A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) pillow is purposely designed to accommodate a CPAP mask and tube.
It was designed with the intention of providing comfort to the user.
It also aims to address common problems encountered with a CPAP mask.
Here are a few: Relieves discomfort when wearing a CPAP mask One of the most common complaints of CPAP users is discomfort.
In fact, it is the number one reason why most patients give up CPAP therapy.
It is caused by the CPAP mask pressing on their face when laying their head on their pillow.
Because the CPAP pillow has grooves and contours, it accommodates the CPAP mask and tubing.
It lessens the pressure of the mask on the face and thus the head rests on the pillow more comfortably.
Prevents leaking when the mask is moved out of place When a patient wearing a CPAP mask shifts position, the mask is often moved out of place.
This causes the pressurized air to leak out of the mask.
When this happens, the right amount of pressure is not received by the user.
It also causes the skin to dry.
Leaks also create noise that sometimes wakes up the patient and the bed partner.
This makes the treatment therapy less effective.
Prevents red marks and pressure sores When a patient accidentally leans on the tube while sleeping, the air pressure is altered.
This sometimes causes redness and pressure sores on the sufferer's face.
Using a CPAP pillow can help angle the tubes away.
This prevents the user from unknowingly leaning against it.
Helps improve respiration If your respiratory tract is properly aligned, it is more likely that your breathing will be unobstructed.
CPAP pillows help align your head, neck and shoulder for a more comfortable breathing position.
It keeps the spine aligned.
Most CPAP pillows promote sleeping on the side.
This is the most ideal position for breathing because it opens up the airways.
Some CPAP pillows have grooves for the ears so that it won't feel crushed after a while when sleeping on your side.
Some have a head support that keeps the patient from turning the chin downward.
When the chin is lowered, it usually compromises the alignment of the airways.
Some pillows have underside grooves.
It allows a patient to insert the arm while sleeping on the side.
This prevents the patient from leaning too much on the arm cutting off blood flow.
Choosing a CPAP pillow Sleep apnea sufferers who have been prescribed with CPAP therapy would benefit a lot from the CPAP pillow.
It would most likely cost more than your usual pillow but rest assured that these pillows will last you for years.
Some pillows even offer a warranty of up to 5 years.
A CPAP pillow is generally hypoallergenic.
It is usually made from soft polyester and foam.
It should feel firm yet comfortably soft.
It is resilient, that even if you put on heavy weight on it, it bounces back to its original form.
It normally has a warranty and some health insurance can even cover the cost of this therapeutic pillow.
When choosing a CPAP pillow, take note of the type of CPAP mask you are using.
Make sure it can accommodate that particular type of mask.
Some pillows come in different sizes as well so choose one that will fit you right.