• By Clay Rollyson
  • /
  • /

Can I use CPAP while Sick?

It is that time of year again….cold and flu season. For CPAP users that can mean that they have to choose to go without their CPAP while they are sick. If you are on a CPAP and need to make this decision, then there are some things to consider.

Is it ok to stop using my CPAP while I am sick?

In most cases the Doctors that we work with have said yes. If you are sick enough that your nasal passages are restricted, using CPAP can be a real pain. If the CPAP makes you miserable while you are sick, then it may be a good decision to wait till you feel better to resume CPAP Therapy. However, we have heard from multiple customers that using their CPAP while congested actually helped. So in most cases it is best for you to simply ask yourself this question: “Will using my CPAP make me feel better or worse tonight?”.

Make sure that you keep the CPAP Clean and Sterile while you are sick

Recycling germs in your CPAP mask and supplies is just gross, and it will not help you feel better. Make sure that you clean your CPAP Mask and Supplies every day while you are sick. If you need a better way to do that, then you need to consider a CPAP Cleaner to help you out. They kill 99% of Bacteria, Mold, and Mildew.

Ideas to make using CPAP easier when you are sick:

There are a few tips and tricks for using CPAP while you are sick. You may be a person that has to maintain compliance for your job or for your insurance purposes. If that is the case, then you may not have an option. Trying some of them that we have listed below might make all the difference that you need to keep using your CPAP while dealing with illness.

Try a Full Face CPAP Mask

Most CPAP users use a Nasal CPAP mask. We all know that when you have nasal congestion, that breathing through your nose can be really tough. So changing things up to a Full Face CPAP mask can be a breath of fresh air.

Use Cold or Flu Medication

It may seem obvious, but it is worth mentioning. If you can use some sort of decongestant or medication to help your symptoms, then you probably should. That might make all the difference on whether or not you can use your CPAP while you are sick.

Adjust your Humidity Setting on the CPAP

In many cases an adjustment of your Humidity Setting can help tremendously. Just like when you were young and you used a room humidifier. Depending on your symptoms turning your humidity up or even down can not only allow you to use your CPAP, but can also help you offset the symptoms of your cold or flu. You may also want to add heated tubing to add even more humidity.

Change your CPAP settings

If you are not already on Auto-CPAP therapy, then you may want to consult with your Doctor to see if an adjustment to your settings may be necessary while you are sick. On an Auto-CPAP the machine may make the change for you.

Sit up while you sleep

If you can use your CPAP in an elevated recliner chair, or maybe some pillows to help you sit up a bit in bed, it will help tremendously. It helps with drainage as well as with reducing the severity of your Sleep Apnea in most cases.

Use a Saline rinse on your nose

Opening up your nasal passages with a Saline Spray or Rinse like a neti pot or nasal spray will help you on the CPAP as well while you are sick.
Continue reading...
  • By Clay Rollyson
  • /
  • /

3 Great Alternatives to CPAP

If you ask most Certified Sleep Physicians what the best treatment for Sleep Apnea is, chances are they will say, “CPAP”. That is because CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) has long been considered the “gold standard” of Sleep Apnea Treatment. So what does someone do when CPAP just doesn’t work out for them? For a long time the answer has been surgery or “deal with it”. Thankfully these days there are some good alternatives that may be worth trying.

Alternative #1: Bongo Rx

The Bongo Rx is a very interesting alternative to CPAP. It uses EPAP (Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure) to splint open the airway on exhalation. It does this by slowing your exhalation so that your airways don’t collapse in your sleep. During inhalation, small valves open to allow you to breath normally. Then during exhalation those valves close and direct the exhalation through small vents, generating EPAP to keep your airways open. The Bongo Rx is great for people that have failed on CPAP or for those that need a Sleep Apnea treatment option while on the road or camping.
Click Here to learn more about the Bongo Rx

Alternative #2: myTAP Oral Appliance

The myTAP Oral Appliance is a great CPAP Alternative for Mild to Moderate Sleep Apnea treatment. It provides a custom fit for your mouth in just 15 minutes and can be remolded at any time. The myTAP is also adjustable up to 22mm so that you can find the range that works best for you. This alternative allows you to position your bottom jaw farther forward to keep your airway open while you sleep. This is also a great alternative for people that dislike CPAP or for those who need an easier travel option for Sleep Apnea.
Click here to learn more about the myTAP

Alternative #3: Optipillows EPAP

The Optipillow alternative is another great EPAP option. This one also uses your own exhaled pressure to splint open your airways while sleeping. It is easily adjustable from 1.5cm to 15cm of EPAP . This allows you to start with low resistance and work your way up as you acclimate. It does not require a prescription. The Optipillow is available in 3 sizes so that you can find the right fit for your nose.
Click here to learn about the Optipillow
Continue reading...