The air is more humid in the summer, making CPAP therapy a little easier because the airway is more comfortable. However, the air dries out in the fall and winter, causing airway discomfort, congestion, and an increased risk of cold and flu symptoms. In this blog post, our team at SecondWind CPAP is here to provide you with a few tips on how to use your CPAP machine during the winter. Learn more and get in touch with our CPAP shop today!
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Warm up the Air You Breathe
Many current models of CPAP machines have heated accessories or built-in temperature control. In the wintertime, temperatures in your bedroom can drop, and when the air coming out of your CPAP machine is also cold it can cause your body to dilate the blood vessels in your nose. This can narrow your airways and cause you to have interrupted sleep and wake up with clogged nasal passages.
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No Dry Air!
Humidity levels usually drop in the winter and the air in your home can dry out. Dry air is one of the biggest reasons sleep apnea can worsen, and can cause an increase in morning headaches and sore throats. Many refurbished CPAP machines come with built-in water reservoirs that allow humidity through your CPAP tubing to moisten the air you breathe while you sleep.
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Clean Your Equipment
Dust, dead skin cells, bacteria, germs, and other contaminants can accumulate because your CPAP mask touches your face. The air also cycles through multiple parts of your machine, so you’ll want to make sure you’re wiping down your accessories at least once every day or two. SecondWind carries numerous cleaning products that can help keep your CPAP machine clean (and your body healthy).
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Keep Using It When You’re Sick
Unfortunately, the winter months tend to see an increase in illness. The best thing you can give your body to fight off sickness is uninterrupted rest. Many wintertime illnesses make you feel stuffy and more congested, so make sure you’re continuing to use your CPAP machine — it can help break up mucus and congestion while you sleep to combat your exacerbated sleep apnea symptoms.
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SecondWind CPAP has been recommended by the American Sleep Apnea Association, and we work hard to help you guarantee a restful night’s sleep during the winter months. Get in touch with us to see how we can help you wake up feeling better.