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+--- Thread: cpap machine with a head cold (/Thread-cpap-machine-with-a-head-cold)
cpap machine with a head cold - rp1scooter - 02-19-2014
Should you continue to use your cpap machine while suffering the symptoms of a head cold. Will the use prolong a cold or extend into other respetory problems? thx.
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - me50 - 02-19-2014
(02-19-2014, 07:34 AM)rp1scooter Wrote: Should you continue to use your cpap machine while suffering the symptoms of a head cold. Will the use prolong a cold or extend into other respetory problems? thx.
Unless your doctor tells you to stop using your machine, don't stop.
Just clean your mask and hose and maybe your water chamber more than you normally would. If you have a humidifier, it would hopefully help with your head cold. You may have to change the type of mask you use for comfort purposes.
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - Bama Rambler - 02-19-2014
I had a head cold last week and continued to use the machine throughout it. Since I use a FFM (and am a mouth breather anyway) it didn't make any difference in the treatment. It was actually easier to breathe with the mask on.
I soaked the mask each morning just for my peace of mind.
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - trish6hundred - 02-19-2014
Hi rp1scooter,When I have a head cold, I keep using my machine.
There are sinus wrinses you can use to help with clearing out your head.
I think there is one by Neomed that comes in a bottle, but hang in there for more suggestions.
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - brianwood619 - 02-19-2014
I had a head cold last week as well, i upped the humidity on my machine whiile i was sick and it made it comfortable to breathe.
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - PaulaO2 - 02-19-2014
As the others have suggested, use a nasal rinse (I use the bottle), turn up the humidifier, and sleep well.
There's no need for extra cleaning as you can't get sick from your own germs. I do, however, wash my nasal pillows more just because they get gross. I've used mine through colds, sinus infections, and two bouts of bad bronchitis. The humidification of the CPAP made it soooo much better.
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - Franklyspeaking - 02-19-2014
(02-19-2014, 07:34 AM)rp1scooter Wrote: Should you continue to use your cpap machine while suffering the symptoms of a head cold. Will the use prolong a cold or extend into other respetory problems? thx.
My son has the nasal mask and he had to stop because he said he couldn't breathe through his mouth and his throat was very raw and sore.
(02-19-2014, 01:56 PM)Franklyspeaking Wrote:(02-19-2014, 07:34 AM)rp1scooter Wrote: Should you continue to use your cpap machine while suffering the symptoms of a head cold. Will the use prolong a cold or extend into other respetory problems? thx.
My son has the nasal mask and he had to stop because he said he couldn't breathe through his mouth and his throat was very raw and sore.
I meant he can't breathe through his nose
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - Homerec130 - 02-19-2014
I am fighting a sinus cold with drainage going down the throat causing a very dry, non-productive hacking cough. My doctor said it was up to me if I wanted to use my machine or not. I tried it, but after the first night, I was still hacking so bad, I couldn't get to sleep and had to take the mask off. I have tried it each night to see if I could get it to work, but have the same results - get about 20 minutes and no more. I have also cranked the humidifier up higher than its usual setting, but that doesn't seem to help. I am using a nasal spray as well as taking prescription cough suppressants. As you can imagine, I am miserable between the constant coughing and the lack of sleep (mostly from coughing).
When I finally get over the bulk of this and back on the machine, I will be swapping over to the new mask and hose (just got it before the cold).
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - Shastzi - 02-19-2014
I'm just getting over a cold and it seems to work just as well. I turn up the humidity and I can actually breathe easier by morning.
If there is any coughing I get out the robitussin DM.
Cheers!
RE: cpap machine with a head cold - PaulaO2 - 02-19-2014
I suggest you try the nasal rinse right before bed.
It's easy to use. I prefer the bottle and the pre-made packets. I rinse out my nose, put on the mask, and go right to sleep. The pressure of the machine keeps the nasal passage opened.
Every once in a while I wake up with a single clogged nostril, the one that is down toward the mattress. I roll over and go back to sleep or I get up and use the rinse again.
I have bad seasonal allergies and am glad I do not have to go without my CPAP while suffering through them!