How do I know if I have sleep Apnea?
If you have any two of these symptoms, you may have sleep apnea: daytime sleepiness, hyper tension, snoring, or if someone has witnessed that you stop breathing during the night. If you have any two of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor and discuss the possibility of sleep apnea.
<back to top>
What do I do if I think I have Sleep Apnea?
If you think you may have sleep apnea, contact your doctor, If your doctor suspects sleep apnea, they may refer you to a sleep specialist who may suggest a sleep study. There are various types of sleep studies and your doctor can explain the differences and merits of each.
<back to top>
What are the therapies available for Sleep Apnea?
The most prevalent therapy for sleep apnea is CPAP, which stands for Constant Positive Airway Pressure. CPAP consists of mask worn on the face, and a special machine that gently uses air pressure to keep your airway open while you sleep. For most patients a simple CPAP machine will provide excellent therapy helping you regain your sleep.
<back to top>
How long do I use the CPAP equipment for?
Your doctor will prescribe for how long you will need to use the CPAP machine. Many people use CPAP indefinitely, while others through diet and exercise can reduce their dependence on it all together. For this reason, National Sleep Therapy will keep in touch with you periodically to ensure that your therapy is optimized for you at all times.
<back to top>
Do I have to clean the mask and other parts?
Yes! The mask parts, hose, and humidifier chamber can get dirty with use. You should be cleaning your mask cushion and hose daily if possible or no less than once per week. Please refer to the cleaning instructions that came with your set-up packet. You can also download a cleaning instruction and schedule card. Proper cleaning will help you avoid unnecessary complications such as skin blemishes, rashes and general discomfort.
<back to top>
When do I replace the parts? And which ones?
Many of your parts are considered disposable. Although it may be tempting to try to use the same parts for an extended time, you really should replace certain parts routinely to have the best results possible with the fewest complications. Please refer to your replacement schedule and watch the Healthy Advantage Supply Program video.
<back to top>
Will I have to pay for replacement parts?
Most insurance companies provide a benefit that allows you to replace your disposable parts according to a schedule. A typical schedule can be downloaded here, but you will need to refer to your specific insurance plan to find out your CPAP benefit. Please keep in mind that there may be a copay with your replacement order. National Sleep Therapy stocks all replacement parts and can direct ship your parts to you free of charge!
<back to top>
Can I sign up for a supply program that will automatically ship supplies to my house?
Your mask, hose, and filters should be replaced periodically. Watch the Healthy Advantage Supply Program video to learn more about automatic resupply. To sign-up for our automatic supply program, click here.
<back to top>
Who do I call if my equipment isn't functioning properly?
If you have any questions about your equipment, please call us toll free at 888.867.8840 or email us
<back to top>
What if I'm feeling dry when I wake up?
If your mouth and nose are dry from CPAP, you may need additional humidification. If you are using a nasal mask, then you may be opening your mouth during sleep and may want to use a chinstrap to keep your mouth closed.
<back to top>
If you are a Medicare patient, your sleep therapy equipment is covered for the first 3 months. Medicare calls this your "trial period". After this period, you must meet minimum compliance levels to keep your equipment benefit.
During your trial period, Medicare requires that you meet certain compliance requirements for continued coverage. If you do not meet these minimum usage levels, then you will have to either pay for the equipment yourself, or return your equipment to us. If you are not tolerating CPAP therapy, your trial period can be extended if your doctor prescribes Bi-Level therapy. These are strict Medicare guidelines for which your doctor and National Sleep Therapy must comply.
The Medicare guidelines are as follows.
During the first 90 days of use, you must:
1 Use your machine at least 4 hours per night
2 Use your machine for at least 21 days over your best 30-day period
3 Visit your doctor after 31 days and before 90 days
Please try your best to meet these compliance guidelines and keep your doctor's appointments. If you do not, you may jeopardize your continued therapy.
<back to top>
You can use your CPAP machine with a battery designed for this purpose. It may also be possible to use a car or marine battery with an inverter that takes DC current and converts it to AC current. National Sleep Therapy does not support or advise this method however due to the variability in configurations that can damage your machine, jeopardize functionality and void the warranty. Please see our Equipment section for specific information on your machine. Please click here to go to the Respironics website that details the use of a battery with your Respironics machine.
<back to top>
Rainout occurs because of the water vapor from your breath and the humidifier cooling against the inside of the hose that is at a lower temperature. Tiny vapor droplets become larger drops and collect in the hose and mask. Please try these solutions; 1) warm the room, 2) use a hose cover to insulate the hose and keep it warmer, 4) place the hose under your bedcovers, 5) make sure your machine is lower than your head, and 6) slightly lower your humidifier setting.
<back to top>
Many times, your insurance company will send our check to you directly. When you received your equipment, you assigned payment to National Sleep Therapy and agreed to endorse and send the check promptly to us. We are notified when your insurance company sends you the check. When you receive it, please write "PAY TO THE ORDER OF NATIONAL SLEEP THERAPY", sign it, and mail it to us in the envelope in your blue folder. If we do not receive the check right away, you may be obligated for additional costs and fees. Click here for more information.
<back to top>
