Video Support and FAQ

We've linked to some short video clips going over some of the commonly encountered problems people can experience using CPAP. The videos are informal and presented by sleep therapist in the USA. We decided to link to his videos as he follows the exact philisophy we have developed independently at the Sleep Well Clinic. CPAP should not be a hardship or an anchor, it should be your passport to the rest of your life.

How to deal with claustrophobia when starting CPAP

Four simple steps from the good folks at freeCPAPadvice.com to help with claustrophobia and anxiety with CPAP. This is a must for anyone that has trouble tolerating CPAP when they first try it out. If you develop claustrophobia or anxiety after being an established CPAP user, it might mean your pressure needs to be reviewed so CONTACT THE CLINICAL SUPPORT TEAM - 0800476673.

How to transfer your sleep data to the clinic from an F&P PREMO + CPAP

Don't forget if you upload data to also CONTACT THE CLINICAL SUPPORT TEAM on 0800476673 to discuss your upload. We don't get notified automatically if you upload your data, so call us to let us know to look.

How to view your own sleep data on an F&P PREMO+ CPAP

If you are looking at your sleep data, as a general rule the apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) should be sitting at least below 10/hr, and ideally below 5/hr. Note that some people have 'complex' apnoea with a residual AHI that is higher than those numbers, which you should have discussed with your Sleep Therapists during the start-up period. If you have any concerns, or if you just want to talk about the readings, CONTACT THE CLINICAL SUPPORT TEAM on 0800476673.

How to change the pressure on an F&P PREMO+ CPAP

First rule of pressure change is CONTACT THE CLINICAL SUPPORT TEAM on 0800476673 to discuss things. There might be another explanation. If you turn pressure DOWN and start snoring or feel like you are struggling to breathe you have gone down too far. As a pretty good guide CPAP is usually effective at a setting around 10% of your body weight in kilos through to that plus three, with an upper limit of about 15cmH2O regardless of weight i.e a 90kg person would expect to be on about 9cmH2O through to about 12cmH2O. If you have a cold or blocked nose you would be at the higher end and if no other complications you would be at the lower end.

New to CPAP. Breathing with CPAP. What should CPAP feel like?

Real World Advice

The following tips and tricks are general advice and should not over-ride specific instructions offered to you by your CPAP therapist. The mask tips apply more to people using a nasal mask rather than full-face or oral. If you have specific concerns or questions, please feel free to get in touch through our contact page.

Signs things are working

• Getting rid of snoring is a sign the CPAP pressure settings are about right. If you are told you are snoring even on CPAP, call your therapist.
• Reduced toileting during the night or reduced bladder pressure on waking is a sign you are getting more of a hormone normally produced during unbroken deep sleep.
• Reduced sleepiness after using CPAP, particularly mid-afternoon and early evening the next day is a sign your sleep was less broken.

Mask tips

• The bottom straps hold the mask in place. If the mask leaks it is usually the bottom straps that should be adjusted even if the leak is near the top. Very small adjustments to the straps can make a big difference.
• The forehead straps should be as loose as you can have them without letting air leak in your eyes.
• If the bridge of your nose gets tender or if you get a “pimple”, the mask needs to be adjusted or your skin might be reacting to being covered. Make a point of calling your therapist.
• Run the tube under your blankets or duvet to help control the mask when you roll over, and also to minimise condensation.

 Maintenance and cleaning

•  As often as you change your bed linen, you should clean your mask and headgear. You can clean the silicone seal or nasal pillow with a wet-wipe or damp cloth. The headgear can be hand-washed to stay fresh and clean, or machine washed with the Velcro tabs folded over.
• If you have a mask with a grey inner foam cushion, you can also clean the foam with a wet-wipe or damp cloth, but avoid soaking the grey inner foam, as it will absorb water.
• If you use water in the humidification chamber, tip any remaining water out in the morning. You can run the machine for a few minutes to dry any last water left in the chamber. Every few months as needed, white vinegar can be used to remove lime staining inside the chamber.
• Visually inspect the small filter at the back of the machine. Flick dust out of it as often as required.