Starting again after ~5 years

Hey folks,

So I'm seriously wanting to give CPAP another shot, but I have some concerns I was hoping to get advice on before doing that.

My main concern is that I'm worried that since my machine has a built-in humidifier, it may have grown some sort of mold in it over the course of it going into disuse, the distilled water being emptied, and it being put into its bag for storage. I know the water bowl and lid can be cleaned, but I don't recall ever reading anything in the manual about the machine itself. I also have no idea if my hose/masks/machine are still any good or not, since I have no idea what their lifespan typically is.

Aside from that, the main reason that I gave up was that I felt I was getting less restful sleep with the CPAP on than I was without it. I also lost about 60 lbs, which reduced a fair amount of my symptoms, but have unfortunately gained a good portion of that back over several years, due to a sedentary job. I had a lot of difficulty finding a face mask that works for me, as I'm physically large, have facial hair, and have a hard time breathing consistently through my nose, so it needs to cover my mouth.

From what I can tell, this is what I'm currently working with:

Fisher & Paykel Icon CPAP with humidifier and heated hose, Respironics ComfortGel Full face mask, and the one I used most recently, ResMed Mirage Liberty hybrid face mask. I appear to be out of replacement filters for the machine as well, which I'm guessing I'll have to figure out where to find some, if the machine is still good.

Any advice given on getting back up and running would be greatly appreciated.

The humidifier can be cleaned with vinegar. The machine itself should be fine. The hose should be okay, give it a good rinse with vinegar. The mask shell should be fine, but you will probably need a new cushion. Those tend to age once opened.

I'm not familiar with your machine, so I'm not sure if that model has full data or not. You will want to use data to see if the therapy is working well or needs adjusting, especially since things have changed over time.

And you can get filters anywhere your machine (model) is sold.

Filters for the Icon

https://www.cpap.com/productpage/dispos ... -mask.html

I would change the hose, mask, and filter(s). I would also wash out every washable part. If you're using a humidifier, inspect the tank for cracks, mold, and discoloration (or just replace it).

If your insurance doesn't cover these items, you can get them on E-bay, at least for Respironcis and F&P CPAPs and accessories.

BTW, it may be more difficult to find parts and accessories for AEIO-Med CPAPs, as that company went out of business in 2011 after their factory in China burned down.

Also, "air out" the machine by running it for several hours before first use.

If you're already stated using it, do these things anyhow.

Thanks for all the advice, I'll have to see what I can get done. Have there been any magical advancements with CPAP in the past 5 years that I should be aware of?

melome wrote:Thanks for all the advice, I'll have to see what I can get done. Have there been any magical advancements with CPAP in the past 5 years that I should be aware of?

no