CPAP machines are very crucial medical devices for patients with sleep apnea. While they are simple to operate, they contain several parts that need to be replaced over time to ensure your CPAP machine is running in the best condition.
Let’s talk about what a CPAP machine is, how often CPAP supplies need to be replaced, and where you can find high-quality replacement parts.
What Is A CPAP Machine?
Sleep apnea is a medical condition in which people often stop breathing while they sleep as their tongue and other muscles in the throat become slack while sleeping, blocking the airway. A CPAP machine, which stands for “continuous positive airway pressure”, is a device worn over the face and connected to a machine that creates an area of slightly higher pressure in your airway so that it doesn’t collapse and block breathing. This pressure difference is very small and cannot be felt but is significant enough to keep the airway open while you sleep.
How Often Do CPAP Supplies Need to Be Replaced?
Most CPAP machines contain mask cushions or nasal pillows that create a seal between the mask and your face, a mask frame, mask headgear, a chin strap, air filters, tubing, and a humidifier water tub. Some of these parts are more durable than others or become dirty more quickly, so some need to be replaced more frequently than others. Here, we sort these supplies by how many months they last before they need to be replaced:
Every Month
Mask cushions/nasal pillows and filters need to be replaced every month. This is because these parts get a lot of airflow and contact with the face when you use them, so they quickly collect dust, oil, and bacteria from the air and from your face. Over time, as this builds up, it causes your CPAP machine not to work. Thus, it is important to replace these parts every 2-4 weeks but at least once a month.
Every 3 Months
CPAP tubing and mask frames, not the headgear, need to be replaced every 3 months. These can be cleaned from time to time so they can last longer than one month, but they should still be replaced every three months.
Every 6 months
Parts that last the longest are the humidifier water tub, the mask headgear, and the chin strap. While these parts are the most durable, but still must be replaced every six months to ensure your CPAP machines function as well as possible.
CPAP Supplies Near Me
If you need to replace some supplies for your CPAP machine, we all have these supplies and more at Reliance Medical, Inc. We offer various brands and parts to suit your needs.
To schedule an appointment, contact or call us today at 325-692-7443 or click here to request more information.
We hope to be your primary source for any CPAP or medical supply needs!
