Take good care of yourself by following the guidelines
First of all, try to avoid catching the virus or passing it on (unintentionally). It is, therefore, necessary for everyone to follow the guidelines of the government about keeping distance, washing hands, avoiding social contacts, staying at home, etc. Especially if you have respiratory complaints. This is in the interest of your own safety, the safety of the people around you and helps not to overload care.
Just because you’re an sleep apnea patient doesn’t mean you’re more likely to catch the coronavirus compared to someone who doesn’t have apnea. Like everyone else, you only have a greater chance of not following those guidelines.
CPAP (Mask treatment) does pose a risk to spread corona
People who use mask treatment (CPAP or BiPAP) and have a coronavirus infection can easily transfer this to the environment (people and also the surfaces in the bedroom such as the bedside table). This is due to the increased droplet dispersion when using the mask treatment. Of course, this risk also applies to healthcare personnel when treating corona.
Infection prevention precautions especially important for sleep apnea patient
There are many reasons for practicing the right preventive practices and not getting infected. Because many apnea patients are and often extra vulnerable when infected and are therefore at greater risk.Because they are older on average and often have more other conditions that corona has a direct effect on.Such as lung and heart complaints, diabetes, and overweight.
Wash your hands regularly. Especially before you go to sleep. You could contaminate yourself if you touch your head with your hands. Clean your machines regularly as it should.
Advice from sleep associations
- In the case of respiratory complaints, it is not necessary to stop treatment with a CPAP unless, for example, nasal complaints make this impossible.
- If for any reason you are admitted to hospital, follow the hospital’s instructions. Always bring your own CPAP to the hospital.
- Follow all hygiene instructions, including when using your device.
- The start of a new CPAP treatment is in consultation with your practitioner.
