CPAP tips and Coronavirus FAQs for Sleep Apnea Patients

Disinfecting your CPAP equipmentThe American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) is collecting resources for patients and the public about sleep, CPAP therapy, obstructive sleep apnea, and the novel coronavirus also known as COVID-19.

The AASM encourages CPAP users and the entire public to follow the CDC tips on how to prevent getting sick. You also can check and use the Coronavirus Symptom Self-Checker from the CDC. The AASM has not provided any specific medical advice. You should discuss your health and medical condition with a local medical provider or sleep therapist. Here are some commons FAQs related to coronavirus and obstructive sleep apnea.

Should I use CPAP if I have COVID-19 Symptoms but cannot Self-isolate?

If you have symptoms of the novel coronavirus but cannot isolate yourself in a separate bedroom, it would be best to contact your medical provider. Request your medical provider to tell you whether there are short-term interventions or alternative treatments for sleep apnea that could help you recover from the coronavirus.

If I have the Coronavirus, will My CPAP be Helpful for my Breathing? Or can CPAP make the Coronavirus get worse?

If you have the coronavirus, it would be best to continue using CPAP while sleeping alone in a separate bedroom. There is no evidence that using CPAP can lead to the coronavirus to get worse.

If I have the Coronavirus, how should I Disinfect and Sanitize my CPAP Mask and Hose?

Alternative treatments for sleep apnea The CDC suggests that you should clean and disinfect your CPAP equipment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The instructions for CPAP masks and hoses typically include regular cleaning with soap and water.

Is it Safe to Use CPAP if I do not have COVID-19 Symptoms?

If you have the coronavirus, you can spread it to others before you have symptoms. Even when you do not have symptoms of the coronavirus, you may want to use CPAP and sleep in a separate bedroom during this public health emergency.

What Should I Use in my CPAP Humidifier if Distilled Water is Unavailable in my Area?

According to Resmed, an optimal humidifier performance requires distilled water for efficiency. That is because most or all of its minerals have been removed, preventing mineral buildup in the humidifier tub. Tap or bottled water may also be used. It will not harm the device or pose a risk to patients who use CPAP devices. However, it will require more rigorous humidifier cleaning to prevent excess mineral buildup in the tub.

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