This is a list of microorganisms
that could possibly contaminate CPAP or BiPAP equipment, such
as heated/unheated humidification chambers, tubing, as well as user interfaces
(nasal and/or full-face masks or nasal pillows). I've assembled this list
through research on the subject of microorganisms.
Although detailed, bear in mind
that this is not a complete list.
Why did I begin this search? The
answer is simple, but the reason is detailed, so hear goes.
I was diagnosed with apnea while
in a bed in an ICU room. I had a severe bout of pneumonia that almost killed me.
The doctors I've seen since then told me that because of the compromise of my
respiratory tract with many lung infiltrates at that point, as well as a couple
of other respiratory ailments resulting from the apnea, I'm a likely candidate
for repeated bout of pneumonia. To help prevent future bouts, I was told that
disinfecting and cleaning my BiPAP equipment would be an essential step, as it
is for any CPAP or BiPAP user.
Check the navigation bar on the left side
of the page, and click on List A-B-C-D for additional
information
What
does vinegar do for killing germs?
Vinegar
does not disinfect, rather it removes scaling and aids in cleaning.
(source: chemist and biologist, Philadelphia Water Dept. and US EPA
Antimicrobial Program Branch)
Random
Fact:
Interesting Apnea Statistics
~~ Apnea in the United States ~~
As of September 23, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. (-0500), the U.S. population was 305,235,619. With new estimates
that about seven percent of the population suffers from obstructive sleep apnea, that means
there are potentially 21,366,493 apneics in the U.S.
Apnea around the world ~~
As of September 23, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. (-0500), the world population was 6,725,518,671. With new estimates
that about seven percent of the population suffers from obstructive sleep apnea, that means
there are potentially 470,786,307 apneics in the world.
Awake In Philly is a community education group for individuals who have been
diagnosed with at least one of the recognized sleep disorders, as well as anyone
else impacted by those with sleep disorders. The information contained in this
site is intended to provide support, guidance, and encouragement to others contending
with the many challenges of sleep disorders. The goals of Awake In Philly are to support, educate, and inform those who feel the impact of sleep disorders,
as well as the general public, and is not intended to replace medical
advice, nor is any information to be misinterpreted as an attempt to diagnose,
treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
If you have questions about any of the medical conditions mentioned on this website, especially if you suspect that you (or someone you know) has sleep apnea, please
contact a qualified medical professional immediately. Medical advice should only come from qualified, licensed, and trained healthcare professionals.
Citation: David F. Jackson.
“MicroOrganisms.shtml”, located at . Awake In Philly Community Education Group. Last Modified on Sunday, 03-Jun-2007 11:20:52 EDT. (Page last visited: Saturday, 04-Jul-2009 04:15:54 EDT).
