdenSleep Coach. During the call we'll discuss your therapy progress and provide answers to any questions you may have. If you choose to continue with CPAP therapy, you'll also be able to chat about what therapy equipment is best suited for you and your lifestyle.

Other Tips

CPAP therapy can take a little time getting used to, so we want to share a few extra tips to give you a head start.

Before you start
Adjusting your mask
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Place your device where you can see it, so you’ll remember to use it every night.

Get used to putting on your mask and how it feels by practising when you’re upright and while you’re lying down.

Practice using your device with your eyes opened and closed, breathing as you normally would.

Set up your device and fill the humidifier well before bedtime, so it’s ready and waiting for you.

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Learn the correct fitting procedure outlined in your mask user guide to ensure a secure seal.

Familiarise yourself with your mask features so when you need to make adjustments at night in the dark, you’ll know what to do.

Use a mirror or ask someone to check if the masks cushion or pillows are correctly positioned.

Adjust your headgear straps evenly. If one side is a lot tighter than the other, the cushion could twist and crease, causing mask leak.

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Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for any advice or guidance with starting therapy.

Talk to your partner, family or close friends about your CPAP therapy to help make therapy less intimidating for you both.

Check out online resources where you can learn more and connect with other CPAP users.

Remember to stay positive. Regular therapy will improve your sleep, your relationships and quality of life.

Top 10 frequently asked questions

1. How long will it take me to get used to CPAP?

You may sleep well on therapy right from the start – some people do. Others may take a bit longer, but if you make it a habit, it will get easier.

2. Do I need to be on CPAP every night?

Some benefits of CPAP therapy will depend on regular use. Other things like reduced snoring are only treated if you’re on therapy.

3. What should I do if I have trouble falling asleep on CPAP?

Try all the tips we’ve provided above on how to start therapy comfortably. The best advice is to practice using therapy as much as you can during the day.

4. What can I do to stop skin irritation or redness?

Having the mask too tight on your face often causes marks on your skin. Try to wear the mask with just enough tension for a stable seal.

5. How do I prevent nasal congestion or dryness?

If your nose is congested, blocked or dry, try adjusting your humidifier. Some people switch to a spare full face mask when they have a cold or allergies.

6. Can I breathe with my mouth?

If you breathe with your mouth open, you'll need to use a full face mask. If you wear a nasal or nasal pillows mask and open your mouth, air will escape.

7. How do I stop my mask from leaking air?

A poor mask seal will cause a mask leak. One quick fix to try is to reseat your mask by briefly pulling it off your face and then letting it fall back into place.

8. Why is there a gurgling sound and water inside my mask?

Heated air from the humidifier can cause condensation inside your mask. Try adjusting the humidifier settings or raising the temperature in your bedroom.

9. What's the best way to clean my mask?

You should clean your mask daily. For specific instructions, refer to your mask’s user guide.

10. Can I travel with my CPAP equipment?

Most ResMed branded CPAP devices and masks are portable and designed to be travel-friendly. They can be used overseas and even on an aeroplane.