A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) contraption is one of the best treatments for those who suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).

For those with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, their airways close or narrow during sleep, preventing air from reaching the lungs. A Fisher Paykel CPAP machine works by providing air pressure through a CPAP mask to prevent the airways from closing. With this, you can reduce or prevent sleep apnea symptoms such as snoring and choking at night.

However, some individuals may find themselves uncomfortable using a CPAP machine as the airflow is too cold. But don't you worry! There are other CPAP alternative options. Anyhow, assessing how adding a humidifier can improve your CPAP therapy is good.

In this post, we are going to focus on the benefits of humidifiers. Plus, knowing how a humidifier works will also help you in the long run.

Let's take a look below!

CPAP Machine Humidifiers

The primary purpose of a CPAP humidifier is to eradicate some of the most common issues a CPAP user may experience. Users particularly facing these issues are those who might not be accustomed to a constant flow of air into their mouth or nose. 

Common CPAP Issues or Complaints

  • Sneezing
  • Cold, uncomfortable airflow
  • Dry mouth and nose
  • Sinus congestion (in this case, you can find our sinus and nasal care)
  • Coughing due to a dry throat
  • CPAP mask leaks
  • Headaches

The above issues may actually prevent the user from getting the beneficial effects of CPAP therapy. 

Pro-Tip* If you are dealing with one or more than one symptoms mentioned above, the chances are high that a humidifier will actually provide you relief.

How Does A CPAP Humidifier Work?

Humidifiers are the best add-on for the ones dealing with obstructive sleep apnea. The main component of the humidifier is the water chamber. 

Note* Try to fill the water chamber only with distilled water. This is because distilled water will add more moisture, further softening your airway pressure. 

Working:

The water chamber is not connected directly to your CPAP machine and, in turn, to the airway hose attached to your CPAP mask. When you activate the machine and the humidifier, a minimal amount of distilled water will transform into vapors. This will further lead to higher humidity levels within the airflow. 

What's more? The main result will offer a more comfortable breathing experience during sleep hours. Wasn't that easy??

Note* A CPAP humidifier will even benefit you more in the summers.

Which Water To Use In Your CPAP Humidifier?

You should solely use distilled water in your CPAP humidifier machine. Another advantage of distilled water is that it stops bacteria from contacting your sinuses and lungs.

You can buy distilled water from pharmacies, online, or at your local grocery shop. If you are in a scrap, you can use tap water boiled and left to cool down, but attempt to go back to using distilled water as soon as you can.

Why shouldn't you use tap water? 

Mineral residues from tap water can build up and potentially harm the machine. If your water compartment gets covered in grime too quickly, it is likely time to change the type of water you use.

Benefits of CPAP Humidifiers

Now that we understand the fundamentals associated with a CPAP humidifier, we can look at how these clever devices will help you improve and enhance your CPAP therapy.

The most obvious advantage is that it will provide you with a greater comfort level. Moreover, this enables you to fall asleep faster and remain asleep throughout the night.

However, this only scrapes the surface concerning what you can envision to enjoy. Other benefits that CPAP humidifiers can offer are the following:

  • Preventing your throat, mouth, and nose from becoming dry
  • Sinus relief
  • Decreasing the chances of nasal congestion
  • Warm and moist airway pressure

Your CPAP machine with a humidifier can even address a common condition known as upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). This is essentially a combination of the symptoms that we have discussed above.

As your mouth and throat remain moist, the body will no longer need to produce excessive mucus levels. This results in rarer instances of coughing and sneezing.

Some CPAP devices have a built-in humidifier, and other devices will have a humidifier add-on choice. Most humidifiers are machine specific, indicating that you can only use the humidifier with the compatible CPAP device.

Increasing Your CPAP Comfort

A CPAP humidifier is an excellent option if you have trouble sleeping with your current unit. They are also helpful suggestions for anyone who naps in a cool and dry environment. If you have been struggling with your existing CPAP unit or if you repeatedly wake up throughout the night, it is savvy to take a look at the various humidifiers available.

Do not forget the primary intention of your Devilbiss CPAP therapy, providing you with a good night of sleep. So, clean and change the water in the humidifier reservoir daily to increase your comfort and have a practical solution wherever you go!