7 Tips For Choosing CPAP Mask
Sleep apnea is a condition that affects up to 22 million people. Many people find effective treatment through continuous positive pressure (CPAP). This treatment may be recommended by your doctor depending on the severity and condition. What is the best CPAP machine? It can be hard to decide with so many options on the market. These are some tips to help you choose the right CPAP mask for you.
1. Verify Your Insurance
CPAP masks are usually covered by insurance companies under your durable medical equipment benefit. Your insurance company may require that certain CPAP Masks be used to get coverage. Be sure to check with your insurer before you purchase your mask. Find out what types of masks they cover and the requirements. Some types of masks may require you to give your doctor a prescription.
2. Select A Style
There are many masks, nasal pillows, and other devices that deliver oxygen. As you decide which option is best for you, you must try all the options. Some companies recommend that you try two styles. This way, if one doesn’t work for you, the second can be used. You decide what style works best for you.
3. Make Sure You Have A Good Fit
Your CPAP treatment will be effective if the CPAP no mask you choose fits correctly over your mouth or nose. Make sure you seal the masks tightly when trying them on. Also, make sure to check the straps for tightness. Straps that are too tight can make the mask uncomfortable. However, straps that are too loose or too tight will cause leakage.
4. You Should Make It Easy To Use
It is crucial to ensure that your mask is easy to put on and can be worn all night. An insufficiently large or small mask will make it difficult to maintain, while masks with many straps may be more cumbersome to properly put on. Make sure your mask is compatible with your CPAP machine. The more comfortable your mask is, the better it will adhere to your CPAP treatment.
5. You Must Ensure That It Is Easy To Clean
Your CPAP mask will be used all night. It must be easy to clean. Condensation can build up from both your breath and the humidified air from your CPAP machine. This allows bacteria and other pathogens to flourish. Your mask should be cleaned regularly to avoid contact with harmful germs.
6. Consider Renting First
Many insurance companies offer coverage for CPAP machines and mask rentals. This benefit allows you to rent a CPAP device and mask for a few months to ensure that you make the right decision. Renting allows you to return any equipment that is uncomfortable or too difficult. To find out if your plan covers this benefit, check with your insurance company.
7. It Is Possible To Change The Mask At Any Time
The mask used for CPAP treatment is not permanent. CPAP masks may need to be changed every year depending on what your insurance covers and the advice of your doctor. Even if this is not the case CPAP masks can’t last forever. Parts of your mask may need to be replaced at some point. This allows you to reevaluate the mask and decide if it’s a better fit.