If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or another similar disorder, then your doctor might have recommended that you use a CPAP machine at night. If this is the case, it's important for you to take good care of your CPAP machine. This means that you should clean it regularly and have it checked and maintained at least once a year by a professional. If you are wondering if this is truly something important for you to do, consider these reasons why it's critical to take good care of your CPAP machine.
1. Keeping It Clean Is Important for Your Health
A CPAP machine is supposed to help you stay healthy and safe. If you don't keep it clean, though, it could actually put you at risk of getting sick. Ideally, you should clean your tubing and masks on a regular basis, and you should swap out the cushions regularly. Additionally, you should unplug the unit and wipe down its exterior to get rid of dirt, dust and germs. If you are sick, you will probably want to clean your CPAP machine more often.
2. A CPAP Machine That Isn't Properly Cared for Could Be Damaged
If you don't take good care of your CPAP machine, then the entire unit could be damaged. Additionally, if you do things like cleaning your CPAP machine the wrong way -- such as by submerging the unit in water -- then you could damage your machine, too. Focusing on proper care of your CPAP machine will help you ensure that it lasts you for a long time without having to be replaced or repaired.
3. Your CPAP Machine Might Not Work Properly If You Don't Take Care of It
Of course, in order for you to take full advantage of your CPAP machine, it is important for you to make sure that it works properly. For example, it is supposed to deliver a prescribed amount of pressure based off of your needs. Without proper care and maintenance, it could deliver the wrong amount of pressure. This could make it more difficult for you to sleep properly, or it could even put you in a dangerous situation when you're sleeping. Performing regular CPAP maintenance and having the machine tested on a yearly basis — at minimum — will help you ensure that your CPAP machine helps you stay safe and comfortable when you're sleeping.
