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CPAP and Travel
It may have seemed like a long time coming but summertime is finally around the corner! And you may have a lot of summer travel plans on your mind. As you prepare for your summer travels, one thing you’ll need to think about is how to deal with packing your CPAP machine when you go away, especially if you will be gone for a night or more. Keeping up with your CPAP therapy is very important, even when you are away from home and should not be neglected for even just one night. As much of a nuisance that this may sound like, travelling with a CPAP machine IS possible! Sleep technology has come a long way in recent years and you shouldn’t have to miss out on travelling just because you use a CPAP machine, so there are ways that you can take it with you. It involves preparing in advance and using some extra caution when you travel. Here are a few tips for travelling with a CPAP machine: If you are flying: always carry on your CPAP machine instead of leaving it in your checked baggage. You run the risk of it being damaged in transit and we all know it’ll be an expensive replacement at that, so it’s not worth the risk. If you plan on using your machine during your flight, be sure to check with your airline ahead of time about any restrictions that may be in place. Also be sure that there is a sufficient power outlet nearby or that your machine has enough battery life to last for the duration of the flight Always carry your CPAP prescription and paperwork with you, just in case you are ever questioned by a security officer or flight attendant, or if you run into some heath issues away from home. Better safe than sorry! Be sure to bring any spare batteries or plug adaptors that you may need for your machine. If you are camping, or going to a place with no electrical outlets, be sure to bring extra battery packs that are fully charged If you travel frequently, think about investing in a smaller, travel friendly CPAP machine. The Z1 travel machine is small, quiet and efficient. You can find it on sale at papsmart.com now, but only for a limited time! All in all, travelling with a CPAP machine just involves some careful preparation and a cautious eye on the road. Your doctor may also have some tips for travelling with your machine that may be helpful. Ready to start or upgrade your sleep therapy? Shop Reliable CPAP Machines to find the best devices for consistent, comfortable sleep support. View the Breas Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
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Keeping up with your CPAP routine throughout the holidays
wp:paragraph It’s that time of the year again! For many of us, the Christmas holidays often involves spending time with loved ones, and yes, indulging in some stuff that you may not normally be into during the year. This includes alcohol, delicious food, lots of stress and many late nights. As fun (or not) as it may be, all of this can contribute to some terrible nights of sleeping, which can result in some grinchy-like behaviour in the morning. /wp:paragraph wp:paragraph There may be a lot going on for you during the holidays, however you can still have a great time AND sleep well each night. Here are a few tips for staying into your normal sleep routines during the holiday season. /wp:paragraph wp:list Be careful with how much alcohol you drink: as nice as it may be to let loose at that office party or on Christmas Eve with the family, having too much to drink can lead to you having a terrible sleep. You may be falling asleep faster than normal, however your sleep apnea symptoms can get significantly worse from drinking. It is okay to indulge in some not so healthy foods, but don’t overdo it: it may be especially tempting to indulge on some sweets after dinner, but experts say that eating too much before bedtime can keep you awake at night, especially anything containing caffeine or sugar. That doesn’t mean that you can’t treat yourself at all, but know where to stop. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day: maybe you’re spending a few nights away from home, or maybe you have guests that have come to stay with you. But keeping up with your sleeping routines is very important to sleeping well. Late nights are okay, but try not to go to bed any later than an hour past your bedtime. Try not to stress yourself out: we all know that the holidays can be a stressful time, between last minute Christmas shopping, cooking for family gatherings and more. But did you know that stress is a huge contributing factor for poor sleep? Be sure to take time for yourself to de-stress, even if it means vegging on the couch and watching your favourite Christmas movie. Get some fresh air: whether the ground is white where you live, or whether there’s barely a snowflake on the ground, indulging in some natural daylight helps your circadian levels which in turn can help you to sleep better at night. Stay consistent with your CPAP machine each night: if you think that just one night without your CPAP machine will be nothing, think again. Your sleep apnea symptoms will worsen and you will be in for some sleepless nights. It’s really not worth it at this time of the year. /wp:list
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5 Tips for Travelling with CPAP
There’s nothing more relaxing in life than getting away for the weekend. Living with CPAP should not stop you from enjoying your holiday time. Travel can easily be accomplished and there are many ways to make the travel experience as stress-free as possible. Here are 5 tips for travelling with a CPAP machine: Pack your CPAP very carefully and be sure that it will not get damaged in transit. Most CPAP units come with a travel case, which will be handy for carrying your CPAP mask, and accessories. Remember to empty the water from your humidifier before you pack. If you’re flying, be prepared to take your CPAP machine in your carry-on baggage. And yes you will have to take it through security, but no need to worry too much as security personnel have seen these machines many times before. It also wouldn’t hurt to check with your airline to see if they have any restrictions or policies related to portable medical devices. Do not place the CPAP machine in your checked bags. There is too much of a risk that it will get damaged and chances are your airline will probably not reimburse you for the cost. Besides, if your bag is lost in transit, you will lose your CPAP machine altogether. If you plan on using your CPAP for sleeping on an overnight flight (or on a train, bus or car ride) have a plan for battery life for the length of the flight, plus three extra hours to accommodate for any delays that may occur. Think about investing in a smaller CPAP unit that is specifically made for travel. Especially if you like to go away a lot, or if you frequently travel for work. It is worth the money in the end, not to mention the convenience. Shop Travel-Sized CPAP Machines and Accessories
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