Getting the Most From Your CPAP - The Importance of Resupply
For the over 22 million people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea in the United States, using a CPAP machine provides a gateway to a better night’s sleep while reducing the risk of the chronic comorbidities associated with the disease. Adapting to CPAP use may seem daunting at first, but reaping the health benefits of this treatment depends on continual care and resupply of the equipment.
The Serious Health Implications of Sleep Apnea
More than a snoring disorder, obstructive sleep apnea is linked to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Patients who suffer from OSA experience repeated lapses in breathing throughout the night, caused by relaxed airway muscles that obstruct airflow to the lungs.
The Role of CPAP in Sleep Apnea Treatment
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP is considered to be the gold standard in sleep apnea treatment. CPAP works by pressurizing and filtering the air and delivering it through a hose and mask worn on the face while sleeping. CPAP improves breathing quality which leads to improved sleep and better overall health. A prescription is required to get a CPAP machine. Most insurance plans will cover CPAP like any other type of durable medical equipment, taking into account any co-pays or co-insurance that the patient pays. Most insurance will cover a new mask every three months, new headgear every six months, new tubing every three months, and a new water chamber every six months. On average, a CPAP machine can last for about five years when a resupply schedule is followed.
CPAP machines come in a variety of sizes along with several different types of masks that take into account your sleep position or if you are a mouth breather. According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are two main reasons to stay on schedule for resupply: to obtain the most from your treatment and keep high hygiene standards. As masks get used and worn, they no longer provide the proper fit, which can result in face lines, pressure sores, and leakage. It is not uncommon to hear stories of patients who wake up without their mask on, often due to poor fit or discomfort.
The most important reason to take resupply seriously is to improve OSA symptoms and potential risks. Simply stated, you can’t benefit from the treatment if you aren’t wearing the mask. Because the mask goes on your face, sweat and oil can accumulate. And for those machines that use a humidifier, dampness can lead to mold growth and bacteria. Breathing in those spores can lead to other health concerns. Ideally, masks should be washed daily and disinfected once a week to maintain optimal hygiene.
Simplifying CPAP Resupply with BetterNight
Dealing with a new medical diagnosis and treatment can be challenging, but for many people with OSA knowing when to reorder the various components of their CPAP equipment can be overwhelming. BetterNight, a telehealth company focused on sleep health conditions, takes the stress out of resupply. Their virtual solution partners with patients from diagnosis to treatment, including CPAP services. By providing omni-channel outreach to patients, BetterNight helps manage the complexities of CPAP resupply so the focus can be on improved sleep and overall health.
To learn more about how BetterNight can help you provide more effective and efficient care to at-risk sleep apnea patients, contact us.