The use of travel CPAP machine can be a life saver to individuals who require sleep therapy at any time. It allows you to continue keeping your routine when you are not at home, however, it might also bring the burden of taking care of your device. Unless you take good care of your CPAP, it might not do the job, and it can impact the quality of your sleep. Fortunately, you can maintain your travel CPAP clean and operational anywhere as long as you have a few tips.
Keeping Your Device Clean
Hygiene is one of the most crucial factors when using a travel CPAP. Because you are going to various locations, it would easily pick up dust or germs in hotel rooms or any other place. It should become a routine to clean the outer part of the machine with a soft damp cloth every day. Wash your mask and tubing using mild soap and water daily and dry them airing. In case of longer journeys it is a good idea to carry along a small travel-size brush or wipes which is specifically designed to clean the CPAP. This makes the whole clean and minimizes chances of infection or skin irritation.
Water and Humidifier Care
A small humidifier is available in many travel CPAPs. Distilled water is highly required since tap water may deposit minerals, thus influencing the working of the machine. When you are staying in a place a few days, be sure to empty the chamber of water every day and leave it to dry before filling it. You should not leave water in the chamber when not activity is taking place because stagnant water may turn out to be a breeding ground to bacteria.
In case you have noticed that hotel rooms are especially dry, you can change the level of humidity so that you could feel comfortable. Other travel CPAP devices can easily be changed and the appropriate setting can be found by avoiding dry nose and throat during sleep.
Packing and Protection
In case of relocation, it is important to ensure that you carry your travel CPAP. Put a travel case with padding to avoid damage during transportation. It is preferable to keep the mask, tubing, power cord and machine in different compartments. This avoids the tangling effect and allows making a quicker and easier setup in your destination. Fly with it as a carry-on to ensure that it is not jostled or damaged in the baggage held.
Routine Checks and Adjustments
Although you are on the road, make a couple of minutes each night to ensure that your travel CPAP is functioning well. Make sure that the mask is tight-fitting and that the tubing does not leak. Check for noise that is not usual in the machine and monitor the filters where necessary. Minor changes in strap tension or placing tubes can help avoid discomfort and continue with therapy.
It is actually important to be consistent. The habit of missing out on nights may have an impact on your health and energy, thus it is important to maintain your routine even when you are on a vacation. The time it takes to keep your CPAP in shape will be sure that you get the maximum out of your therapy no matter where you are.
Traveling with Confidence
It does not need to have a complex maintenance of a travel CPAP. Your device will always be in the best condition regardless of your location with care about cleaning, water, safe packing, and regular checks. Such actions will enable you to travel without any fear, as your therapy will be sure and effective. Your travel CPAP ensures that you sleep well when you are not at home and the sleep is good to ensure that you are well rested when you are away.