Are you one of the 46 million Americans who currently suffer from sleep apnea? If yes, then chances are you are using CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine to deal with your breathing problems while in sleep. It may seem difficult to maintain the cleanliness of your CPAP machine after use, but it is essential for your health. As long as it is cleaned effectively and regularly, it should be fine. While there are useful tips from the pros to safely clean and maintain your cpap, here are the signs that you should be aware of.
You Get Sick All the Time
Keep in mind that germs are anywhere and they can easily thrive inside your CPAP equipment. Many CPAP users report that they often suffer from sinus infections or other health problems after starting CPAP therapy. Possible health effects of a soiled CPAP machine, aside from sinus infection, include frequent nasal congestion and irritation, throat infection, pneumonia, pneumonitis, regular cold symptoms, intense coughing, and even asthma attacks. All of these conditions can often be due to dirty CPAP equipment. Stop the cycle and make sure your sleep equipment is safe and clean for daily use. After all, it is for the benefit of your general well-being.
You Smell a Musty Scent
Your sense of smell may be the first to alert you of a problem. If your CPAP smells like mildew, it is an indication that your CPAP machine might contain pathogens, a bacteria that causes serious diseases like measles, oral and genital herpes, meningitis, and shingles to mention a few. CPAP machines can be a breeding ground for unwanted bacteria that prefer a warm, moist environment.
The bacteria gets into the machine when the mask sits on the face, in contact with organisms on the skin. Over time, bacteria and oils on a dirty mask may collect inside the machine. To save from bacteria-causing illnesses, it is advisable to have your CPAP equipment completely dry and meticulously cleaned.
You Have Frequent Irritation
CPAP masks can accumulate oil and dirt over time. This can cause skin irritation if your skin comes into contact with it. This can also happen if the mask is not properly fitted, but it is more likely to be dirty or soiled. Skin irritation and rashes are the common effects of contaminated CPAP air. While skin irritation and rashes can be cured with proper treatment, a soiled CPAP machine can cause severe skin conditions like skin peeling, cystic acne, breakouts, soreness, and other skin allergies that would require medical attention. Don’t let your machine be contaminated before you do something about it. By establishing a routine for cleaning your CPAP machine, you can effectively clean it and maintain your therapy.