Sleep apnea can be a real challenge to deal with, and those who have been diagnosed with it have to look at CPAP machines and other treatments. A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is used to help those with sleep apnea breathe more easily and consistently during the night.
While CPAP machines can be much easier and more effective than other treatments, there are some common issues related to using them. One of the most common problems CPAP machine users face is the development of pressure sores where the mask touches the skin.
What Are Pressure Sores?
Pressure sores, also know as bedsores or pressure ulcers, are a type of injury to the skin and underlying tissue that develop when there is prolonged pressure in one area. The intensity of the pressure can vary, from being too intense and over-tightening the mask to being too loose and allowing the mask to shift around during the night.
Pressure sores typically form when somebody stays in the same position over time, meaning that sleep apnea patients are at a particularly high risk of getting them since their CPAP mask stays in the same position every night for hours on end.
Symptoms of Pressure Sores
In the early stages, the place where pressure sores are developing may feel tender or painful. The affected area may become noticeably reddened and in severe cases, blisters or sores may form. When the pressure sore is particularly severe, the tissue beneath the skin may have died and be discharged.
Known as stage four pressure sores, these are an enormous risk to specimen’s health, with the dying tissue at risk of becoming infected. In many cases, surgical intervention is required in order to clear stage four pressure sores up.
Preventing and Treatments Pressure Sores
The best protection against pressure sores is staying diligent with one’s CPAP machine. It is important to adjust the mask so it fits snugly, while also taking care to not over tighten it. It is also important to make sure the mask is properly cleaned and its components are replaced as recommended by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that the mask should be replaced every 6 months and the cushion every 3 months.
In addition to staying cautious with one’s CPAP machine, maintaining a healthy skin care routine can provide an additional line of defense against pressure sores. Keeping the skin moisturized, examining it periodically and changing positions throughout the night can also help to increase blood flow and minimise the risk of pressure sores.
If pressure sores do develop, regular first aid treatments should be administered to soothe the affected area. Regularly rotating the person to make sure the affected area is not under constant pressure is recommended to help the area heal.
Choosing the Right CPAP Machine Can Help
What some people do not realize is that the CPAP machine has a role in pressure sore development as well. Older, clunky machines can be more prone to shifting while in use, leading to higher instances of pressure sores. Newer, sleeker CPAP machines are lighter and less likely to shift while in use and can therefore minimize the risk of pressure sores forming.
In order to help prevent pressure sores from forming, machine users need to make sure their CPAP machine is right for them and properly adjusted. This means looking at the weight and size of the machine and how it can be adjusted for a comfy fit.
Final Thoughts
CPAP machines offer a great solution for those affected by sleep apnea, but they come with their own set of potential problems. Pressure sores in particular are a leading issue for those who use CPAP machines on a nightly basis.
With a little bit of care and the right machine, pressure sores can be kept under control. Always make sure to select the right machine and make any necessary adjustments for a comfortable and worry-free night’s rest.
