Every year, millions of Australians are affected by sleep apnea. When you have this illness, you frequently stop breathing at night. Snoring is not a universal sign of sleep apnea, despite being one of the most common symptoms. Because of this, a sleep study is frequently necessary for a precise diagnosis.

The Australian Sleep Apnea Association claims that serious health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke can arise from untreated sleep apnea. This article explains the significance of sleep apnea therapy.

Positive Continuous Airway Pressure or CPAP is the abbreviation for this device. A CPAP is a portable device that comes with a mask and an extendable hose. The mask is covering your face while you dream. The mask delivers oxygen and provides a smooth, steady airflow. This pressure keeps your airways open all night long.

Since the tubes are long enough to allow you to fall asleep and the gadget doesn’t make loud noises on its own, The American Academy of Sleep Medicine won’t wake you or your wife up.

Useful CPAP Machine Tips

It might take some time to get used to your CPAP machines. Remember that this is a change in lifestyle and that it may take some time. The Australian Academy of Sleep Medicine offers the following recommendations:

• Start wearing your mask sporadically throughout the evening. When you read or watch TV, for example, wear it.
• Use CPAP treatment each night. This is essential for both its effectiveness and your acclimation, as well. Your body has a harder time adjusting if you don’t use it often.
• If you choose to take a nap, use your CPAP machines.
• Your CPAP should feel natural when you begin to drowse; if it takes a while, be patient.
• Make sure your mask fits snugly; a good fit is essential for a successful treatment. We’ll be pleased to help you locate a compatible match.
• If the pressure is too high, use the CPAP “ramp” mode.
• Continue to use your CPAP machines consistently throughout the night.
• A particular cushion designed to work with CPAP machines can be necessary.
• Frequently disinfect the tools
• Don’t be scared to ask questions.

Avoid Common Errors 

Incorrect Mask Size

Working together with your doctor and CPAP provider will ensure that you have the appropriate CPAP mask. The ideal style and size mask for someone else may not suit you since each person is different.

Dry Nose

Make sure your mask is a good fit for you. A leaky mask could cause your nose to get dry. The mask does not fit correctly if you must continually tighten it.

In a CPAP system, a heated humidifier is connected to an air pressure machine. There may be a set level of humidification. A nasal saline spray may help with dry, stuffy nose when it’s time for bed.

Leaky mask

If your mask is leaky or inadequate, you won’t obtain the full air pressure and you can have skin sensitivity. As air from the mask was blown into your eyes, they would get dry or runny.

It is possible to make belts and pillows more comfortable. Make sure the device does not sit too high on your nasal bridge or, if it does, does not blow air directly into your eyes.

Dry mouth

If you use your mouth to breathe while you sleep, certain CPAP machines could exacerbate the situation. When using a nasal mask, using a chin strap will help keep the mouth closed and reduce air leakage.

A face-covering mask that shields your mouth and nose may also be helpful. It could also be good to use a CPAP humidifier that is connected to the air pressure device.

Make use of these suggestions when you are traveling.

Swimsuit—check. Verify the neck pillow. Check, check, check: hiking boots, sunscreen, and a good book. The last thing you need to bring on your dream trip is your handy CPAP machines. 

If you’ve never traveled with your CPAP machines before, you may feel a little anxious. Is it fragile? Will it be hard for me to go through airport security? Should I check it in with my other luggage or carry it on the flight? Will it occupy a large amount of space in my luggage? No need to panic; you surely have a lot of questions. 

We can provide you with the answers. Here are some ideas to help you travel more easily, CPAP and all.

Do not check your CPAP machines.

Have you ever experienced an airline missing a piece of your luggage? You know how irritating it can be to be without a phone charger, a pair of tennis shoes, or your go-to pajamas if you’ve ever been in that situation. Imagine how uncomfortable it would be if, during a layover, your CPAP machines was sent to Des Moines, Iowa instead of Cape Town, South Africa with you because it was put in a suitcase that was ultimately lost. 

Since CPAP machines are medically necessary, airlines don’t allow them as carry-on luggage, therefore you should be able to store one in the overhead bins. Before departing, confirm that there are no unusual restrictions, such as a required doctor’s note, with your specific airline.

Prepare Yourself for Security

The CPAP machine has to be removed from its shell and placed into a container before being run through the X-ray machine. The face mask and tubing for the CPAP machine, however, may be left inside. If you’re worried about germs that could be lurking in security bins, it’s a good idea to put the equipment in a clear plastic bag before it goes through the X-ray. As part of an Explosive Trace Detection test, a TSA agent may need to swab your CPAP machines and then place the swab into a particular machine to check for explosive residue. This extra security step is being implemented to further ensure the safety of all passengers and flight crew.

A voltage converter

If you are traveling overseas, you certainly packed your wall outlet adapter. Since American outlets have two prongs, your CPAP machines cannot be connected into an outlet that is any other form. Another important issue is that different countries may have different electricity frequency. 

The United States uses 120 V and 60 Hz, whereas Indonesia uses 230 V and 50 Hz and Japan uses 100 V and 50 Hz/60 Hz. If you try to plug your gadget into an outlet with a higher voltage, it will probably be damaged and become completely useless. 

In other instances, a lower voltage may render the apparatus completely inoperable. You may purchase a voltage adapter to ensure that the voltage disparity won’t damage your CPAP machines if your equipment has a dial that allows you to manually modify the voltage before flying.

Book a flight with outlets if you want to nap while flying.

If you expect to sleep while traveling, utilize your CPAP. In first or business class, the majority of airlines provide power outlets so you may plug in your gadget and get some rest while travelling. Find out which airlines provide power plugs in economy. In order to confirm that you have a seat with a socket for your device, be sure to call your airline before making your reservation.

Consider getting a portable CPAP device.

If your CPAP machines is too big or you think it would be difficult to transport it to and from the plane and your hotel, think about getting a travel-sized one. They are more portable and often come with batteries, which may come in handy if you wish to go camping or go to an area without electricity. Keep in mind that most insurances only cover one CPAP machine, so you could be required to foot the bill.

Your sleep apnea shouldn’t stop you from seeing the destinations on your travel dream list. You may relax and enjoy your vacation knowing you have the resources necessary to manage your sleep apnea by using our suggestions to make bringing your CPAP machines on the road simple.