How to Be Prepared with CPAP in the Winter

Tips for Comfortable Therapy During Weather-Related CPAP Issues

Have Backup
Power Solutions

In case of a power outage during a winter storm, it is recommended to have a backup battery that is charged and ready for use.

Adjust Your Humidifier Settings

Increasing the humidifier settings in colder temperatures will allow you to sleep more comfortably if you notice dryness and irritation when the weather gets cold.

Keep Track of Your Preferred Pressure Settings

Keep a list of the humidifier settings you like for each seasonal weather change so you can make those adjustments without trial and error.

Turn Up the Heat

As well as increasing your humidifier settings, turning up your thermostat can help keep you warmer and more comfortable while asleep at night. The warmth of the ambient air will also help a CPAP humidifier operate better, providing more consistent results and fewer negative side effects.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water throughout the day will also combat dryness in the nose, throat, and mouth. You can also use water-based nasal lubricants to help stay moisturized.

Maintain Your Device Properly

Change your machine filters and follow a regular cleaning routine to prevent mold and bacteria during warmer weather.

Keep Equipment Clean

Avoid the chance of further obstructing your airwways by getting sick with a cold or other illness by keeping your CPAP equipment clean. Read about a proper replacement schedule here.

Try Heated Tubing

Heated CPAP tubing will keep the air warm and more comfortable as it travels from a CPAP machine to a mask.

Traveling with CPAP to Different Climates

When traveling, you may encounter different temperatures and environments than what you are typically used to. Before arriving at your travel destination, prepare accordingly for the weather you are about to be in.

How Do Winter Months Affect CPAP Therapy?

Dry Air

Dry air irritates the passageways, including the nose, mouth, and throat
The change in air may make it uncomfortable to use your CPAP machine because of the lack of moisture, potentially reducing CPAP compliance.

Nasal Congestion

Dry air in the winter may cause nasal congestion, making it harder to breathe through the nose.
You may need to adjust your humidifier settings or switch to a full face mask.

Higher Humidifier Settings

To combat discomfort during colder months, making adjustments to your humidifier settings may be necessary.
A CPAP humidifier will add more moisture to therapy air, making treatment more effective and comfortable.

Power Outages

Some winter storms can cause the power to go out, interrupting CPAP treatment.
Make sure you always have a charged-up CPAP battery or travel CPAP machine on hand in case of a power outage.

All Seasonal Changes with CPAP Therapy

Winter

Air is dryer and colder in the winter months, which increases dryness and irritation in the throat, nose, and mouth.
Adjusting the humidification of your CPAP machine can add more moisture to therapy air, combatting dryness and providing more comfortable therapy.

Summer

Air in the summer is more hot and humid, increasing condensation.
Condensation can cause water droplets to accumulate in the tubing and cause rainout
Lowering your humidifier settings will reduce condensation and rainout for more comfortable treatment.
Learn more about CPAP therapy in the summer here.

Spring & Fall

The temperature in the spring and fall changes often, which results in multiple dew point levels. If you notice your therapy is too dry or too wet, adjust your settings accordingly.