It is not easy for a person having sleep apnea to travel but the following tips can help. It is possible to sleep and stay healthy when traveling provided you are well equipped for the trip, have a travel CPAP, and other necessary apparatus. Helping you gain knowledge on travelling with Sleep Apnea and know the right travel CPAP machine for you.
Understanding Travel CPAP Machines
Travel CPAP machine is a lightweight and easy to carry equipment that is used to treat sleep apnea in different locations. However, different from the conventional CPAP devices, travelling CPAPs are lighter and compact in size hence they are some times equipped with extra peripherals that may make them suitable for use during travel. They are highly portable and long-lasting so that sleep therapy does not have to be interrupted when the time comes for moving things around.
Key Features of Travel CPAP Machines
Portability: The first and the most obvious advantage of travel CPAP is that is more portable than a full size and weightier standard model. In as much as the compactness of the machine is ideal its portability should enable it to be fit and stored in a carry-on luggage or travel bag without much hustle.
Power Options: Travel CPAP machines are usually dual powered usually have the capability to be run on AC power, batteries and even a DC outlet that is usually found in vehicles. Most models can be used with international voltage, which is perfect for travelling to different areas of the world.
Humidification: Most travel CPAP devices have built-in or available features of the humidifiers to minimize the dryness and inflammation of the tracks. Certain ones employ waterless modes whereby the machines do not require water and are not messy.
Noise Level: A machine that is less noisy is recommended especially for lodgings in hostels, motels, and other places where people are many. Look at the noise levels as regards the noise to be produced once one is in the set accommodation and those to be produced by others in the same accommodation.
Ease of Use: One of the factors that can affect the usability of your travel CPAP is easy to understand controls and visibility screen. A few models also provide smartphone applications to control the settings and observe the state.
Preparing for Your Trip
Travel with sleep apnea requires adequate preparation so that the individual does not encounter too many challenges on the way. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Check Airline Policies: It is advisable to contact your airline before traveling and ask them the rules regarding carriage of and the use of a CPAP machine. Generally, most airlines permit CPAP machines to be carried on board and some airlines can offer sockets to charge the machines during a flight.
Pack Smart: Take travel-sized CPAP machine in its carrying case; also include other accessories like mask, tube and power cord. You should always carry around a pack of batteries in case you run out of power either from your battery or from where you draw your power from.
Carry Documentation: Altogether, it is important to have a copy of the prescription for the CPAP and a letter from any doctor as to the necessity of the equipment. This is quite useful when experiencing difficulties with the airport authorities or even customs.
Know Your Destination: Check the electrical outlets and voltage compatibility when you are at the destination. You may require a plug adapter, or voltage converter depending on the region and your travel CPAP machine.
Stay Organized: You should store your CPAP accessories in a specific bag or pouch even if you may need only a mask when traveling because the other accessories such as humidifier and cushions should also be accessible and organized.
Using Your Travel CPAP Machine
Using a travel CPAP machine is similar to using your standard CPAP device, but there are a few additional considerations:
Set Up: When you get to the hotel, it is recommended that you arrange your traveling CPAP machine as you do at home. Check that power source is correct and that the machine is plugged in the right manner.
Adjust Settings: Certain travel models may need some modifications depending on altitudes and/or humidity of the area in which a person stays. When these modifications have to be made, one has to adhere strictly with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Stay Hydrated: Thus, flying, as well as fluctuations in weather conditions, lead to dehydration that interferes with sleep therapy. Stay well-hydrated and possibly use a humidifier when using the CPAP equipment to avoid drying of the airways.
Monitor Your Therapy: Check your sleep therapy and make sure that it is still functional when you are on vacation using monitoring devices such as the smartphone apps.
Conclusion
That is why sleeping with sleep apnea does not have to be so cumbersome as once thought. With the correct type of travel CPAP machine and proper planning, it is possible to keep up the sleep therapy habit and get the best night’s sleep irrespective of the traveller’s destination. Collecting the proper gear and thinking through the logistics ahead of time, sleep apnea will not be walking away winner for long travels.
