For people suffering from sleep apnea, a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is a constant companion for effective sleep therapy. You depend on CPAP for proper management of sleep apnea. However, traveling with a conventional CPAP machine is a daunting task. In this article, we’ll discuss the most commonly asked questions regarding travel with a CPAP machine. Plus, we’ll also throw light on the Transcend Micro portable CPAP machine that has revolutionized CPAP therapy.
Is it necessary to use a CPAP machine each night?
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and started using CPAP, you need to use it regularly every night. Otherwise, you may experience difficulty in breathing. While this therapy is different for everyone, certain symptoms, like fatigue and morning headaches, may return if you go without CPAP even for one night. You are so, considering regular therapy.
Will my machine’s air pressure change from country to country?
Well, there is no particular answer for this and it depends on your machine. If you are living somewhere in the mountains, the air pressure is less in the atmosphere, and due to this your machine may give less pressure. Since sleep varies as per the altitude, the general effects are minimal. However, you still need to use CPAP every night even if it is not at the optimal pressure.
Can I use CPAP on a ship or a plane?
Since power outlets are available on long-haul flights and cruise ships, you can use CPAP machines with outlets. Besides that, you can consider carrying a Transcend Micro – a portable travel CPAP machine – with you. Since it is compact and runs without a power outlet, you can easily use it on a plane or a ship without hassle. However, the airline needs a doctor’s certificate if you travel with CPAP. So, do carry with you a valid certification for your equipment.
Can I use CPAP while camping?
You can use CPAP if you have better access to usual mains power. So, camping at a powered site with a machine is doable. However, some people are concerned about colder air than at home. In this case, you need to consult with your supplier before going camping. They may tell you to use a heated humidifier or run CPAP tubes under bed clothes to keep them warm. Or simply bring a portable Transcend Micro CPAP device with you that works without an outlet and comes with an integrated humidifier to keep air warm for breathing.
How long can a CPAP run on a battery?
It depends on your CPAP machine and the air pressure it provides. An older device generally consumes more power. With rising pressure, they are likely to consume more power. But modern CPAP devices, like Transcend, run up to 14 hours due to its Micro PowerAway CPAP Battery (one of the lightest and smallest batteries available on the market). So, it is a good way to keep up with your sleep apnea therapy no matter where you go.
Can I use a heated humidifier with an inverter and battery?
Generally, older humidifiers are likely to consume more energy. So, it is a bad idea to consider this. When you use an inverter, you won’t be able to control its heat. However, some advanced CPAP machines can be used with an inverter. But consult your supplier before using it with a battery (if you have to use it in certain conditions). They may even recommend certain alternatives that go well in this interim.
Can I use a battery power source if I use oxygen with CPAP?
Unfortunately, it isn’t a good idea to use battery power if you use oxygen with CPAP. When you use oxygen, a spark from your device can lead to fire. If you are using oxygen, you can consult with your specialist about any risks and what alternative CPAP accessories to use for safety.
Are there any special batteries available for CPAP?
Certain manufacturers make batteries specifically for their devices. The Lithium-ion sealed batteries are usually approved for aircraft usage. These can often last for around 12-13 hours on CPAP, around 6 hours on humidifier and CPAP, and around 3-4 hours on humidifier, CPAP, and heated tubing. If a mask leaks or during higher pressures, the battery won’t run out faster. During a mask leak, a machine will work harder and use more energy. You can consider using an advanced Transcend Micro CPAP that can run up to 14 hours due to its Micro PowerAway Battery.
Is it a good decision to consult a CPAP supplier?
Yes, you need to always consult your CPAP machine supplier before using any non-mains power supplies. Or you need to use an approved battery, like Micro PowerAway Battery of Transcend for better performance.
Conclusion
These are some of the most asked questions related to traveling with CPAP. Hope you are not clear of most of the things to keep in mind when you consider traveling with CPAP devices in Australia or any other country. For the best decision, consider consulting a CPAP machine supplier for smooth and effective sleep therapy.
