When starting out with your new CPAP, it might seem overwhelming. Between the professionals on our team and our current GEM patients, we’ve curated our list of the top 10 tips and tricks to help you adjust to using your latest accessory!

1. Practice with your mask! If you’re just sitting around the house, wear it. A great time for this is if you’re watching tv or even an hour before bedtime.
2. When you’re trying your new mask and there is a lot of leakage, make sure to lay down to get a good fit. A little leakage is normal. Contact us if you feel your leakage is not normal.
3. Use it every night for sleep! The more consistent you are, the better you’ll feel.
4. Avoid naps as a new user. This will help so that you are actually tired at bedtime. It will make falling asleep easier!
5. Don’t be afraid to adjust your mask.
6. Use the Auto ramp feature on your machine. This allows you to fall asleep at a low pressure.
7. Use the humidifier if your nose or throat is dry.
8. If you find you are taking off your mask at night, try wearing bulky gloves.
9. Make sure to hang your hose over your headboard to help keep it out of your way.
10. When you first use CPAP, you may find that it takes you a little longer to fall asleep; this will improve with time. It can be helpful to go to bed 1 hour later than usual so that you fall asleep more easily.

Using a CPAP machine can be frustrating as you try to get used to it, but it's important that you stick with it. Your treatment is essential to avoiding complications of obstructive sleep apnea, such as heart problems and excessive daytime sleepiness.

If at any point you’re having difficulty with using or adjusting your CPAP, please reach out to our team by phone or email.