Your CPAP Survival During Allergy Season

For those undergoing CPAP therapy, allergy season can be a nightmare. Not only do allergies come with unpleasant symptoms, like sneezing, itchy nose, watery eyes, and congestion, but they also can make using a CPAP machine consistently very difficult.

Allergies can also worsen the symptoms of sleep apnea, which can lead to chronic tiredness, soreness, and headaches. Here are a few tips to help you get through allergy season and get the rest you deserve.

1. Regularly Clean and Replace CPAP Components

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your CPAP machine and its parts ensure that your machine is working properly. It also helps you prevent the buildup of any bacteria, mold, or funguses that can make you sick.

Thoroughly clean and sanitize your tubing, mask, and dehumidifier chamber in warm water with mild soap daily; this will prevent the buildup of any allergens that accumulate while you sleep. You can also clean your CPAP machine components with vinegar and water. Replacing a dirty disposable air filter or washing and rinsing a renewable one will prevent the buildup of dust and debris. If a part ever appears worn or breaks, replace it as soon as possible.

2. Keep Yourself and Your Surroundings Clean

Consider taking a shower when you arrive home or before going to bed. We bring inside all sorts of allergens during the day, and they can linger on our hair, faces, and bodies. Thoroughly washing will reduce the amount of pollen and dust that can make your allergies worse at bedtime.

Keeping your bedroom and living space clean helps reduce the buildup of allergens year-round, but can especially help alleviate symptoms at the peak of allergy season. Changing and washing your sheets, pillowcases, and any furniture coverings can help get rid of dust, dead skin, pet dander, and pollen that can worsen allergy symptoms. Dusting and sanitizing both commonly-used and hard-to-reach surfaces reduces the spread of germs while helping you breathe easier.

3. Use a Different Type of Face Mask

When allergies cause congestion, they make it difficult to breathe through your nose. When this occurs, consider switching to a full-face mask. This gives you the option to breathe through your mouth until your nose clears up.

4. Take Antihistamines to Manage Allergy Symptoms

Allergy medications, or antihistamines, are extremely effective in controlling allergy symptoms. Both over-the-counter and prescription-strength allergy medicine, especially nasal spray, can help you breathe easier and clear out your sinuses quickly.

However, drowsiness is a common side effect of antihistamines, so be sure to avoid driving or other activities until you know how you react. Always look for medicines labeled for daytime use, and consult your doctor before taking any new medications.

5. Consult Your Doctor

In addition to ensuring that medications are safe, your doctor can provide you with useful advice on how to combat seasonal allergies. They might be able to suggest other methods and tips that can help alleviate your problem symptoms, such as trying different machines and products or undergoing lifestyle changes.