Starting to Use CPAP

Steps
Getting Started

A CPAP machine helps keep your airways open while you sleep by delivering steady air pressure through a tube and face mask.

Your CPAP will be sent to you by a durable medical equipment (DME) company. They'll help you with:

  • Initial machine setup
  • Detailed instructions for use, including how to fit the mask and how to clean the machine
  • Billing setup
  • A monitoring app to track your progress

When you get the machine, it may take a while to get used to it. Don't get discouraged! Once you adjust, most people feel much better.

Learn more:

Free YouTube videos can also help answer questions about using your CPAP. Just search for the name of the machine or mask.

Wear It All Night

Use the CPAP machine the entire time you're sleeping (or as much as you can) to get the most benefit.

At a minimum, use it for 4 hours per night so insurance will pay for it. Usually, you have 90 days to meet this requirement, or your machine will be taken away. These requirements vary by insurance company.

If you cannot get used to the machine, reach out to the durable medical equipment (DME) company to discuss alternative mask options. If that does not work, reach out to Galileo or your sleep center.

Making Adjustments

Galileo or your sleep center will follow up after a few weeks of using CPAP to review your data, see how well it's working, and if any adjustments are needed.

If you have severe trouble getting used to CPAP after a few nights, let your durable medical equipment (DME) company know. You may need a different mask.

If your difficulties continue despite a new mask, let Galileo or your sleep center know. Make sure you know the name of your equipment and home care company before reaching out.

Weight Change

If you're overweight, working on weight loss may reduce or eliminate your need for CPAP. Let us know if you'd like our help to lose weight.

If your weight changes significantly, please let us know. You may need another sleep study to make sure your settings are correct.

Know what to expect from CPAP. It's not as hard as it sounds!

Related Links

The Importance of Treating Sleep Apnea

External Resources:

CPAP (sleepeducation.org)
CPAP Machines: Tips for Avoiding 10 Common Problems (mayoclinic.org)

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