Frequently Asked Questions About CPAP & Sleep Apnoea

CPAP and Sleep Apnoea

What is sleep apnoea and how is it treated?

Sleep apnoea is a condition where your airway repeatedly closes during sleep, leading to poor rest and health risks. The most effective treatment is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which keeps your airway open with gentle air pressure.

How does a CPAP machine work?

A CPAP machine delivers a steady flow of air through a mask while you sleep. This prevents airway collapse, reduces snoring, and improves oxygen levels.

Do I need a prescription for a CPAP machine in Australia?

Yes, in Australia a sleep study and medical referral are generally required before starting CPAP therapy. At Connect CPAP Joondalup, our physician-led team can guide you through diagnosis and setup.

Which CPAP mask is right for me?

Mask choice depends on comfort, sleep position, and breathing style. Options include nasal masks, full-face masks, and nasal pillow masks. Our team offers personalised fittings to ensure the best match.

How often should I replace my CPAP mask and supplies?

Most masks and cushions should be replaced every 6–12 months, while tubing and filters may need more frequent changes. Regular replacement keeps therapy comfortable and effective.

Can I travel with my CPAP machine?

Yes — CPAP machines are travel-friendly and allowed on airlines. Many models include travel cases and international power compatibility.

What if I find CPAP uncomfortable?

It’s normal to need an adjustment period. We help with mask fitting, pressure adjustments, humidification, and comfort tips to make therapy easier.

Does Medicare or private health insurance cover CPAP?

Some private health funds provide rebates for CPAP machines and masks. Medicare generally does not, but we can help you check your eligibility.

How often should I clean my CPAP machine and consumables?

Regular cleaning is essential to ensure your CPAP therapy remains hygienic and effective. Here's a basic guide:

Daily: Wash your mask cushion and water chamber with warm water and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry.
Weekly: Clean your tubing, and headgear with warm soapy water. Rinse well and hang to dry completely before reconnecting.
Do not use: Harsh detergents, bleach, or antibacterial wipes containing alcohol, as these can damage the equipment.

How often should CPAP consumables be replaced?

General replacement guide:

Mask cushion: every 1–3 months (Memory foam cushion needs to be changed monthly)
Tubing: every 3–6 months
Filters: every 1–3 months (Humidx filter needs to be changed monthly)
Water chamber: every 6 months

Do I need to use distilled water in my CPAP humidifier?

A: Yes, it is highly recommended to use distilled water in your CPAP humidifier. Tap or filtered water contains minerals that can build up in the water chamber, leading to scaling, reduced humidifier efficiency, and possible damage over time. Distilled water helps maintain your machine’s performance and hygiene, and reduces the risk of inhaling mineral deposits or contaminants. Always empty and refill the water chamber daily to prevent bacterial growth.

How can I stop water from collecting in the CPAP tubing (rainout)?

Rainout happens when warm, moist air from the humidifier cools down in the tubing and forms condensation. To reduce or prevent rainout:

Use heated tubing – This helps keep the air temperature consistent and reduces condensation.
Adjust humidity and temperature settings – Lower the humidifier setting or increase the room temperature slightly.
Position your CPAP machine lower than your bed – This allows water to drain back into the humidifier rather than pooling near your mask.
Use a hose cover or insulating wrap – These help maintain the temperature of the air inside the tubing.

Managing rainout improves comfort and ensures uninterrupted CPAP therapy.

What are the alternatives if I can’t tolerate CPAP therapy?

While CPAP is the most effective treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea, not everyone finds it comfortable or easy to use. If you’re struggling with CPAP, talk to your sleep specialist — there are other options that may help, including:

Mandibular advancement splints (oral appliances): These custom-made mouthguards hold your lower jaw slightly forward to keep your airway open while you sleep. They’re often suitable for people with mild to moderate sleep apnoea or those who snore heavily.
Nasal EPAP (Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure) devices: These are small, disposable valves placed over the nostrils that create resistance when you breathe out, helping keep your airway open. They can be an option for mild to moderate sleep apnoea.
Positional therapy: Some people only have sleep apnoea when sleeping on their back. Special pillows or wearable devices can help keep you sleeping on your side.
Weight loss and lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol before bed, and improving sleep posture can significantly reduce apnoea severity for some people.
Surgery: In certain cases, surgery to remove excess tissue, correct nasal issues, or reposition the jaw can be an option.

Why choose Western Respiratory Sleep for my care?

We are a physician-led sleep and respiratory clinic, offering more than just equipment sales. We provide expert diagnosis, CPAP setup, ongoing support, and personalised care to help you succeed with therapy.

Why should CPAP therapy be guided by a medical specialist?

Getting CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy guided by a medical specialist—especially a sleep or respiratory physician—offers several important benefits compared to a self-directed or purely commercial approach:

1. Accurate Diagnosis of Sleep Apnoea

Not all snoring is sleep apnoea: A specialist ensures the correct diagnosis using proper sleep studies (polysomnography or home sleep tests).
Identify underlying causes: Conditions like central sleep apnoea, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, or heart failure can mimic obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) but require different treatment.
Rule out other sleep disorders: Insomnia, restless leg syndrome, or narcolepsy may need different interventions.

2. Tailored CPAP Prescription

Pressure settings need personalisation: The optimal pressure varies per patient, depending on airway anatomy, severity of apnoea, and body position.
Specialist-led titration: Doctors use data from sleep studies and CPAP machines to fine-tune pressure for maximum benefit and comfort.
Consideration of co-existing conditions: Asthma, COPD, heart disease, or obesity may require special machine modes (e.g., BiPAP or ASV).

3. Monitoring and Long-Term Outcomes

Adjust therapy as needed: A specialist monitors your progress using follow-up data and sleep quality reports.
Early troubleshooting: They can address mask leaks, nasal congestion, or discomfort, which often cause patients to abandon therapy prematurely.
Track health improvements: Proper CPAP use reduces cardiovascular risks, improves cognitive function, and enhances quality of life.

4. Avoiding Misuse or Complications

Risk of over-the-counter CPAP: Commercially purchased devices may have inappropriate settings, leading to persistent symptoms, under or over (unnecessary) treatment, or side effects.
Mask fit and comfort: Poorly fitted masks cause leaks, skin irritation, or pressure sores—issues a specialist can help prevent.
Identify therapy failure: If CPAP isn’t effective, a doctor can investigate alternative treatments (e.g., mandibular advancement splints or surgery).

5. Insurance and Legal Requirements

Medical documentation: Health insurance, driving licenses (in some countries), and workplace safety compliance often require a doctor’s diagnosis and follow-up reports.
Specialist reports: Necessary for professional drivers, pilots, or safety-critical workers where untreated OSA can have legal implications.

Online CPAP and Accessories Purchase

1. Can I return a product if it’s faulty?

Yes, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee for faulty or damaged products. Please notify us by phone or email with details of the issue. All claims will be subject to assessment by us or the manufacturer. Please note: CPAP masks and accessories are excluded from refunds due to hygiene reasons unless they are faulty. Click here for our Refund Policy.

2. Do you offer a warranty on CPAP equipment?

Yes, all machines come with a manufacturer’s warranty—typically 2 to 5 years depending on the brand. Masks and accessories may have shorter warranty periods. Contact us for specifics.

3. Can I return a product if I change my mind?

Due to health regulations, we do not accept returns for change of mind on CPAP masks or accessories once opened. Unopened and unused items may be eligible for return within 14 days—contact us for approval.

4. Who pays for return shipping?

Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer, unless the item is confirmed to be faulty or incorrect.

5. How long does shipping take?

Orders are usually dispatched within 1–2 business days. Standard delivery takes 4–7 business days depending on your location.

6. Do you offer support after purchase?

Yes! We’re happy to provide after-sales support for setup, troubleshooting, and usage tips. Contact us anytime by phone or email for help.

7. Are your products genuine and high-quality?

Absolutely. We are committed to offering only high-quality, authentic products from reputable CPAP brands. Your therapy is our priority.