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Fighting Flu While on CPAP Therapy

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Updated: January 23, 2019

Flu Season Challenges

Influenza (Flu), a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system, can be a real hindrance to your day to day responsibilities. For those with Sleep Apnea, having the flu can be especially tough, as stuffy noses and congestion can cause difficulty with certain CPAP Mask types. To help you stay healthy through the winter months we have gathered several helpful tips for fighting flu on CPAP.

How Does Sleep Shape Immunity?

Sleep has a huge influence over the immune system since it helps to set a rhythm and regulate the process. Studies suggest sleep facilitates the migration of white blood cells that play a key role in the immunologic processes. (1) This is why it is very important for those with Sleep Apnea to continuously use their CPAP Machines. 

Now, it does take some time to build a strong immune system but it’s definitely worth it. The stronger the immune system the easier it will be to fight back the germs and bacteria that managed their way in. Fortunately, a good night’s sleep, balanced diet, daily exercise, and a low-stress level will all have a positive effect on your immune system.

Tips for Fighting Flu on CPAP Therapy

Now that you’ve had a glimpse of the benefits behind a healthy lifestyle, it’s time to walk the talk. Here’s a broad overview of a few things which will point you in the right direction.

7:00 AM Wake up at the same time every day. Make sure you’re getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night.
! Clean your CPAP equipment and allow it to air dry.
7:10 AM Take a 30-minute walk. This will help you sleep better and improve blood circulation. Disease-fighting cells, such as antibodies, will benefit as well.
8:00 AM Eat a breakfast rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Please drink only one cup of caffeine a day.
! Drink plenty of water and wash your hands constantly throughout the day.
7:00 PM Eat a light and healthy dinner. Make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need to keep your immune system strong. (2)
9:30 PM Set all devices and worries aside. Relax. Emotional stress slows down cellular activity and weakens the immune system’s response.
! Prepare your CPAP equipment for the night. Use a full face mask if you are feeling congested and scent the air with the CPAP Vapor Clear Sinus Blaster to help fight congestion.
10:00 PMGet Get great rest! If you can’t fall asleep, go somewhere quiet and return to bed once you’re sleepy.

 

(1) “Sleep and immune function” – Department of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Neurobiology,University of Tubingen, 2011 (source).
(2) “How to Boost Your Immune System” – Harvard Health Publications, Harvard Medical School, 2014 (source).

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2 Responses

  1. OMG I have that too, it’s terrible, it duibsrts sleep and you feel sometimes that you can’t breathe when you wake up. Most of the time believe it or not it comes from your sinuses, you collect all that goopy glop that slides down your sinus to your throat, at the base of the throat and you think you’re choaking to death I sympathize with you, I wish I knew what to do. The ENT said it was acid reflux and put me on nexium that helped..NOT!!!! They wanted to put me in a sleep study too, but I haven’t found the time .

  2. Zizo, we strongly recommend you try and make time for a sleep study. If you do have Sleep Apnea, a CPAP could change your life and really help your overall health. Let us know if we can help! 1-800-356-5221.

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