We tend to think of sleep problems as being caused by the usual suspects ~ stress, caffeine, screens, late nights. But what about the medications you're taking? Some can affect the very chemical systems in your brain that help regulate wakefulness, memory and cognition. Antihistamines and medications such as oxybutynin are two examples that are worth knowing about, particularly if you're taking them regularly. Because making you sleepy isn't necessarily the same thing as help

There is a lot of discussion in CPAP groups about what your AHI “should” be. You will often see comments saying things like: “Your AHI should be under 1.” Or even: “If it’s above 1, you are still suffocating.” While I understand where people are coming from, I think it is important to add some context here - especially for people who are new to CPAP therapy and already feeling overwhelmed. First, an AHI under 5 is currently considered the generally accepted treated/normal ran

You’ve probably seen it: a tiny implant, no mask, no machine - just promises to “help you sleep better instantly.” Sounds tempting, right?

This is NOT true Let’s clear something up. There’s a growing wave of posts, videos, and so-called “sleep hacks” floating around - gadgets, tapes, pillows, jaw aligners... and now, throat exercises to cure sleep apnea. No. Sorry, but no. While throat or oropharyngeal exercises (sometimes called "myofunctional therapy") may offer slight improvement in cases of mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), they are not a substitute for evidence-based treatments - especially if you

It’s never too late to reset your CPAP routine and make your therapy work for you. Whether you’ve been struggling with consistency, mask leaks, or just “fallen off the wagon,” small actions can set you up for better sleep, better health, and more energy. 1. Review Your Therapy Data AHI and leak rates are a good starting point, but they don’t tell the full story. Deeper data - like flow limitations, respiratory rate, pressure response, and breathing patterns - can explain why

Keeping your CPAP clean and using the right water in your humidifier are small habits that make a big difference. Proper care helps prevent bacteria, mould, and other issues, and ensures your therapy is effective and comfortable. 1. What Water to Use in Your Humidifier Tap water: Safe and convenient. The humidifier heats the water, killing most bacteria, so it’s perfectly fine to use. It won’t harm your machine. Cold water/ice: Some users prefer cooler water. This is okay, bu

At Positively Rested, I'm all about making your CPAP journey easier, clearer, and a whole lot more supportive. That’s why I use SleepHQ with my patients ~ and if you’re ready to level up your therapy, SleepHQ is the tool you need. Start with the Free Version, Then Go Pro Before jumping into the Pro features, it’s good to know that SleepHQ offers a free version that gives you access to basic data and insights about your CPAP therapy. It’s a great way to get familiar with your

Standard, Heated & Slim‑Line - and Why Tube Size Matters Choosing the right CPAP hose isn’t just about comfort - the diameter of the tube can affect how your therapy feels and performs night after night. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main options and what to consider: Standard Hose This is the most common tube supplied with CPAP machines. It typically has a 22 mm external diameter and ~19 mm internal bore, making it widely compatible with machines and masks. Standard hoses

Choosing the right CPAP mask can make all the difference in your comfort and success with therapy. One of the biggest decisions is whether to use a nasal mask or opt for another style, like a full-face mask. Why nasal masks are popular For many, nasal masks are a favourite. They’re lightweight, less intrusive, and often more comfortable for side sleepers. They allow freedom of movement at night and can feel far less claustrophobic than other options. When a nasal mask may not

Even experienced users can struggle with lingering fatigue, and often it comes down to how therapy is being used - not whether it’s being used at all.

Untreated sleep apnea isn’t just a personal health issue - it’s a business risk. Employees in safety-critical roles often struggle to use their CPAP therapy consistently, leaving them fatigued, unfocused, and at risk on the job. Investing in structured programs that guide and support your people isn’t just the right thing to do - it protects your team, your business, and your bottom line.

When Patricia first started her CPAP journey, things weren’t easy. She had no trouble with the pressure settings - they were working really well to keep her apnea in check - but she could only wear her CPAP mask for about an hour each night. No matter how many adjustments we made, she just couldn't keep it on for longer than that. Over the next few months, we tried different approaches, tweaking settings and finding ways to make the experience more comfortable. As we know,