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Benefits Of A CPAP Chin Strap

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Statistics have shown that over 80% of people are open mouth snorers. A range of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) supplies and masks have proven to be beneficial in treating symptoms of people who are mouth snorers, or struggle with sleep apnea and other sleep disorders and related conditions. 

A range of high grade medical textiles such as hypoallergenic fabric, latex-free fabric and antibacterial fabric are used by the experts at Biomed to provide reliable, comfortable and irritation free results for all customers. Below are a few of the top questions answered to help you understand more about CPAP supplies, the role of a CPAP chin strap and the importance of high-grade medical textiles such as hypoallergenic fabric.  

What is a CPAP Chin Strap? 

CPAP supplies such as CPAP headgear are designed to assist with holding a sleep apnea face mask in place during the night to assist in treating sleep apnea or other sleep related conditions by limiting symptoms and providing added comfort. 

A CPAP chin strap is a cloth strap that wraps around both sides the head, along the forehead and cradles the jaw  to provide support during the night. A CPAP chin strap is often used to ensure that a person’s chin does not fall open during their sleep to limit symptoms such as dry mouth, jaw pain or leaking due to a CPAP mask. 

cpap chin strap

Different types of CPAP Chin Straps

A range of high grade medical fabrics are used at Biomed for CPAP supplies such as hypoallergenic fabric, latex-free fabric and antibacterial. Utilising hypoallergenic fabric and a range of medical textiles ensure that the person is comfortable all night long when using the sleep mask, headgear or a CPAP chin strap, limiting the chance of skin irritation and reactions and is the most suitable fabric voice for those who suffer with allergies. 

The hypoallergenic fabric which is used in the manufacturing of a CPAP chin strap is lightweight, durable, and stretchy in order to provide comfort for the person wearing it. Our range of CPAP chin straps are designed and manufactured with latex free medical grade fabric which are used in our other CPAP supplies such as headgear. 

CPAP chin straps may be available in a range of other medical textiles such as neoprene or cotton, although at Biomed we utilise breathable, stretchy, and hypoallergenic fabric from Resmed as this material type is best suited for most people and skin types whilst providing the highest level of comfort. 

Why Wear a CPAP Chin Strap?

There are some signs which demonstrate when a CPAP chin strap may be a beneficial addition to your CPAP supplies such as when you wake up with a dry throat or mouth, you have a high leak rate or if your jaw continuously falls open during the night.

It is important to utilise a CPAP chin strap that is comfortable and will be able to be used all night without any problems in order to get the best results from the CPAP chin strap, or CPAP therapy. The pressure that is applied by the CPAP chin strap should be enough to keep the jaw shut comfortably during the night, without adding extra pressure or providing any discomfort. 

A CPAP chin strap is best used for people who experience mouth snoring, although is not best suited to people who are nose snorers, or any nasal issues such as a deviated septum as this may cause lack of oxygen being able to filter through. 

To find out more about the benefits of using a CPAP chin strap, reach out to our friendly team of professionals at Biomed who are able to assist you with any questions or queries you may have and find out whether a chin strap is the best option for you and your needs!

Gain Health Benefits from a CPAP Chin Strap at Biomed!

CPAP headgear and a CPAP chin strap are effective tools for treating sleep apnea and other sleep related conditions. A CPAP chin strap is used to secure the jaw to eliminate the mouth from falling open during a person’s sleep, whilst providing a reliable, lightweight, and comfortable fit. 

At Biomed, our mission as a professional fabric manufacturing company is to create and produce superior fabric manufacturing for high-quality face masks, CPAP chin straps and CPAP supplies. Therefore, we ensure our business operations always align with our ISO 13485 certification for quality management. 

Our dedication to strict ISO 13485 guidelines demonstrate our products’ reliability and commitment to providing our customers superior products that offer a high level of comfort by minimising skin irritations, alongside antibacterial and hypoallergenic fabric properties for safety and comfort. 

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed CPAP Supplies to supply medical textiles for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of CPAP accessories, various face masks and other medical fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts by calling (02) 9758 3855. 

How Do CPAP Accessories Help with Sleep Apnea?

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For obstructive sleeping conditions like sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is the best treatment. If you suspect – or know – you have obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP treatment and CPAP Accessories will help you sleep better and more energised for longer.

CPAP stands for ‘Continuous Positive Airway Pressure’ if you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, it is likely your doctor will advise you to use a CPAP machine with CPAP Accessories, as the technology is proven to help enable patients improve their sleep.

When the wearer is asleep, the CPAP machine provides a steady supply of air through a mask, which helps keep the patient’s airway clear. For more than 30 years, CPAP devices have been used to treat sleep apnea.

There are three basic components of all CPAP systems:

  • The CPAP Machine which filters the air in the room. Many CPAP machines have built-in heaters and water tanks, allowing the air to heat and humidify as the wearer breathes, making breathing more natural.
  • The CPAP Mask that fits over the face of the wear.
  • The CPAP Tube which connects the machine to the mask. Many tubes have built-in heaters to keep the heated and humidified air inside from condensing.

BioMed’s CPAP Accessories

For more than 25 years, Biomed has supplied ResMed with patent-protected CPAP headgears and CPAP chin belts. Biomed’s vast expertise and our high-quality products have resulted in a fantastic collaboration, and Biomed is now at the forefront of the medical textile industry.

Our highly advanced, latex-free, hypoallergenic, and antibacterial fabrics were created for optimum efficiency, comfort, and longevity, putting us ahead of the competition. Our medical-grade fabrics are used in all ResMed CPAP Accessories and CPAP Headgear, allowing patients to experience better comfort and sleep as a result.

We produce and distribute CPAP covers, headgear, and anti-snoring chin belts in collaboration with ResMed for sleep apnea. Biomed manufactures a wide range of quality medical grade CPAP Fabrics to ResMed for CPAP Accessories, some of which include:

  • Brushed Velvet Fabric
  • Brushed Lycra Fabric
  • Lycra Fabric
  • Spandex Net Fabric
  • Eco-Friendly Nylon Velcro Fabric
  • Wicking Fabric
  • Copper Fabric
  • Anti-Bacterial & Far Infrared Ray Fabric
  • Laminated Foam
  • Velcro
  • Elastic
  • Customised Fabric

BioMed CPAP Masks

Our patients are at the core of our CPAP mask design. Our CPAP products go through stringent quality management procedure to ensure they work to their full potential. As a result, we hold an “A” Grade supplier ranking and ISO 9001 Certification, the CPAP masks we produce are of the best quality available.

When commencing CPAP therapy for sleep apnea, patients must weigh up a number of factors, including the type of CPAP mask they would need. In reality, full face masks, nasal pillows, and nasal masks are the three most common types of CPAP masks.

Each CPAP mask and all of our other CPAP Accessories are made of Biomed’s patent-protected, high-quality, latex-free and antibacterial materials, which are designed with the patient’s convenience, skin sensitivity, and comfort in mind. These medical-grade fabrics help prevent allergic reactions and the transmission of germs while also ensuring the technology is comfortable for the wearer.

BioMed CPAP Chin Straps

CPAP headgear is used to help keep the Sleep Apnea Mask secure during the evening whilst you sleep. Biomed uses superior fabric manufacturing for our CPAP Chin Straps; the medical grade and latex-free material on our CPAP Accessories have antibacterial properties to avoid allergies and improve patient satisfaction.

CPAP headgear is often made of stretchy and sturdy medical-grade fabrics to guarantee that the device lasts as long as possible, and that the user can wear the device easily. In addition, the Latex Free fabrics on our CPAP Accessories put a strong focus on patient safety, as inferior and less supportive materials will significantly obstruct care. It’s also a cost-effective method of keeping the patient comfortable at night.

CPAP Chin Straps and Restraints for Sleep Apnea also help increase the efficacy of CPAP treatment by preventing the mouth from opening during sleep. CPAP chin straps are made from sturdy, lightweight, and stretchy hypoallergenic materials, providing optimum support and reliability for the patient.

The same Latex-Free Medical Grade Fabric is used in CPAP Chin Straps as it is in CPAP Headgear. CPAP Chin Straps are typically intended for snoring patients, and figures suggest that more than 80% of people snore openly.

Stay Safe with BioMed

Our medical-grade materials are only one example of the high-quality work that Biomed does. At Biomed, our mission as professional fabric manufacturers is to create high-quality healthcare fabrics and produce superior fabric manufacturing, which is why we ensure that our business operations always align with our ISO 9001 certification for quality management.

Our dedication to strict Australian fabric manufacturing standards demonstrates our products’ reliability and our commitment to providing our customers with superior products that offer a high level of comfort by minimising skin irritations, alongside antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties for safety and comfort.

Through the prevention of germs and bacteria, the life of medical products – such as CPAP masks, CPAP Chin Straps, Back Support Braces and many more CPAP Accessories – can be prolonged. As the build-up of bacteria and germs can cause fabrics that are not of a medical-grade, to deteriorate over time and become unsanitary and uncomfortable to wear.

At Biomed, we have a longstanding partnership with ResMed CPAP Supplies to supply medical grade healthcare fabrics for their products, which have offered superior patient comfort for decades. To find out more information on our full range of CPAP Accessories, Face Masks and other Medical-Grade Healthcare Fabrics, please contact our team of Biomed medical fabrics and materials experts on (02) 9758 3855.

Medical Textiles Company

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Medical Textiles and Medical Textile Manufacturing has had many advancements in recent years. Not only has the use of Medical Textiles seen significant innovations, it has also been utilised across a wide range of other textile markets including sporting textiles and more.

Medical Textile Applications, ensure people who suffer from allergies can rely upon these medical textile products for their health, whilst also providing superior comfort. Medical Textiles are most commonly used for patients who suffer from Sleep Apnea, with products that include CPAP Masks and CPAP Headgear products.

Medical Textiles are stringently tested and engineered to abide by Strict Australian Standards, and are also Allergen Free & Latex Free, and have Antibacterial properties.

Medical Textiles are available in a variety of colours, sizes, densities and patterns, and can be utilised in the following applications:

  • Mobility Aids
  • Clothing
  • Protective Equipment
  • Sporting Goods
  • Supportive Braces
  • Safety equipment
  • Pillows & Bedding

 

What are the Benefits of Medical Textiles?

Medical Textiles promote the destruction of germs and microorganisms which may lead to harmful diseases and illnesses. When we refer to Medical Textiles, it is understood that these Medical Textile Products, have Antibacterial Qualities.

Antibacterial Textile Products, are medical textiles which are also latex free and, also allow the fabric to breathe easier, hence providing the person more comfort.

Companies who Manufacture Medical Textiles, have seen a huge demand in their Medical Textile Products, as its uses are not just applied in the medical sector but also across a wide range of other markets. Brands that incorporate Medical Textile Materials into their products provide an edge over their competitors as they are enjoying seeing customers benefit from the tremendous health benefits Medical Textile Products provide.

Is Biomed a medical fabric manufacturer?

Yes, Biomed is a medical fabric manufacturer as well as a leading ISO 13485 QMS accredited and REACH compliant manufacturer. At Biomed our aim is to assist customers in the entire process of manufacturing their goods to ensure we meet their requirements, preferences and fit.

Reach out to our friendly team at Biomed today to find out more about the fabrics and medical textiles we have on offer.

Do you offer a range of medical textiles?

If you have been searching for a specific medical textile, Biomed is here to help with a range of fabric and textile options which can be used for sporting support braces, pillows and bedding, safety equipment, clothing, mobility aids, protective equipment and supportive braces. The fabrics and materials used at Biomed are allergen and latex free and utilise antibacterial properties in line with our ISO 9001 certification.

As Biomed is a leading medical fabric company, our team is committed to providing quality and resilience of our range of products, making them suitable for regular and long-lasting use. Reach out to the team at Biomed to find out more about the range of medical textile and fabrics we offer!

Biomed is a leading Medical Textile Manufacture and has been designing and producing Medical Textile Products for Resmed, for use in their range of Sleep Apnea products.

Biomed Medical Textile Products meet the Strict Australian and business standards, and are committed to maintaining their ISO 9001 certification for quality management, of their products. The superior quality and resilience of the Biomed Medical Textile Products, provide customer comfort and, also provide assurances to customers who use their medical textile products on a daily-basis.

Biomed is a leading Medical Textile Company, who has been providing quality Medical Textile Products for decades as well as many other market industry sectors. For more information on our range of Medical Textile Applications, please do not hesitate to contact the Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

Why you should use latex free CPAP fabric in your Mask

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It is not easy at the best of times to get a sound night sleep, whilst sleeping with a CPAP Mask. However, in-order to minimise discomfort and to also stay free from any skin irritations, patients should use Latex Free CPAP Mask Fabric. Being a major supplier of Chin Straps for Sleep Apnea to ResMed for more than 30 years, Biomed are a leading textile manufacturing company, best known for creating high-quality CPAP masks with our patented medical grade fabrics. Biomed holds a patent for quality, high grade Latex Free Fabric, which is used in all CPAP mask applications.

What are the benefits of using Latex Free CPAP Fabric?

The most common benefits of using a Latex Free Fabric, would be in its ability to mould with your face, whilst sleeping on a pillow. The soft fabric allows patients to move freely, without worrying about having hard plastic pushing against their skin during the night.

With its soft-sponge like feel, the CPAP fabric also ensures the mask fits firmly against the patients face, whilst allowing the CPAP mask to expand and contract when the patient moves whilst asleep. By doing so, the CPAP Fabric encourages a firm seal thus reducing any leaks.

By using Latex Free Fabric in your CPAP Mask, will ensure skin irritation is reduced to a minimum, however there are many different types of medical grade CPAP fabrics, which can provide patient improvements in their comfort levels. Some of which include, Brushed Velvet Fabric, Brushed Lycra Fabric, Spandex Net Fabric and Anti-Bacterial Fabric just to name a few. To see the wide range of Latex Free Fabric, we use in our CPAP mask material click here.

Biomed understands the absolute requirement in providing quality latex free fabrics, for use in CPAP mask manufacturing. Research also shows, the majority of patients are side sleepers and as a consequence, require a latex free CPAP strap which is light-weight and takes up less surface area on their face. Resmed provide quality CPAP masks for side sleepers, that use the patented Biomed technology.

Biomed is a leading medical fabric manufacturing company, who has a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply latex free CPAP straps and headgear, which has been providing superior patient comfort for decades. For more information on our full range of CPAP medical fabrics or other technical textiles, please do not hesitate to contact the professional Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

How Often Should You Replace Your CPAP Mask?

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Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is considered to be one of the most effective treatment methods for patients who suffer from sleep apnea. It involves the use of pressurised air that aims to avoid blocked passageways and facilitate more comfortable breathing during sleep.

CPAP masks are a crucial component of any CPAP treatment for individuals who suffer from sleep apnea. Available in a vast range of sizes and variations, CPAP masks are responsible for delivering the pressurised air directly to the passageways. However, individuals may be unaware of the fact that CPAP masks require regular maintenance in order to ensure their effectiveness. Like any other regularly used product, these CPAP supplies can wear out over time and failing to maintain the product can potentially hinder treatment.

The lifespan of your CPAP mask is heavily dependent on a variety of factors. First and foremost, there are a variety of masks available on the market. From full face masks, nasal pillow masks and nasal masks, each CPAP mask is used in a slightly different way. For example, the nasal pillow mask, which is more intricate and makes direct contact with your face and nose every night and requires frequent replacement for hygienic reasons. It is suggested that this type of mask is replaced once or twice per month. Meanwhile, full face masks have less contact direct contact with the face and are not required to be replaced so often. Generally, this type of mask is replaced on a quarterly basis or as needed.

Although the specific type of mask can determine the frequency replacement, other factors also should be considered. Regular maintenance and cleaning of these masks is imperative for hygienic reasons and to also ensure the functionality of the device. However, excessive cleaning with harsh chemicals can also wear out your CPAP mask earlier than expected, therefore impeding the effectiveness of treatment. Frequent cleaning of your CPAP accessories is recommended, however harsh cleaning products with strong chemicals should be avoided to maintain the longevity of your CPAP mask. It is advised to clean your mask regularly with warm water and mild soap as opposed to regular cleaning products that could potentially be damaging to your accessories.

Furthermore, CPAP masks can vary in quality amongst suppliers. At Biomed, we are a leading medical fabric engineering company best known for manufacturing CPAP supplies for ResMed. Our superior quality patented medical grade and allergen-free technical textiles are used in the creation of CPAP masks. All of our fabrics are breathable, hypoallergenic and latex free to maximise comfort and hygiene as well as minimise allergies and irritation which is commonly experienced by CPAP sufferers. As a result, our high-quality fabrics contribute to the longevity and durability of various CPAP supplies to constantly maintain effective treatment.

Biomed is a leading medical textile company with a longstanding supplier partnership with ResMed. We are responsible for supplying our superior quality technical textiles in order to manufacture various CPAP accessories in which we have achieved an A grade supplier score. For more information on our patented medical grade fabric at Biomed, or ways in which you can maintain your CPAP supplies, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team on (02) 9758 3855.

Top Tips for CPAP Therapy During Summer

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Summer is fast approaching, and what can already be an uncomfortable slumber for sleep apnea sufferers, can potentially become even more unbearable as the humidity rises.  In fact, a 2012 MedScape article discovered that roughly 50% of individuals who have been prescribed CPAP therapy are either not interested or terminate their CPAP treatment, with comfort cited as one of the most common concerns. At Biomed, we are a leading medical manufacturing company, best known for creating high-quality CPAP masks with our patented medical grade fabrics for ResMed. With extensive experience in developing superior CPAP supplies, here are our top tips to stay comfortable and maintain your CPAP masks this summer season!

CPAP masks play a vital role in sleep apnea treatment. It is responsible for delivering pressurised air to the passageways in order to prevent blockages and encourage a restful sleep. However, during the warmer months silicone CPAP masks can often trap heat around your face, making you feel sweaty and uncomfortable which ultimately impacts the quality of sleep.

However, not only will perspiration make you feel uncomfortable when you’re trying to rest, but excessive heat can also hinder the effectiveness of the CPAP accessories. For example, wearing a silicone mask during the warmer months may increase the amount of oils that your skin secretes in that area. Build-up of this oil can impact the quality of the CPAP mask and become a breeding ground for a bacteria, which is further exacerbated by the warm and humid conditions. Evidently, consistent wear of a bacteria-filled mask can expose you to a range of illnesses that can really dampen the summertime spirit. Some patients even experience symptoms of skin irritation and breakouts around the mask area as a result of increased humidity, perspiration and excessive release of the skin’s oils.

Luckily, these issues can be easily managed to improve a patient’s quality of sleep in the warm weather. First and foremost, CPAP masks and other accessories should be carefully washed on a regular basis to maximise effectiveness and minimise the build-up of bacteria. To do so, gently wash the mask by hand with warm water and soap. Harsh cleaning products filled with chemical should be avoided where possible as it can potentially damage the CPAP mask or result in harmful residue. The mask should be left to air dry on a flat surface to keep its shape and direct sunlight should also be avoided.

Furthermore, at Biomed, we supply high quality, antibacterial and medical grade fabrics which are used in the construction of CPAP masks and other CPAP supplies. Our allergen free, latex free and antibacterial materials that are used in the construction of CPAP masks help to minimise the occurrence of skin related issues and other summertime allergies commonly cited by sleep apnea sufferers. Our fabrics are also comfortable and breathable to maximise overall comfort for the wearer. We’re dedicated to providing solutions that ensure patients get the most out of their CPAP therapy, regardless of the season.

As a leading medical fabric manufacturing company, we are dedicated to providing superior technical textiles and medical grade fabrics that are valuable for a vast range of industries. Our team has a longstanding partnership with ResMed to supply medical textiles with hypoallergenic properties in order to create superior quality CPAP masks that maximise patient comfort. Our fabric range also has the potential to provide exceptional benefits beyond the medical industry and we can create tailored solutions that meet specific requirements. For more information on CPAP manufacturing, medical fabrics or other technical textiles, please do not hesitate to contact the professional Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

How Jeans Can Help Create Cartilage For Joint Reconstructions

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As a leading fabric engineering company specialising in technical textiles for the medical field and beyond, Biomed is dedicated to providing up to date, industry-relevant news and advancements. Most recently, scientists at Deakin University in Melbourne have developed an innovative textile recycling method that not only tackles textile waste but may contribute to the development of artificial cartilage for joint reconstructions. It’s breakthroughs such as these which are revolutionising medical fabrics and technical textiles within the fabric manufacturing industry.

What are medical textiles?

Medical textiles are various forms of fabric which have been designed and produced for use within the medical industry. Such medical grade fabrics have a variety of applications and are currently used to create linen, upholstery, curtains and more. In fact, at Biomed, we are well known for using hypoallergenic, medical grade textiles to create CPAP accessories and supplies. However, a 2010 study also noted that medical textiles provide immense benefit for implantable applications, which has gained significant traction in recent years.

Innovative Medical Textile Advancements 

In August 2018 it was revealed by a News Corp publication that researchers at Deakin University from Deakin’s Institute of Frontier Materials (IFM) and the School of Engineering, discovered a way to transform worn out jeans to create artificial cartilage for worn out knees and other joint reconstructions. Their research determined a way to dissolve denim to create a lightweight aerogel substance that can be utilised to create cartilage, necessary for the repair of damaged joints.

In fact, this revolution can be highly beneficial to the medical industry with some reports stating that knee or hip replacement surgery in Australia has risen up to 60% over the last 10 years. It is also predicted that as a result of Australia’s aging population and the prevalence of obesity that these joint replacement surgeries will only become even more popular and necessary in the future. As a result, medical grade textiles, such as those developed by Deakin University researchers will become more important for orthopaedic use.

Before manufacturing medical textiles for implantable use, it is imperative to ensure the structure mimics the bodies natural biomechanics, resulting in an optimal transition from the natural damaged tissue to a foreign object. In this instance, Deakin’s material had strong similarities to natural cartilage, making it a viable option for joint replacements. It is also essential that medical grade textiles used in the manufacture of cartilage and other implantable devices are biocompatible to ensure patients have safe interaction with the material.

As a medical fabric manufacturing company, we are dedicated to staying up to date with industry advancements and innovative ideas. To learn about the variety of potential applications of hypoallergenic and antibacterial medical textiles, please do not hesitate to contact the professional Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

Source: Deakin University

Medical Fabrics That Work as Hard as You Do

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Did you know that trillions of germs live in your body helping to digest food or even fight harmful bacteria that can lead to infections? You may also be surprised to know that a 2014 study found that 22% of hospitals had a positive reading for the MRSA virus, 33% of hospitals have a positive reading for the VRE virus and 57% of contaminated objects within hospitals were transferred to human hands.

However, the medical environment is not the only place riddled with germs that can potentially make us sick. Researchers have discovered that aeroplanes, kitchen sinks and even the workplace are breeding grounds for dangerous germs. With advancements in the medical grade fabric manufacturing business, many industries can benefit from medical textiles and antibacterial fabrics to prevent the spread of germs in the workplace. As a leading medical fabric engineering company, we believe hospitals, airlines, household products and more can all benefit from medical grade fabrics that work as hard as they do.

Antibacterial Fabrics in Healthcare Settings

Antibacterial fabrics (also referred to as antimicrobial fabrics) are technical textiles that aim to destroy or prevent the growth of microorganisms, particularly those that can result in harmful diseases and illness. Evidently, in healthcare environments, such fabrics help play a crucial role in preventing the further spread of disease to patients with generally already low immune systems.

In fact, without the presence of medical grade healthcare fabrics with antibacterial properties, many objects would be ridden with germs and therefore increase the chance of contamination. For medical industries, this has serious implications. For example, fabrics that are contaminated with harmful germs have to be replaced more frequently in comparison to medical textiles with antimicrobial features, therefore being quite costly to industry and potentially putting patients at risk.

While antibacterial and hypoallergenic fabrics are ever-present in healthcare setting, one application of medical grade, antimicrobial vinyl is in the creation of waiting room chairs and beds. Vinyl is an excellent choice of healthcare fabric to avoid the spread of illness as not only does it continuously work to fight germs, it is also highly durable, prevents lingering odours and is easy to clean and maintain.

Medical Grade Fabrics for Airlines

A study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) found that in 2006, over 2 billion passengers boarded an aircraft and the confined space for a lengthy period of time potentially contributed to the spread of various diseases. In fact, the study noted that the main source of infection is the result of being in close proximity to an infected individual and the continuous circulated air in aircraft cabins which contribute to the spread of airborne illness. Furthermore, WHO’s study also noted that pathogens and germs can remain on board the aircraft and contaminate common surfaces even after passenger departure.

While cleaning agents and disinfectants help to remove germs, it is important to be aware that many materials used onboard aircrafts are susceptible to damage. In fact, WHO’s report notes metals which are used in aircraft construction can corrode upon exposure, cables and wires can deteriorate and furnishings may not uphold their fire resistance properties. In order to combat these potentially hazardous issues and maintain a hygienic environment, medical grade technical fabrics provide immense benefit.

In fact, some airlines such as China Airlines have implemented medical grade air filters to remove allergens from the air and help protect passengers from contracting harmful diseases. However, just as the medical industry implements antibacterial healthcare fabric into their linen, curtains and other common surfaces, the airline industry could utilise such technical textiles to prevent contamination, minimise costs associated with replacements and potentially reduce the harm to equipment that is associated with the frequent exposure to disinfectant products.

As a leading medical fabric manufacturing company with a long-standing partnership providing germ-free, medical grade and antibacterial fabrics to produce CPAP supplies for Resmed, Biomed has a thorough understanding on the importance of technical textiles to suit a variety of purposes. For more information on how medical grade fabrics can help fight the spread of germs in your industry or to see how our team could help you manufacture medical grade products, please do not hesitate to contact the professional Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.

All You Need to Know About Sleep Apnea Masks & Accessories

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According to Snore Australia, it is believed that in Australia 9% of women and 25% of men in suffer from clinically significant sleep apnea. This condition occurs when the airways are repeatedly blocked during sleep leading to loud snoring, restless nights, excessive fatigue and can even increase the likelihood of other medical conditions including obesity, cardiovascular disease or mortality.

In order to effectively manage sleep apnea and improve the quality for life for sufferers, CPAP therapy is commonly prescribed. Consisting of pressurised CPAP machines and various CPAP accessories including masks, custom headgear and chin straps for sleep apnea, patients can easily be overwhelmed with the options available to them. Not to mention, there are a variety of CPAP masks available on the market designed to suit individual needs and preferences. As a leading CPAP manufacturer and supplier creating high quality sleep apnea masks and accessories with superior medical grade fabrics, we’re breaking down various CPAP supplies in order to help patients choose the most suitable options for them.

Full Face Masks

As the name suggests, full face sleep apnea masks cover both the nose and mouth to fully support breathing throughout the night. The mask is fixated in place with high-quality headgear made from medical textiles and hypoallergenic fabrics in order to ensure maximum comfort and stability for the wearer throughout the entire night. Without the conjunctive use of headgear accessories, these masks can potentially be displaced throughout the night and therefore limit the effectiveness of therapy.

Full face masks are highly beneficial and are generally recommended for sleep apnea sufferers who rely on breathing through their mouth. Other CPAP therapy options are largely focused on supplying air through the nasal passage and can, therefore, be extremely uncomfortable for individuals who breathe through their mouth during their sleep. Full face CPAP masks are also ideal for allergy sufferers who experience a frequently blocked nose or have sinus issues.

Additionally, full face masks are also beneficial for those who suffer from dry mouth. As CPAP therapy relies on humidified air, patients can actually experience relief of such symptoms, as the air keeps both the nasal and mouth passageways moist, preventing blockages and maximising comfort. Masks are also made from technical textiles with hypoallergenic properties to ensure allergies are not aggravated or induced during wear. These masks are also said to be the most effective for patients who require higher pressure settings.

However, patients also need to consider the potential limitations associated with various CPAP accessories in order to choose the most suitable for them. Due to the larger surface area, air leaks can potentially be more common, particularly if the mask is ill-fitted. As a result of this, some individuals may experience dry eyes if the humidified air leaks at the top of their masks. Full face masks for sleep apnea can also be uncomfortable for individuals who sleep on their stomach or side due to the bulkiness of the equipment. This can also be a downfall for those who like to read or watch TV as they’re settling for bed. 

Nasal Masks

Another popular CPAP mask is the nasal mask, which purely covers the nose from the bridge to the patient’s upper lip area. Similarly to the full face masks, nasal masks are also secured in place with headgear accessories to ensure the mask does move during sleep, therefore maximising results.

Nasal masks have proven to be an effective option for patients who typically move around frequently in their sleep. As the accessories associated with nasal masks are not as bulky as their full face counterparts, patients may find they can move around more freely in their sleep. Additionally, there are many different fits and sizes available with nasal CPAP masks which ensures a more comfortable and individualised fit, increasing comfort and minimising the risk of air leaks.

While the above features make nasal masks a popular CPAP therapy option, the treatment may not be suitable for patients who rely on breathing through their mouth without wearing an additional chin restraint to secure the mouth closed. For some people, this may be uncomfortable and unnatural, therefore making other forms of therapy more ideal. Other considerations that need to be contemplated include the presence of allergies. Sinus blockages can interfere with the pressure delivery and therefore results may be diminished.

Furthermore, patients who suffer medical conditions such as a deviated septum, narrowed or collapsed nasal valve or enlarged turbinates may also not experience the full potential of CPAP therapy through the use of nasal masks.

Nasal Pillow Masks

For a more lightweight and less intrusive option, nasal pillow masks provide maximum comfort and ease of use in comparison to full face or nasal CPAP mask options. Nasal pillow masks work by resting at the entrance of the nasal passageway to deliver pressurised air directly into the nose to facilitate breathing.

Nasal pillow masks are a suitable option for patients who frequently move around in their sleep as they are not restricted by bulky accessories and materials. Nasal pillow masks are also do not feature intricate headgear, yet are secured in place with a single strap, potentially providing unprecedented comfort for patients who might be claustrophobic or intimated by the facial materials. The simplified design also makes nasal pillow masks an ideal option for patients with facial hair, those who wear glasses and individuals who like to unwind before bed by watching television or reading a book. Additionally, nasal marks also have a limited chance of air leakage in comparison to other options, as a result of the direct airflow to the nose.

However, while nasal pillows provide exceptional comfort, they are not ideal for individuals who require higher doses of pressure. If the pressure is increased with the wear of nasal pillow masks, comfort can actually be decreased, as the direct airflow can seem unnatural and unfamiliar. The direct air pressure may also result in higher occurrences of nosebleeds or dryness in the nose for some patients. Nasal pillow masks may also not be the most ideal option for patients who are not used to breathing out their nose. However, chin-straps may be used in addition to the nasal pillow for individuals who generally breathe through their mouth.

While there are many options available to sleep apnea sufferers that are aimed to address different concerns, patients should try a variety of different masks in order to find the one that is most suited to them. Facial features, preferences and treatment suitability all need to be factored in to find the most ideal mask for the patient that maximises CPAP therapy results.

As a leading medical fabric manufacturing company, we are dedicated to providing superior technical textiles and medical grade fabrics that are valuable for a vast range of industries. Our team has a longstanding partnership with Resmed to supply medical textiles with hypoallergenic properties in order to create superior quality CPAP masks that maximises patient comfort. Our fabric range also has the potential to provide exceptional benefits beyond the medical industry and we can create tailored solutions that meet specific requirements. For more information on CPAP manufacturing, medical fabrics or other technical textiles, please do not hesitate to contact the professional Biomed team on (02) 9758 3855.