How To Go Camping When You Have Sleep Apnea

Sometimes after a long week at the office, all you want to do is get outdoors and sleep underneath the stars. Breathing in the fresh air, enjoying Mother Nature, and unplugging from the world make it easy to recharge and reconnect. While unplugging may seem like a great way to relax, it can also make you stressed if you suffer from sleep apnea.

Many patients with sleep apnea use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to help them sleep more soundly throughout the night. Unfortunately, this device needs power to operate, making navigating an overnight trip outdoors a bit tricky. Because CPAP therapy provides the patient with so much relief, they can’t imagine going even one night without their breathing equipment. 

If you rely on CPAP therapy and are trying to spend more time outdoors, ApneaMed has a few recommendations that make it possible for those with sleep apnea to go camping.

Bring Your CPAP Device With You

Although your CPAP machine might not be the most convenient equipment to pack on your travels, it is possible. If you’re camping at a campsite that offers a power source such as electrical outlets or a generator, you may be able to hook up your machine without a problem. This will make it possible for you to continue undergoing CPAP therapy while taking in the beautiful night sky. 

Invest In a Travel CPAP Machine

If you are an avid camper and are expecting to spend more than your fair share of nights sitting around a campfire, eating smores, and stargazing, your best option may be to invest in a travel CPAP machine.

 Instead of lugging your heavy breathing equipment along for the trip (which is not only inconvenient but can cause accidental and expensive damage), you’ll receive the breathing assistance you need but in a much smaller package. Travel CPAP machines are much more portable than a standard CPAP due to their size, weight, and battery-powered operation. 

Temporarily Use a CPAP Alternative

Depending on the severity of your sleep apnea, CPAP therapy might be the most effective way to keep your airways open while you sleep. However, for those with mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea, you may be able to temporarily use a CPAP alternative to treat your sleep apnea while traveling or camping.

For example, it is much easier for you to pack an oral appliance such as a mouthguard or tongue-retaining device than it is to bring your CPAP machine. An oral appliance helps keep your sleep apnea at bay by working to keep the tissues in your throat from collapsing. 

Keep in mind that this option should only be used for mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea and is not recommended for continued use after you return home if you were prescribed continuous positive airway pressure therapy.

ApneaMed Provides AutoPAP Machines for Sleep Apnea

Whether you suspect you’re suffering from sleep apnea or you’ve been diagnosed and are looking for treatment, you may be considering AutoPAP therapy. AutoPAP is an innovative positive airway pressure (PAP) machine that works by sensing the individual’s upper airway vibrations to detect any disturbances in their breathing. Using your new AutoPAP device each night, even when traveling, will help you get a good night’s sleep.