Do you have or know someone who has sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing will continually stop and start. The main form of treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine. While the CPAP machine is monumental in improving quality of life, some people have noted irritation and discomfort from the straps of the attached mask. In this article, you will learn how to make your CPAP mask oodles more comfortable with CPAP accessories and caps.
CPAP Masks & Discomfort
To combat and treat sleep apnea, your doctor may write you a prescription for a CPAP machine. A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is used to deliver pressurized air to your nose and/or mouth to keep your airways open while you sleep. Essentially, it is a breathing machine for sleep apnea.
However, many people have found that no matter how they adjust the straps of their mask, the friction caused between their scalp, the straps, and their pillow can lead to adverse effects. Reported complaints include:
- Scalp irritation
- Hair becoming caught in the velcro
- Bald spots caused by the straps rubbing against the scalp
- Extreme bed head
While these effects range from mild to severe, each can be incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable. Although you can find specialty CPAP accessories designed to help alleviate discomfort from the CPAP mask, these items can run more on the pricey side. Instead, many CPAP wearers have found the gold standard level of comfort: CPAP Caps! In fact, a comfortable cap worn with your sleep apnea machine can turn any mask into the most comfortable CPAP mask.
Make Your CPAP Mask More Comfortable With Caps
Headcovers and CPAP masks go hand-in-hand, with a relationship that comes close to surpassing that of the mac and cheese duo. A cozy cap worn under your mask straps helps provide a protective barrier between you and discomfort. A cap worn under your mask creates a CPAP cushion to keep you comfortable throughout the night. Additionally, caps act as CPAP hair protectors, ensuring your mane is tangle-free and preventing bald spots caused by friction. But not just any type of hat will do; you’ll want to ensure the hat you choose is:
- Made from comfortable fabric
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Has few to no seams
- Fits snug (but not tight) against the scalp
Types of Hats for Sleep Apnea Machines
1. Lace Sleep Cap
Available in both bamboo or bamboo/aloe vera fabric, the lace sleep cap is a simple yet comfortable style. The design of the cap stops it from slipping and the bamboo fabric adapts to the body’s natural temperature. This is a fantastic option for those that are warm natured.
3. Eyelash Sleep Cap
Another hat made from silky bamboo, this style is double-lined to create a seamless interior. The Eyelash Sleep Cap also doubles as a sleep mask, making it a perfect nightly addition for those that sleep better in complete darkness.
4. Relaxed Beanie Cap for Men and Women
5. Extra Wide Headband & Padded Headband
Available in Bamboo Viscose, Aloe Comfort, 100% Cotton fabric, this wide headband is an excellent option for those who get hot during the night. The headband will prevent irritation from your CPAP machine, while the open top will keep you cool and comfortable. Our Padded Headband has the added advantage of padding around the entire headband, providing extra comfort under your sleep apnea machine.
6. Gathered Scarf Beanie
A little different from the other CPAP caps listed, the Gathered Scarf Beanie features a tail at the nape of the neck to protect the hair. The Gathered Scarf Beanie slides onto the head easily without sliding back off.
7. Cotton Bandana
A cotton bandana is a great, minimalist, highly affordable option to wear under your CPAP mask. Bandanas can be tied to perfectly fit the head, making them a great option if you want a perfectly secure fit. Headcovers bandanas are made from super soft 100% cotton and are fashioned in a large size to make tying as easy as possible.
Sleep Apnea can be incredibly difficult to live with. While a CPAP machine paired with a mask that suits your specific needs can make a HUGE difference, the straps can lead to discomfort, irritation, or even cause balding in some cases. Luckily, adding a comfy hat into the mix can greatly increase your comfort levels, hopefully leading to a better night’s sleep. Do you have any suggestions for those new to the CPAP machine? Tell us about it in the comments section below!
Sources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20377631
- https://www.sleepassociation.org/about-sleep/sleep-statistics/
- https://www.sleepapnea.org/learn/sleep-apnea-information-clinicians/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-a-cpap-machine#how-it-works