CPAP Supply USA Community

Important Note for Sandman Software and Windows Vista Users

ttillman — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 21:48:00 GMT

Important Note for Sandman Software and Windows Vista Users Windows Vista users may encounter a problem with the memory card reader. Vista, be default, will install a generic driver for the memory reader device. This generic driver will not work with the Sandman software. In order to install the correct driver, please follow these steps. With the Sandman install CD in the drive, and the USB Reader in a USB slot. Right Click on MY COMPUTER in the Start Menu and click PROPERTIES In the upper left corner...(read more)

World Diabetes Day - November 14th!

kperkins — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 13:59:00 GMT

Today, on World Diabetes Day, we at CPAP Supply USA promote awareness for a increasingly common chronic condition in both children, adolescents and adults. It is currently thought that approximately 40% of individuals with Obstructive Sleep Apnea also have some form of diabetes, and new studies have shown a link between treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and the improvement of diabetes. From the World Diabetes Day website , a little information on this day's current purpose and inception: "World...(read more)

Can CPAP be dangerous?

ttillman — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 19:04:00 GMT

http://www.sleep-disorders-help.com/dangers-of-using-a-cpap.html

The question that many apnea patients ask is, are CPAP machines dangerous? While the risks are few, as with any electronic equipment, there are some dangers of using a CPAP machine. Continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machines are used in the treatment of sleep apnea. The CPAP forces air into the airway to clear breathing obstructions that are associated with apnea while the patient sleeps. This allows patients to sleep without disruption, but with air being forced through the body by artificial means while the patient is sleeping it is questioned, is this dangerous? The overall answer is no it is not dangerous. CPAP use is not dangerous as long as the machine is working properly and certain safety precautions are taken. The dangers of using a CPAP are usually related to misuse. Misuse of any electronic device can be dangerous.

One of the dangers that an apnea patient may experience is that the air pressure is too great. If the air pressure is too great it can create problems. Too much pressure of air through the airway can cause, in extreme cases, hemorrhaging and stroke. In minor cases, the patient may experience headaches that are not relieved by changing the apparatus used with the device. If the sleep apnea patient begins having headaches after using the device, he or she should see a doctor to check out the problem. However, the patient should also have the CPAP machine examined and the output should be checked to ensure that the air pressure is not too forceful.

Another of the dangers of the CPAP is not necessarily associated with the patient using it, but with how the patient handles the machine. The CPAP is an electronic device and, as with any other electronic device, there are certain dangers involved with its use. The CPAP should not be used if it is wet and it definitely not be submersed in water. Placing any electronic equipment in water is dangerous, but because the patient is using this machine on a regular basis, the danger is compounded because there is a danger of electrical shock.

Any danger that may stem from CPAP use can be averted with regular maintenance by a professional electronic expert and prudent observance of anything out of the ordinary that may arise during or after use. The CPAP is a highly affective way of treating sleep apnea disorder therefore, all efforts should be made to correct any problems should they arise.

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Traveling with Your CPAP Machine

kperkins — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 19:13:00 GMT

With the growth and constant change of technology, CPAP users are no longer confined to the inside of there homes. They can take summer vacations and visit family members that live far distances and not have to worry about how they are going to be able to bring their much needed CPAP along for the ride. At CPAP Supply USA, we understand your need to be able to move around freely and comfortably with your CPAP. With the holidays rapidly approaching we feel that you should be well informed about all...(read more)

Your Relationship with Your CPAP

kperkins — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:33:00 GMT

Your CPAP machine is an investment in your health that is why it is very important for you to maintain a good relationship with you CPAP by taking good care of it. At CPAP Supply USA we understand the importance of this relationship that is why we have come up with a list of things you can do so that you can have a long, healthy, and good relationship with your CPAP. 1. Never submerge your CPAP in water: The outer casing of you unit should not require special maintenance but if it does become necessary...(read more)

NEW CPAP PRODUCTS! - Fall Edition

kperkins — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:46:00 GMT

CPAP Supply USA has NEW products with amazing new feature for CPAP users like you. Introducing Puritan Bennett Sandman Info CPAP and Humidifier . This machine is conveniently designed to provide CPAP users with therapy and heated humidification in an extremely small and compact body design. Weighing in at 2.65 pounds it is quiet, discreet, user friendly for nightly use at home, and includes a variety of traveling-friendly features like the ability to run on AC/DC or external battery power and an...(read more)

Top 8 Sleep Aids for a Better Night’s Sleep

kperkins — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 17:37:00 GMT

Sleep is a behavioral state that is a natural part of every individual’s life and is vital to our health and well being. Millions of individuals are not getting enough sleep, or are suffering from other sleep problems, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea. If you are one of the millions of people suffering from this problem, you should know that there are little things you can do that can aid you in a achieving a better nights sleep. At Stress.About.com , there is an article written by Elizabeth Scott...(read more)

Healthy Sleep Tips from our Experts

kperkins — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:25:00 GMT

Setting and following a sleep routine can be a difficult task in today’s busy world, but the importance of healthy sleep habits is paramount for having a healthy and happy life. Read the following tips for healthy sleeping habits to sleep better and feel your best each day:

Don’t go to bed unless you are sleepy.
Relax and ensure you are actually ready for bed before retiring each night.
If you are not asleep after 20 minutes, then get out of the bed.
Find something to occupy your time and when you begin to feel sleepy again, return to bed.
Begin rituals that help you relax each night before bed.
Routines can help our bodies trigger feelings of sleepiness and readiness for bed.
Get up at the same time every morning.
Get a full night’s sleep on a regular basis.
The amount of sleep each individual needs to feel well-rested can vary, but make sure you are getting enough sleep each night to feel well-rested and alert in the morning.
Avoid taking naps if you can.
If you feel you must take a nap, make sure it is under one hour and happens prior to the late afternoon/evening hours.
Keep a regular schedule.
Don’t read, write, eat, watch TV, talk on the phone, or play cards in bed.
Do not have any caffeine after lunch.
Do not have a beer, a glass of wine, or any other alcohol within six hours of your bedtime.
Do not have a cigarette or any other source of nicotine before bedtime.
Do not go to bed hungry, but don’t eat a big meal near bedtime either.
Avoid any tough exercise within six hours of your bedtime.
Exercise is best done in the earlier hours of the day.
Avoid sleeping pills, or use them cautiously.
Try to get rid of or deal with things that make you worry.
Make your bedroom quiet, dark, and a little bit cool.
Dark, cool, and quiet places are extremely conducive to uninterrupted sleep.

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The Link between Sleep and Weight Loss?

kperkins — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:02:00 GMT

In recent years research has shown an underlying link between amount of sleep and weight in the American population. Surveys have found that individuals who sleep fewer hours tend to have a higher Body Mass Index (or BMI, one indicator of being overweight or obese), while other studies have linked sleep to the production of hormones that help control appetite. Multiple hormones that seem to have an affect on appetite seem to vary depending on the amount of sleep one gets each night. People who sleep...(read more)

Facts on Sleep…

kperkins — Fri, 09 May 2008 12:50:00 GMT

Below are a few statistics and facts collected from multiple sources on sleep apnea. Take a look and remember you are one of many sleep disorder sufferers (one of 50 to 70 million Americans to be exact!). Fifty to 70 million Americans chronically suffer from a disorder of sleep and wakefulness. A poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation found 62 percent of all adults surveyed had driven a car while feeling drowsy and over 25 percent admitted they had actually dozed off while driving. Drivers...(read more)

May New Items and Sales Events...

kperkins — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:58:00 GMT

The beginning of May has been a busy month for us here at CPAPSupplyUSA.com. We have loaded tons of new products and are planning many of our summer sales events. New products on the site include the following: Many new parts from ResMed , including elbow assemblies, exhaust vents, forehead supports, and valves! The SleepNet petite gel mask, the MiniMe is now active on the site and will be great for users with REALLY petite noses who cannot find masks that seal properly or for pediatric uses An economic...(read more)

Newly Launched - The CPAP Comfort Center and an Introduction from our RT

debbie shirley — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:32:00 GMT

There is a tremendous amount of information available these days about the dangers of sleep apnea. We know that untreated sleep apnea can increase your chances of having increased blood pressure, worsened diabetes, and increased risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. Untreated sleep apnea can also cause depression, impotency, morning headaches and weight gain. Did you know that an individual with untreated sleep apnea can cost our overly burdened health care system twice as much as a treated individual?

Having reminded everyone of all the dangers of sleep apnea What’s the good news?

CPAP(Continous Positive Airway Pressure) is a highly effective and is the preferred therapy for treating sleep apnea. I have been working with sleep apnea patients for over 15 years and have seen many advances. CPAPs are much smaller, more comfortable, quieter. Masks are more comfortable and you now have many, many types and styles to choose from. If you are a faithful CPAP user, you are to be congratulated and I truly hope you are experiencing the benefits of CPAP. Often CPAP users don’t obviously see the benefits, but we know that compliant CPAP use can take the workload of your heart, you may live longer, you may be more pleasant to be around and your spouse may love you more for not snoring. I have had patients that were able to improve their blood pressure so much, they were able get off their blood pressure medicine.

I truly love working with sleep apnea patients. Having worked as a respiratory therapist for so many years with chronically ill patients, it is great to work with people that I know I can truly make their lives better. I am committed to helping those with sleep apnea. I am fortunate to be with a company that is so dedicated to making lives better. I invite you to look at our new CPAP Comfort Center especially created to make CPAP use more comfortable and to help new CPAP users be able to use their CPAPs. Just recently launched on CPAPSupplyUSA.com, the CPAP Comfort Center is an area where users can find many items to increase the comfort and convenience of their sleep therapy. Visit today to see CPAP Moisture Cream, Headgear Strap Cushions, and Tubing Holders.

Our many years of experience and listening to you helps us to help others. Spend some time on our website. Look over our newest additions. I did some research and found that the most common cause of people not using their CPAP is the lack of education. Lack of education for both the providers and the patients. We have added an Education area for visitors to address this concern. I am personally available as a respiratory therapist to help you and to help you understand the importance of CPAP use. We have a full staff of highly trained customer service representatives dedicated to helping you. Other factors that decrease CPAP compliance included a poor relationship with providers of the equipment and common complications of therapy such as marks on the face, discomfort on the bridge of the nose, and nasal congestion. That’s why at CPAP Supply USA, we carry a huge inventory of machines and masks that will meet your individual needs. Our CPAP Comfort Center offers help with these common problems. I welcome your comments. Your experience and knowledge may make a big difference in someone else’s life. Please let me hear from you - Share your experience, good or bad. This is the first of many informal blogs from me. Send in your requests for topics to discuss, helpful hints and your personal recommendations. Let’s work together to improve your comfort and quality of life

Remember - Your choice, Your life, Our promise.

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Welcome! A New View into the Minds of our CPAP Experts...

kperkins — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:05:00 GMT

Welcome to the "Ask Our Experts" blog written by our on-staff sleep experts here at CPAP Supply USA. Newly created as a compliment to our "Ask the Expert" forum and email programs, this blog is designed to allow our customers to the opportunity to see what is on the minds of the individuals who work with CPAP products, patients, and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) research every day. On staff we have Debbie Shirley, a licensed Respiratory Therapist whose primary focus has been on CPAP and OSA for the last 20 years of her career, and our medical director Dr. Doug Puryear, a Board-Certified pulmonologist and sleep physician. Through these two "Sleep Experts", we will be introducing some relevant industry topics, discussing CPAP masks and machines, and talking about the health concerns and statistics surrounding OSA. Sleep therapy and CPAP use are extremely relevant medical topics in the current environment because statistics show that up to 20% of the population could be experiencing a sleep disorder such as OSA (up to 80% of who are presently undiagnosed). Research, product development, and insight into the disorder will continue to mount in quanity and our Community is the place to stay involved with the newest information on sleep apnea.

We hope you enjoy our newest blog, and please remember, if you have a specific question for our Experts, visit the Ask the Respiratory Therapist forum in our Community and Debbie will be available to answer.

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New products added in April!

ttillman — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 16:07:00 GMT

To help celebrate our re-launch in April, we added over 25 new products to our site.

New products include:

CPAP Pro No Mask
Hans Rudolph 7600v2
SleepNet IQ
SleepNet Phantom
Puritan Bennett Sandman
Respironics AutoSv
Respironics AVAPS

CPAP Mask Cleaners
... and many more.

Check it out!

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How to Ensure Email Delivery

ttillman — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 20:04:00 GMT

How can you help to make sure that email is delivered to your inbox?

ISPs (ex., earthlink.net, comcast.net) and Web-based mail services (ex., Hotmail, Yahoo! Mail, Gmail) use filters to keep spam out of your inbox. Sometimes they accidentally filter e-mail that you want.

Mistakes happen. There is a ton of spam, so good e-mail can be filtered out by mistake. We all have to deal, unfortunately, with the fallout of what spammers do to the Internet.

Naturally, you want to keep spam out. But you need to receive important communications, such as Support e-mail, post-order e-mails, and any other e-mail that you have specifically requested (and we only send mail that you request).

Your goal and ours is to avoid the cross-fire of the ever-escalating war between spammers and ISPs/mail services.

Using Yahoo! Mail, Hotmail, Gmail, or Other Web-based Mail?

Check your Bulk, Junk or Spam folder (respectively). If you find an e-mail there from us (see table below), click to indicate that it is not bulk, junk or spam. The same type of process works for all major Web-based e-mail services (ex., AOL's).

Hotmail: Click the Options link on the main menu tabs, then Safe List. Add our address to the Safe List.

Yahoo!: Click Mail Options > Filters > Add Filter and add our address.

All: Within your mail client, you should have a list of spam addresses that you have specified. Search that list and remove anything from us (see table below).

Using Outlook, Eudora or Other Client-side E-mail Software?

You may not receive e-mail you want if it has been filtered out by your ISP before they deliver it to you. This may not be as easy to resolve as Web-based e-mail. But here is what we recommend...

AOL (aol.com): Log into your AOL/AIM Webmail Account and add SiteSell.com to your Address Book (click the Add Address button to add to your "People I Know" list). Check AOL's help for additional details, if required. You could also indicate "not spam" in AOL's Webmail.

Other ISPs (ex., att.net, attglobal.net, bellsouth.net, earthlink.net, verizon.net, comcast.net): They intentionally are impossible to reach. They don't want to argue. Either use their Web-based e-mail to indicate that mail from SiteSell is not spam or switch to Gmail or Yahoo! Mail (the most reliable mail delivery systems).

To Receive E-mail That You Have Missed...

OK, you have either indicated that our e-mail is not junk or you have switched your address to Yahoo! Mail or Gmail (if your ISP will not help you out). And now you want to receive "that missing mail." Just send us an email with your name and order information. We will forward a new email along as soon as possible.

Our Email Addresses

Email from us will usually arrive from of these sources.
Order information: info@ushealthcareservices.com
Community: community@cpapsupplyusa.com
Newsletters: newsletter@cpapsupplyusa.com
Support: support@ushealthcareservices.com

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Ensuring Email Delivery

ttillman — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 19:55:00 GMT

How can you help to make sure that email is delivered to your inbox?

ISPs (ex., earthlink.net, comcast.net) and Web-based mail services (ex., Hotmail, Yahoo! Mail, Gmail) use filters to keep spam out of your inbox. Sometimes they accidentally filter e-mail that you want.

Mistakes happen. There is a ton of spam, so good e-mail can be filtered out by mistake. We all have to deal, unfortunately, with the fallout of what spammers do to the Internet.

Naturally, you want to keep spam out. But you need to receive important communications, such as Support e-mail, post-order e-mails, and any other e-mail that you have specifically requested (and we only send mail that you request).

Your goal and ours is to avoid the cross-fire of the ever-escalating war between spammers and ISPs/mail services.

Using Yahoo! Mail, Hotmail, Gmail, or Other Web-based Mail?

Check your Bulk, Junk or Spam folder (respectively). If you find an e-mail there from us (see table below), click to indicate that it is not bulk, junk or spam. The same type of process works for all major Web-based e-mail services (ex., AOL's).

Hotmail: Click the Options link on the main menu tabs, then Safe List. Add our address to the Safe List.

Yahoo!: Click Mail Options > Filters > Add Filter and add our address.

All: Within your mail client, you should have a list of spam addresses that you have specified. Search that list and remove anything from us (see table below).

Using Outlook, Eudora or Other Client-side E-mail Software?

You may not receive e-mail you want if it has been filtered out by your ISP before they deliver it to you. This may not be as easy to resolve as Web-based e-mail. But here is what we recommend...

AOL (aol.com): Log into your AOL/AIM Webmail Account and add SiteSell.com to your Address Book (click the Add Address button to add to your "People I Know" list). Check AOL's help for additional details, if required. You could also indicate "not spam" in AOL's Webmail.

Other ISPs (ex., att.net, attglobal.net, bellsouth.net, earthlink.net, verizon.net, comcast.net): They intentionally are impossible to reach. They don't want to argue. Either use their Web-based e-mail to indicate that mail from SiteSell is not spam or switch to Gmail or Yahoo! Mail (the most reliable mail delivery systems).

To Receive E-mail That You Have Missed...

OK, you have either indicated that our e-mail is not junk or you have switched your address to Yahoo! Mail or Gmail (if your ISP will not help you out). And now you want to receive "that missing mail." Just send us an email with your name and order information. We will forward a new email along as soon as possible.

Our Email Addresses

Email from us will usually arrive from of these sources.
Order information: info@cpapsupplyusa.com
Community: community@cpapsupplyusa.com
Newsletters: newsletter@cpapsupplyusa.com

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The official blog of CPAP SUPPLY USA!

ttillman — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 19:11:00 GMT

... Coming soon.

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Want to be a part of the community?

ttillman — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 19:04:00 GMT

Do you want to be a part of the community here at CPAP SUPPLY USA? Would you like to have your own blog with us that contains sleep therapy information? Send us an email at info@cpapsupplyusa.com with your ideas and you just may become part of our growing family!

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