A CPAP pillow is often used by people who need a CPAP machine to relieve symptoms of sleep apnea. The CPAP mask that is attached to the machine can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position. A CPAP Pillow
How the CPAP Pillow Works
The depressions in the pillow allow the user to comfortably sleep on their side. With a normal pillow, the CPAP mask presses against the pillow, causing pressure against the face. This not only makes sleeping difficult, but it can also break the seal around the mask, which will interfere with the delivery of carefully regulated air coming from the CPAP machine.
The use of the special pillow will also help new CPAP users get accustomed to sleeping while wearing the mask. Most users find that the pillow helps the mask stay on firmly without pressing too tightly against the face, and this helps users sleep through the night without waking.
When choosing a CPAP pillow, make sure you find one that feels comfortable. The one you choose should allow you to sleep in a variety of positions, so you will end your night feeling completely rested. The pillows come in a variety of shapes and thicknesses, and some pillows are specially made so they easily fold up to fit in an overnight bag or briefcase. The degree of softness also varies between manufacturers.
Choose carefully, because, for sanitary reasons, most CPAP pillows cannot be returned to the store once the package has been opened and the pillow has been used. If your doctor has other sleep apnea patients using the CPAP machine, she may be able to offer some helpful advice about this accessory.
Can You Make a CPAP Pillow?
Some people have designed their own CPAP pillows out of foam rubber, cotton sheeting and a sewing machine. Getting the contours just right may be a challenge, because you’ll need to sculpt the shape with a serrated knife and then cut your fabric to fit over the pillow. You can find instructions for making your own CPAP pillow here.
Although most manufacturers use foam inside their pillows, you can also buy CPAP pillows filled with buckwheat hulls, which move around to accommodate the mask and different sleeping positions during the night. This type of CPAP pillow would be the easiest type to make yourself, but it may take a bit more time to get used to it.
