If you use a CPAP machine as part of your treatment, you know how important it is to keep your airways clear so you can get a good night’s sleep.
But what happens when you’ve got nasal congestion from the flu?
Learn how you can manage congestion when using your CPAP machine and look after your nose health.
How can I use my CPAP machine when I’ve got nasal congestion?
Your CPAP machine can’t work effectively if you’re unable to breathe freely through your nose.
Congestion can also make it uncomfortable to use your CPAP machine due to mucus blocking the nasal passages 2. You can also contaminate your CPAP mask if you have a cold or flu and risk getting a secondary infection.
If you’re recovering from a cold or infection, you may also experience nasal dryness from using your CPAP machine due to the constant flow of air making it trickier for your airway to maintain necessary humidity and warmth.
This means that some people can wake up and experience 1:
- dry nose
- bleeding nose
- dry mouth
- dry throat
- cracked lips
To help clear congestion and keep your nasal passages moist, try using a non-medicated saline nasal spray like FESS.
FESS saline sprays moisturise your nasal passages, which can help ease symptoms of nasal dryness that are commonly reported in people who use CPAP machines.
Regular use of FESS nasal spray can help relieve nasal congestion and can clean and clear your blocked nose caused by excess mucus, helping you breathe easier at night and get the full benefits of your CPAP machine.
You can also try using heated tubing for your CPAP machine as this can help increase the humidity and temperature of the air to your mask. Another option is using a full-face CPAP mask as it covers your mouth and nose, making it a comfortable choice in drier climates.
This is a sponsored article in partnership with FESS. You can shop FESS products here.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
References
1CPAP.com, Nasal dryness with CPAP: Tips, Tricks and Products, accessed 30 May 2024
2Sleep insights, Care of the nose and sinusesfor CPAP users, accessed 30 May 2024