Cpap Masks
About CPAP Masks in South Africa
They are without a doubt one of the most important parts of the CPAP machine, and without them, there would be no way to use the machine to the effect that it needs to be used. In fact, there would be no way to use it at all.
CPAP machines (otherwise known as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure devices) are the answer to sleep apnea. Designed to keep you breathing, the machine comes with both a CPAP mask and headgear, to ensure that the oxygen keeps flowing throughout the night.
Before we go any further, if you suspect that you have sleep apnea, the best way forward would be to book a consultation with your doctor and receive a proper diagnosis. From there you have a few options, the most common of which is to invest in a CPAP machine.
CPAP Mask Options
Because every patient not only has different needs but also different physical features, there is a variety of mask options available.
Your basic CPAP mask is made using a hard plastic, to ensure that it stays in place throughout the night, and a softer silicone seal which is used to provide comfort to the wearer. Of course, for those who are allergic to silicone, there is the option of vinyl and rubber. Other CPAP masks are made with soft plastic seals, inflatable cushions, and gel.
The CPAP mask can be designed to fit just the nose. But as sleep apnea sufferers generally breathe through their mouths, the mask can come with a chin strap which will prevent the mouth from falling open while sleeping.
If the idea of a chin strap is somewhat off putting for you, there is also the option of a full face mask, which will fit comfortably over both the nose and the mouth.
It is of the utmost importance that the mask fits correctly. If the mask is not a proper fit, it will come off in the night, and the entire point of a CPAP machine will be lost.
How to find the ideal CPAP Machine Mask?
It is vitally important, when selecting your CPAP Machine Mask, that you make comfort your top priority. If you are not comfortable with your mask, you will not sleep comfortably. Not only should you make sure that the inside of the mask is soft on your skin, but you also should prioritise finding the right size.
Generally, you will have the mask professionally fit, so be sure to be honest about your experience. If it’s uncomfortable, try a different shape or size.
You should also not shy away from using accessories. If the accessories are going to make your experience more comfortable, then go for it. That is what they are there for after all. Just like the mask, the accessories should also fit correctly to ensure that they stay in place. The chinstrap is the most commonly used accessory and it works perfectly for those who tend to breathe through their mouths.
Finally, if you run into problems, make sure that you take care of them as quickly as you can. Many people might initially think that having problems with their CPAP mask simply means that they should give up, but most problems are easily resolved with a few tweaks.
Starting off on the right foot with a CPAP machine mask can turn your life and your health around. It is important that you make sure you know how to use it correctly so that you can reap the benefits.
At FC Medical, our vision is to improve your quality of life, whether that be through offering you the best CPAP Machine Prices in South Africa or being your new medical oxygen suppliers in South Africa. Fountain Circle Medical Suppliers is truly a one-stop-shop stocking some of the most well-known brands of portable oxygen concentrators and CPAP Machines.
