FAQ

It is possible, but you should never stop using your medication without first consulting your doctor.

In some cases, it can help patients better manage their diabetes and limit the need for medication.

The CPP treatment can help you lose weight by regulating your metabolism during the night. You should also feel less tired and thus be motivated to get back to your daily activities. However, permanent weight loss only comes with significant healthy lifestyle changes.

Yes, oxygen can be administered directly to the mask. Make sure to turn off your source of oxygen before turning the device off to avoid oxygen accumulation in the CPAP machine.

There is currently no cure for OSA, but CPP treatments can correct abnormal respiratory issues and help you regain your vitality.

Some people notice an improvement immediately after starting treatment while others need a little more time before experiencing the full benefits.

You should use your device every night while you sleep. If not, symptoms such as snoring, sleep apnea, and daytime drowsiness will return.

The pressure is regulated according to your needs. However, the pressure level may need to be adjusted in certain cases, such as significant changes in weight.

Certain medications can increase muscular relaxation during sleep and others can alter breathing patterns.

Alcohol is a muscle relaxant that can cause the tongue, soft palate, and jaw and neck muscles to collapse, leading to an increase in the frequency of obstruction during the night.

28% of truck drivers suffer from sleep apnea compared with about 5 to 10% of the general population.

Some families share certain physical characteristics, such as a small neck, large tongue, or weak soft palate and jaw muscles, which can contribute to obstruction of the airways during sleep.

It normally takes about 2 to 3 business days.

The results of your test will be sent directly to your attending physician within 20 business days following the night of the test.

Yes, according to article 136 of the regulations of the Public Health Protection Act, your attending physician must prescribe the test.

Most grouphealth insurance plans will reimburse the cost of such tests. You should check with your insurance provider as coverage varies from plan to plan.

Yes, we offer an online screening test. We can guide you through the various steps of the diagnostic process and, if necessary, your treatment process.

You can place the tubing over your head or over the headboard. You might also want to consider a hose holder that supports the weight of the tubing and positions it so that the mask does not move during the night.

The CPAP unit is probably quieter than your snoring! The new machines are essentially silent and rarely cause an issue. If the noise is caused by the flow of air delivered through the mask, make sure the mask is well positioned on your face, properly attached, and that the vents are not blocked.

When first beginning treatment, most people feel they have to push against the flow of air as they exhale. It takes a little time to get used to. For those who find it hard to adapt, most devices come with a ramp feature that allows you to start with low air pressure, followed by an automatic, gradual increase to the prescribed pressure settings as you fall asleep. You might also want to consider a self-adjusting positive pressure device.

Adjusting the straps sometimes resolves the issue. If you sleep with your mouth open, however, you should contact your respiratory therapist who will decide if you need a chin strap or a facial mask.

Some patients develop headaches or experience pain or pressure in their ears if they also suffer from allergic sinus congestion. Congestion can block the ear canal and the change in pressure can cause pain when air is trapped. This is a temporary condition.

It takes most people 2 to 3 weeks to get used to the treatment. The adaptation period might be longer if you are very sensitive to the pressure of the mask on your face.

The mask is not supposed to hurt. Slight redness on the face is normal, but if it persists and becomes painful, it is a sign that the mask is either not properly fitted to your face, too tight, or the wrong size.

Either the humidity level on your device is too high, or the room temperature is too cold. Condensation forms on the mask or tubing when there is a difference in temperature between the ambient air and the air in the tubing. To prevent condensation, lower the humidity level or use a thermal tube cover.

A constant flow of cold, dry, high-pressure air during the night can lead to sneezing, runny nose, and irritation inside the nasal cavity. If, after a few days, the problem persists, your best option is to use a humidifier.

You can lower the temperature of the humidifier, being careful, however, not to compromise the proper humidification of your airways.

Using distilled water will reduce mineral deposits and thus maximize the life of the reservoir. More importantly, it reduces irritation of the airways.

Increasing the temperature on your humidifier during dry periods (especially in winter) will help prevent dryness in the nose, mouth, or throat.

You might have problems using a CPAP machine if you suffer from allergies, sinus problems, or if you have a cold. A facial mask that covers the nose and mouth is a good solution because it allows you to continue treatment even if you are breathing through your mouth. It is also important to maintain the correct level of humidity. If the problem is caused by serious allergies, you should mention it to your doctor, who may prescribe a nasal spray.

Your mouth must stay closed while you sleep to prevent air from escaping the mask. Using a mask that covers both the mouth and nose will ensure effective treatment. If you are having trouble adjusting to a face mask, try using a chinstrap instead.

The masks are made of silicone, a hypoallergenic material. Any irritation is usually caused by the straps (too tight or too loose), a poorly fitting mask (wrong size or style for the patient) or mask deterioration (dirt build-up).

This problem occurs when the strap is too tight, or the mask is poorly fitted. A mask should sit comfortably on the face, but also be tight enough to prevent air from escaping. There are many types and styles of masks in all different sizes that can be easily adapted to your face.

When you go camping, you can power your device with an adapter and a battery for up to 20 hours without using the humidifier. If you use the humidifier, however, battery life will be reduced by about half.

Interrupting your treatment might prolong your recovery, and your general state of health can deteriorate. If you are scheduled for surgery, it is crucial that you inform the hospital staff that you have sleep apnea and are being treated with CPAP. We recommend you bring your device and mask with you, as the hospital might not be able to provide you with the same type of machine or mask as yours.

Most devices can be plugged into a 110-240 V, 50-60 Hz socket without any special adjustments, thus allowing you to travel anywhere in the world. You will, however, need to use the correct plug adapter for the power supply socket of the country you are visiting.

Airport staff and security officials are usually quite familiar with CPAP devices. You might, however, be asked to show your prescription at customs. Always pack your device in your carry-on luggage to avoid damage. Some airlines allow the use of CPAP machines on long flights and some do not.