Although you may want to stop using CPAP therapy while you have a cold, you do not have to! If you can tolerate therapy during your illness, you may find a benefit to your sleep quality.
If you decide to use CPAP therapy during this time, it is important to remain diligent about cleaning your supplies. Keeping your CPAP equipment clean and sterile can ensure you are not risking reinfection and even stave off future infections.
Tips on how to use CPAP if you have a cold:
* Keeping your head elevated while sleeping can keep the airway open and improve breathing. As well, any buildup of mucus will be able to drain more easily allowing you to get some sleep.
* Adding heated tubing to your CPAP therapy along with your humidifier can reduce irritation and inflammation along the airway and help with nasal congestion. This can also reduce the risk of bacterial colonization.
* In some cases, switching to a mask that covers both mouth and nose, even just temporarily, can improve breathing through the night.
Following these tips may help to improve comfort and aid in a speedy recovery.
