The keys for success to long term, positive health outcomes and patient compliance with CPAP therapy have been shown to relate directly to the CPAP provider. Extent of education and support during the first year of therapy and follow-up are critical for patient success.
Equipment pricing is comparable across all vendors however, the degree of expertise and commitment to long term patient follow-up is quite variable.
It is important to have access to experienced respiratory therapists, sleep medicine consultation and in-lab sleep testing. Make sure the company you choose has demonstrated a commitment to quality long term follow-up care.
Sleep laboratory or level 1 tests are performed in the sleep lab and are performed by a sleep technologist. They will attach multiple sensors which will monitor the patient’s brain waves, breathing, heart rate and limb movements. The sleep technologist will monitor the entire test.
A portable or home sleep study test is performed in the home after an individual is shown how to attach the device. The devices are smaller and more convenient for the patient. However, it monitors fewer variables which include the patient’s brain waves, oximetry and snoring/air flow.
For most individuals the maximum benefit is felt after approximately 6 weeks of regular use. Infrequent use or the use over short durations may not yield the same therapeutic benefit.
There are many other potential causes of a poor response to treatment. Some of which include a poor mask fit, inadequate humidification, suboptimal pressure setting and/or the co-occurrence of another sleep disorder that needs to be addressed first. Please contact your Clinician or Respiratory Therapist if you are experiencing a poor response to treatment and they will work with you to resolve this.
Unfortunately, the current provincial plans do not cover CPAP in many provinces. However, most 3rd party extended insurance plans cover a significant amount of the purchase price. We are committed to promoting access to needed treatment and will work on a case-by-case basis with individuals who have trouble affording the treatment.
Both devices deliver positive airway pressure (PAP) to the upper airway. CPAP delivers a continuous pressure across the night; Whereas APAP has an auto-adjusting algorithm to fluctuate the pressure throughout the night within a range that has been set by a respiratory therapist.
Please download a referral form and have this sent in by your family physician. You may also call for us to guide you through the referral process.
We all know people who have many signs and symptoms of sleep apnea. Many people may be reluctant to come for testing and treatment.
A gentle discussion pointing out some of the medical risks of untreated sleep apnea, the ease of testing as well as your concern for their long term well being tends to be very effective. If you know someone who has gone through the process and feels the benefits of treatment, having them speak with your loved one may be helpful as well.
Daily:
Wipe down any part of your mask that comes in contact with your skin (with a wet cloth or alcohol-free CPAP wipes).
Empty the water chamber every morning and add distilled water every night.
Weekly:
Wipe down your machine.
Check filters and dust if required.
Fully immerse your eater chamber, tubing/hose, and mask and headgear in warm soapy water (CPAP soap, non-scented and non-antibacterial dish soap, or baby shampoo work well). Be sure to rinse well and allow to air-dry.
Regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure the ideal life expectancy of your equipment and promotes healthy treatment hygiene.
Even with regular cleaning and maintenance the materials will naturally degrade over time, that is why it is recommended to replace your mask every 3-6 months and your hose/tubing every 12 months.
Our team of Respiratory Therapists are dedicated in making your treatment successful and being available to answer any questions you may have. You may book an appointment with them in person, virtually, or they can guide you over the phone or through email.
If needed, we can also rapidly access sleep medicine physicians to provide consultation.
We at AvantSleep are committed to maintaining a positive relationship to ensure ongoing success with therapy.
