Using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine is a standard treatment for sleep apnea, which involves maintaining an open airway during sleep. When experiencing an illness, CPAP users often wonder if they should continue therapy. It is generally beneficial to continue CPAP use even when sick, as consistent therapy helps manage sleep apnea, but certain adjustments and precautions are necessary to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
General Considerations for Illness
Continuing CPAP therapy during illness can support the body’s increased demand for oxygen and promote better rest. Sleep apnea can worsen when ill due to factors like congestion and inflammation, making consistent CPAP use helpful in maintaining open airways.
The body works harder to fight off infections, and untreated sleep apnea can hinder this process by causing sleep disruptions and oxygen deprivation. While using CPAP during illness, some individuals might experience discomfort or a perceived worsening of symptoms. However, discontinuing therapy without medical guidance can lead to a return of sleep apnea symptoms, potentially prolonging illness or exacerbating underlying health conditions. Short breaks from CPAP therapy, such as one or two nights, are generally safe, but longer absences can lead to a return of sleep apnea symptoms and associated health risks like high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar levels.
Managing Common Symptoms
Managing symptoms like nasal congestion is important for comfortable CPAP use. Using a heated humidifier with the CPAP machine can help by adding moisture to the air, which can alleviate dryness and congestion in nasal passages. Saline nasal sprays or rinses are also effective in clearing nasal passages and reducing irritation before using the CPAP machine. Over-the-counter decongestants or antihistamines can help reduce swelling and mucus buildup, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using them, especially if other medications are being taken.
For individuals using a nasal mask, switching to a full-face mask temporarily can be beneficial when experiencing severe nasal congestion, as it allows breathing through both the nose and mouth. Elevating the head or sleeping on one’s side can also help with congestion by using gravity to improve airway openness. If facial swelling occurs if the mask fits too tightly, adjusting the mask fit can help prevent pressure marks and ensure comfort. If nausea or vomiting occurs, it is important to exercise caution; using a full-face mask with a stomach bug might increase the risk of aspiration, so medical advice should be sought in such situations.
Equipment Hygiene
Maintaining strict hygiene of CPAP equipment is important, especially during and after illness, to prevent the buildup of bacteria, mold, and other contaminants. The mask, tubing, and humidifier water chamber should be cleaned more frequently when sick, ideally daily. For daily cleaning, the mask cushion or nasal pillows should be removed and washed in warm, soapy water using a mild, unscented soap, then rinsed and air-dried away from direct sunlight.
The tubing should also be washed with warm, soapy water, rinsed thoroughly, and hung to air dry. The humidifier water chamber requires daily emptying and rinsing, and weekly cleaning with warm, soapy water. Only distilled water should be used in the humidifier to prevent mineral deposits and microbial growth. Disposable filters should be checked weekly and replaced as needed, or sooner if they appear dirty, while reusable foam filters can be washed with soap and water and thoroughly air-dried.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is important to seek medical advice if new or worsening symptoms arise while using CPAP during an illness. Indicators for consulting a healthcare professional include severe respiratory distress, persistent high fever, or significant vomiting that makes CPAP use difficult or unsafe. If the CPAP machine cannot be tolerated due to discomfort, mask fit issues, or breathing difficulties, a healthcare provider can offer adjustments or alternative solutions.
A medical professional can assess whether temporary discontinuation of CPAP is necessary or if modifications to therapy settings are appropriate. Always consult with a doctor or sleep specialist for personalized advice regarding CPAP use during sickness.