Philips Respironics DreamStation Heated CPAP Tubing, 6-Foot

An estimated 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with 80 percent of moderate to severe cases thought to be undiagnosed. Those who suffer from this disorder have difficulty breathing during sleep, with the brain waking them up throughout the night to resume breathing.

Whether they’re aware they have it or not, those who suffer from sleep apnea suffer serious health risks. It’s been linked to high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke and other cardiovascular issues, as well as diabetes and depression. In addition to these risks, sufferers are sleep deprived, which can lead them to be unfocused and sleepy throughout the day, potentially even leading to a risk of an accident.

If your doctor suspects you have sleep apnea, the only way to conclusively prove it is to do a sleep study. Traditionally, this has meant going to a location where your sleep was physically observed, but today this can be done using technology. There are even at-home sleep tests that will keep you from having to spend the night in a lab.

The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine. Short for continuous positive airway pressure, this equipment delivers steady air pressure through a hose connected to the machine. A mask is attached to the other end and fitted over your face each night while you sleep. The amount of pressure the machine emits is based on your needs.

Since weight is a contributing factor to sleep apnea, your medical provider may also suggest you shed some pounds. You could be advised to avoid sleeping on your back, as well. If you aren’t comfortable with a CPAP machine, there’s a device called a Mandibular Advancement Device that adjusts the set of your mouth to improve breathing. As a last resort, surgery might be recommended, but this is usually not necessary.

• The hose is a very important part of your CPAP’s operations. Make sure you choose one that’s long enough to reach and that will have the flexibility to work its way around bed frames and pillows.
• Not all hoses work with all CPAP machines. Check compatibility. Most manufacturers list which machines they work with in the specs. Most hoses are 19mm in diameter, making them standard. If you see a 15mm hose, it’s a slimmer hose that’s compatible only with select machines. The connector should be 22mm to be compatible with most CPAP masks.
• Condensation is an ongoing issue with CPAP hoses. Heated hoses cut down on condensation, although you’ll probably never get away from it completely.
• As with any product that spends time in moist conditions, CPAP equipment can build bacteria over time. For best results, wash your hose with mild soap or shampoo every morning upon waking, then let it air dry.
• On a regular basis, inspect your hose for cracks or holes, as well as signs of mold or bacteria. While proper care can extend the life of your hose for as long as a year, some hoses have a replacement recommendation of every two to three months.
• Pay close attention to the reach you’ll need between the CPAP machine and where you’ll sleep. Many CPAP hoses are 6-feet long, but you can find some that are 10 feet. You’ll want a little extra room to move around during the night, so keep that in mind as you measure.
• Chances are, you travel at least every now and then, and you’ll want to make sure you can take your CPAP machine along with you. Most are portable enough to easily pack in a suitcase or bag but keep in mind that you’ll need to clean it while you’re on the road. As you’re planning any trip, make sure you’ll have access to hot water, soap or shampoo and a somewhat sterile place to allow your mask and hose to air dry during the day. This could be a problem if you’re spending the week camping in the middle of the woods. Wipes can help in those situations.