How to Wear a CPAP Chin Strap

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can cause numerous and serious health effects for those who suffer from it, including severe fatigue, impaired reaction time and vision trouble. During sleep apnea, the patient has abnormal lapses in breathing while asleep. These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds almost up to a minute. There are different treatments for sleep apnea depending on the severity, which include corrective surgery, change in diet and other therapies. One form of treatment is the CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) chin strap. Made of neoprene rubber and slightly resembling orthodontic headgear, CPAP chin straps come in a number of different styles. However, they are all worn and adjusted in the same way.

Things You'll Need

• CPAP chin strap
• warm water
• detergent
• old tooth brush

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit a physician to obtain a prescription for the CPAP strap that best fits your specific needs. There are different styles and sizes, but your doctor will know which will work best for you. Also have your doctor walk you through the steps on how to properly fit it.

• 2

  Wash your face well before you put the CPAP strap on. Also, if you have long hair, you may want to pull it back with a soft scrunchie, so that it does not get tangled in the velcro straps.

• 3

  Slip the CPAP strap over your head and place the bottom chin strap portion under your chin so that it rests comfortably.

• 4

  Adjust the CPAP straps bands around your head so that they all lay flat. Pull the velcro-tabbed end open and adjust it to a comfortable fit.

• 5

  Practice wearing your CPAP strap in short intervals during the day. Getting used to the strap is easy for some but very difficult for others. Try the strap while you're awake. Shift to wearing the strap during short daytime naps and then work your way into wearing it all night long as you sleep.