Equipment

Sleep, breathe, and live better! Sleep Center of Central Minnesota offers an extensive inventory of equipment and supplies including Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines, masks, and other items for treatment of sleep disordered breathing. We work with numerous vendors including ResMes, Philips-Respironics, and Fisher & Paykel, to help provide a variety of supplies for each of our patients. We also special order equipment upon request.  A Respiratory Therapist and Registered Polysomnographic Technologist/Certified Sleep Educator are available to work one-on-one with patients to find the right equipment for compliance and best outcomes. Our specialist will help you select the equipment best suited for your circumstance.

Breathing Devices

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the Gold Standard and most effective treatment for sleep apnea in adults.

A CPAP machine uses a mask that fits over your mouth and nose, or just over your nose. The machine gently blows air into your throat. The air presses on the wall of your airway. The air pressure is adjusted so that it’s just enough to stop the airways from becoming narrowed or blocked during sleep. Treating sleep apnea may help you stop snoring. But stopping snoring doesn’t mean that you no longer have sleep apnea or can stop using CPAP. Sleep apnea will return if CPAP is stopped or not used correctly.

Typically, a CPAP specialist will meet with you the morning after your sleep study to set you up with the CPAP equipment. The technician will adjust the CPAP based on your doctor’s orders.  After the initial setup, you may need to have the CPAP adjusted on occasion for the best results.

CPAP treatment may cause side effects in some people. These side effects include a dry or stuffy nose, irritated skin on your face, sore eyes, and headaches. If your CPAP isn’t properly adjusted, you may get stomach bloating and discomfort while wearing the mask.

If you’re having trouble with CPAP side effects, work with your sleep specialist, his or her nursing staff, and the CPAP technician. Together, you can take steps to reduce these side effects. These steps include adjusting the CPAP settings, the size/fit of the mask, or adding moisture to the air as it flows through the mask. A nasal spray may relieve a dry, stuffy, or runny nose.

There are numerous types of CPAP machines and masks. Be sure to tell your doctor if you’re not happy with the type you’re using. He or she may suggest switching to a different kind that may work better for you.

People who have severe sleep apnea symptoms generally feel much better once they begin treatment with CPAP.

CLICK HERE to download the Equipment Replacement Guidelines
CLICK HERE to download the Maintenance Guidelines