FAQ

Do I Need a Prescription?

Whether you just started CPAP therapy or you have been using a CPAP for years, you should know that all CPAP Machines, from any vendor, require a valid  prescription. Prescriptions can be emailed to canadiancpapsupply@gmail.com. We accept scanned copies, photocopies, and even pictures from your cell phone or camera.

 

What If I Don't Have My Prescription?

If you don't have a copy of your prescription, we can help.  We can contact your doctor on your behalf and try to get a copy of your prescription for you. We would require  your name, your date of birth, and your doctor's phone number.

 

What Are The Different Types Of Machines?

Typically there are three types of machines, CPAP, APAP or Auto CPAP, and BiPAP.

  •  A CPAP machine delivers a fixed and consistent amount of air pressure, measured in centimeters of water pressure or cm/H2O, via a CPAP mask. The air pressure pushes back the soft palette of the  patient and retains  an open airway. A basic CPAP machine will accomplish this. Different machines have different features and capabilities.
  • APAP Machines or Auto CPAP Machines - Titration, is the process of concluding the correct amount of air pressure a patient needs for optimal CPAP therapy. This process of titration might have been performed during your sleep study. An APAP, or Auto CPAP, or Auto-Titrating CPAP has the ability to "titrate" air pressure throughout the night to calculate your optimum level of pressure needed for optimal therapy results. The machine can auto adjust up or down depending on your needs. Alcohol consumption, opiate use, and other factors can greatly affect your therapy outcome. An Auto CPAP is an advanced therapy device, but one that many patients benefit from and depend on for their long term therapy. APAP Machines, have the ability to record a great deal of data. Since the machine is making decisions by itself on your behalf, those decisions are recorded and can reported to your doctor via wireless connectivity or the SD card equipped in every CPAP or APAP 
  • BiPAP, or bi-level positive airway pressure helps keep the upper airways of the lungs open by providing a flow of air delivered through a face mask. With BiPAP, a doctor prescribes specific pressures that alternate: A higher pressure is used to breathe in (called inspiratory positive airway pressure, or IPAP) and a lower pressure is used when breathing out (called expiratory positive airway pressure, or EPAP). BiPAP Therapy is very popular for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

  

Do I Need A Humidifier?

Heated Humidification is a standard feature. Heated humidification, makes CPAP therapy much more comfortable to use by having  warm and moist air rather than cool dry air. All machines offered by Sleep Apnea Solutions have a heated humidifier and it is by far the most popular feature on the ResMed Airsense 10 CPAP, Philips Dreamstation CPAP and Fisher & Paykel ICON CPAP machines.

 

How Does The Equipment All Fit Together?

Your therapy system is most likely made up of a mask, tubing, therapy device and humidifier.
Take a look at your therapy system to see if you can identify all the parts.
Knowing what to do (and what not to do) when setting up your equipment can make all the difference to your treatment.
Here are some tips from ResMed.
  • Firstly make sure you place your device on a flat, stable surface, where there’s little chance it will get covered by books or clothing.
  • Place it close enough to you that you can reach the controls while you’re in bed.
  • Leave plenty of room around the device, and make sure it’s not too close to a wall or heater.
If you’re having any problems, see your product User Guide, which has clear instructions on setting up. You can also contact your equipment provider for advice.

Can A ResMed Mask Be Used With Another Manufacturer's CPAP Device?

Probably — but if you're using a non-ResMed APAP or bilevel device, you may want to check with the manufacturer to ensure it doesn’t compromise your sleep apnea therapy. The technical specifications of the mask are provided for your clinician or equipment supplier to check that they are compatible with a CPAP or bilevel device. If used outside specification or with incompatible devices, the seal and comfort may not be optimal.

 

What's The Correct Way To Fit A Mask?

Fitting a mask properly depends a great deal on your position. Facial muscles change when we lie down and relax even further once we’re asleep, so it’s always best to fit the mask while you’re in your sleeping position. Whether you sleep in a bed with no pillows or in a recliner, you should fit your mask in your usual sleeping position. If you experience difficulties in fitting your mask, please refer to your mask user guide for complete fitting instructions or discuss it with your care provider or equipment supplier.

 

How Can I Keep My Mask On At Night?

As each individual adapts to their therapy differently, there may be various contributing factors requiring a personalized approach. You should discuss this with your medical equipment provider or physician.

 

Do I Have The Right Mask Size? I Have To Strap It So Tight To Obtain A Seal That It Hurts

It’s important not to over-tighten your mask. Doing so may be a sign that you have the wrong cushion size or an incorrectly adjusted forehead support. If you’re using a ResMed mask that has a MicroFit dial, it’s important to note that your clinician has set the dial at the optimal position and adjusting it significantly from that position may cause discomfort. If you experience difficulties in fitting you mask, please refer to your mask user guide  for complete fitting instructions or discuss this with your medical equipment provider or physician.

 

My Mask Is Leaking. What Does This Mean?

Mask leak may indicate one of several things, including:

  • incorrect adjustment
  • incorrect assembly
  • incorrect size
  • your mask is worn out and needs replacement
Contact your doctor or equipment supplier to determine which of the above factors is interfering with the proper fitting of your mask.

How Do I Choose A Mask That Best Suits Me?

It’s important to choose a mask that’s comfortable, otherwise you may not use it regularly. Although you’ll be guided through this process by your equipment supplier or care provider, ResMed recommends trying on as many masks as you can, talking to other users and seeking out mask reviews online

 

Should I Choose A Full Face Mask, Nasal Mask Or Nasal Pillows? What’s The Difference?

A full face mask covers the nose and mouth, a nasal mask covers the nose, and a nasal pillows mask rests at the entrance of your nostrils.
The mask type that best suits you depends greatly on personal needs and preferences. Some things that you may want to take into consideration are your facial anatomy, facial hair, whether or not you’re claustrophobic, etc. Each mask has its own benefits, and you should discuss these with your doctor or equipment supplier so you can try on various mask styles and decide which is best for you.

I Normally Use A Nasal Mask. Can I Use A Full Face Mask When I Have A Cold?

Yes. You should remember, though, that every mask has slightly different characteristics, so you may need to change the mask setting on the user menu when you switch masks. Always refer to the mask/device compatibility list when changing mask settings on your device.

Can A Full Face Mask Be Used With Bilevel Treatment?

Yes, absolutely. A recent study* shows that people who are using bilevel therapy are more prone to mouth leak and mouth breathing may be more likely to benefit from a full face mask. Mouth leak reduces the quality of your sleep and causes arousals throughout the night.

 

Why And How Often Should I Get A New CPAP Mask Cushion?

Like any piece of clothing or accessory, your mask cushion becomes worn out over time. Mask and supply replacement is important for optimal comfort.
The life of a mask cushion depends on various factors such as how much you use it, the oils from your skin, and how often you clean it. We highly recommend inspecting your mask according to the cleaning and maintenance routine outlined in your mask user guide. The user guide supplied with your mask contains guidelines to help you inspect, assess and replace your supplies. Check for small tears or pinholes and anything else that might cause a leak. Household pets (and children) have been known to damage cushions by playing with them, so it’s a good idea to keep your mask out of reach. Also, be sure not to leave your mask somewhere that receives direct sunlight during the day.
Because the timing and reasons for replacing your mask cushion greatly depends on your mask, it’s important to reference your mask user guide for specific details.

Why And How Often Should I Replace My Headgear?

You may need to replace your headgear occasionally as it may become stretched or lose their elasticity, leading to overtightening and discomfort.  Taking good care of your mask is an important step toward optimal performance. Similar to your mask cushion, please refer to your mask user guide for specific guidelines on inspecting and replacing your headgear.
You should also ask your equipment supplier about how often insurance will pay for new headgear and which services are available to best fit your needs, such as a personalized replacement plan and convenient home delivery.