Ez CPAP

June 2013
dog on a canoe
Dedicated to helping you get a good night's sleep....

Greetings!
Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter!  2013 AllStar Logo
We hope that the information provided here is helpful for you, and although we specialize in positive airway pressure therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, we encourage you to call us whenever you have any questions about sleep, sleep disorders, and treatments.  Our knowledgeable staff is here to help and point you in the right direction if we do not have the answers that you need!
 
Therapy Tips
world travel Summer Travel

Summer is here!  We hope that you are sleeping well and plan to take your CPAP or bilevel with you when traveling for vacation. 

In our experience we have found that many people make the mistake of leaving at least one vital part of their equipment at home:  the power cord being number one!  So, we recommend that you make a checklist of all the CPAP parts that you need to take with you to ensure that you don't forget to pack anything...machine, humidifier(empty), tubing, mask, power cord, chin strap, etc. 

It can be difficult to find a reliable supplier when away from home.  And just in case you do forget something, it is important to have a current prescription handy in order to purchase items that require a prescription.  Machines--even if just renting--and masks are prescription items and cannot be dispensed without a valid Rx from your doctor.

We have one final tip if you are traveling to a foreign country.  Most of the newer machine models automatically convert voltage based on where you are using them.  However, you might need an adapter for the wall outlet.  And we recommend having an extension cord packed in your suitcase for those hotel rooms and cruise ship cabins that don't have the most accessible outlets.

We wish you a happy, healthy, and fun summer!

 

In This Issue
Therapy Tips
Featured Product
Articles of Interest
Quick Links
 
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Featured Product
Rent A Battery!

The Battery Geeks
and Novuscell Batteries provide travelers the option to rent a battery and/or solar charger for use with CPAP and bilevel machines.
cpap battery  solar charger
Features include:
  • Ultra light-weight power pack
  • Up to 50 hours per charge
  • Stackable Plus technology
  • Go 'forever' with optional solar panels
  • Safe and airline/airport approved
If you prefer to own, the batteries and solar chargers may also be purchased.  For more information, click on the pictures above or visit www.thebatterygeeks.com.


  Articles of Interest
Do You Drink Alcohol to Help You Get to Sleep? Alcoholic Drinks

Not a great idea.  Studies show that while alcohol consumption can induce sleep more quickly, it interferes with sleep quality by reducing REM sleep.

A vital part of the sleep cycle is REM sleep:  the time when the majority of dreaming takes place.  The first REM cycle occurs approximately 90 minutes after falling asleep, and it is believed to be restorative.  Without adequate REM sleep, we are less rested, which results in daytime drowsiness and poor concentration.  In addition to disrupting our REM cycles, alcohol suppresses the central nervous system, which can result in suppressed breathing and an increase in the number of occurrences sleep apnea.

For more information about the effects of alcohol on sleep, and tips on how to fall asleep naturally, click here.


 
blood glucose testing
Blood Glucose Levels Improved with CPAP Therapy

 "Approximately two out of three patients with type 2 diabetes also suffer from sleep apnea, and multiple studies have shown that sleep apnea may have adverse effects on glucose metabolism."  According to a new study conducted by the Sleep, Metabolism and Health Center at the University of Chicago, people with type 2 diabetes and obstructive sleep apnea greatly reduce their blood glucose levels overall when using CPAP.  Early morning glycemic control is also much improved. 

The findings of this study suggest that there is a strong link between obstructive sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes.  In some cases, CPAP therapy may be as effective as taking an oral diabetic medication!  For more information about the study, click here.  

 
We are here to help with any problems you may be having with your PAP therapy!  We also love to hear from you when you have awesome ideas that make therapy easier and better.  Feel free to call or email us with your questions and suggestions!

Sleep well!
 
Melinda Hertel, CMA (AAMA) 
Manager
Ez CPAP
800-780-8128
customerservice@ezcpap.com