Continental won't let me use CPAP on plane

[Snoredog]

they can pretty much do what they want in the name of security. I wouldn't expect much sympathy from Continental especially flying out of Newark.

You are likely to have fewer events sleeping in a sitting position anyway, on that long of a flight you should probably be getting up and walking around every couple hours anyway to prevent any blood clots from forming in your legs from DVT.

[RichCMH]

Several topic directions here:
1. Continental is denying use of CPAP inflight.
I say keep trying with this number 800.932.2732 (800 WE CARE2), it's listed as Customer Service number on Continental's website.

2. The CRO is the person at the airport and is there to resolve problems and make sure regulations/policies are followed.
This person has nothing to do with using the cpap inflight. They are the "go to" person at the gate if there is a problem with for example carry-on bag issues.

3. Sleeping in upright position and not using cpap.
I would ask the doctor.

I wish I could help more....

[billbolton]

I would call the "CRO" mentioned above by tangents and offer to provide them with materials documenting the dangers of Sleep Apnea ... just in case they needed to refer to if they heard from my lawyer if I didn't wake up at the end of the flight....

That's a very dangerous way to play it!

Unfortunately, the airline can just deny you boarding due to your serious medical condition, or put so many conditions on travel (such as you must be accompanied by a nurse or whatever) that it defeats the purpose of even asking.

Cheers,

Bill

[Janine]

I really think the too noisy thing is ridiculous. I would rather sit next to a cpap machine than a screaming child/baby, loud talker, snorer... How can a medical necessity be optional? One more noise on a jet is nothing. You get used to it all...

[wog]

Is it really that big of a deal to just skip using CPAP whilst on the plane? I guess I don't understand how this is so important to make such a fuss. Thousands of people with undiagnosed OSA get through night after night without any therapy. What will happen if CPAP therapy is not used on one plane ride?

I will be traveling from SF to London myself in August and I have no intention of hooking up my CPAP while en route. Personally, I don't sleep that well on a plane anyway.

I hope I don't sound critical. I don't mean to. I'm just wondering outloud if this is really necessary. I bet you will be just fine without it.

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): CPAP

[skjansen]

Is it really that big of a deal to just skip using CPAP whilst on the plane? I guess I don't understand how this is so important to make such a fuss. Thousands of people with undiagnosed OSA get through night after night without any therapy. What will happen if CPAP therapy is not used on one plane ride?

I will be traveling from SF to London myself in August and I have no intention of hooking up my CPAP while en route. Personally, I don't sleep that well on a plane anyway.

I hope I don't sound critical. I don't mean to. I'm just wondering outloud if this is really necessary. Personally, I bet you will be just fine without it.

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I guess my big issue is that I will officially have been awake about 27 hours by the time I arrive at my destination. I know that when I doze I am light headed when I wake up. I have also fallen asleep before and woke up with the room spinning around. Not a lovely feeling. Just do not want that to happen on the plane. I really think it depends on how bad your sleep apnea is without therapy. My AHI was 39 without treatment. So, I think this is a BIG deal!!!!!!!!!

CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): CPAP

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): CPAP

[SleepySandy]

Thousands of people with undiagnosed OSA get through night after night without any therapy. What will happen if CPAP therapy is not used on one plane ride?

I was inclined to think the same thing, but then I thought the severity of the apnea would need to come into play.

My AHI is only 14.1. I'm comfortable skipping a night if I need to, so I wouldn't worry about trying to use it on a plane.

For those with a very high AHI I can understand an increased level of anxiety about skipping CPAP, particularly if they know they feel terrible when sleeping without it. And, particularly if they have centrals. I don't really understand but centrals they seem pretty serious.

It sounds like skjansen falls into the more serious category.

[blowfish]

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[TerryB]

I made several overnight flights after getting started on CPAP. I have taken the machine along sometimes, but did not take it on one 5 day trip to Korea. I have not tried to use it in flight.

If you do not let the mental concern get you, I think you will be fine.

Having said that, I had a miserable night before last with nasal congestion which prevented using my CPAP.

Good luck,

TerryB

[blarg]

Honestly, I don't think anyone has addressed the core issue here.

Did you tell them you have a battery to run your machine with while in flight?

If not, then they might not be answering at all based on any medical anything, but simply, "No, you can't use it, there are no outlets."

Now if you don't have a battery, then there's your answer.

[new here]

Your amount of apnea and snoring will be less with you sitting up. Also, and I'm sorry I don't have the reference for this info right now, the benefits of CPAP can be felt for up to 3 days if you need to not wear it or a bit. I have several that go out in the wild for a few days at at time and they don't take their CPAP, and do just fine.

[gasp]

[quote="skjansen"]I just called Continental Airlines and they said I cannot use my CPAP on the plane. I am travelling to Scotland at the end of June and I am a little concerned about this.

Do you think if I dose a little during the flight but am sitting in an upright position that my apneas will not be too bad. I seriourly am afraid of this. The trip will take about 15 hours to get there and 24 hours to get back.

Please someone let me know your thoughts.

[Guest]

Something equally important to consider for a long flight -- compression socks -- ones that come to 1" below knees. Can be purchased at any medical supply store for about $14/pair, availble in different colors -- small price to pay to prevent pulmonary embolus!!
Have a good trip!

Nightingale

[lawdognellie]

Not allowing use of CPAP because it may make noise is discrimination based on disability and is prohibited. Get a note from your doctor. Also bring a copy of the DOT regs just in case. See: http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/rules/382SHORT.htm

§ 382.41(b) Provides that, "Carriers shall permit qualified individuals with a disability using personal ventilators/respirators to bring their equipment, including non-spillable batteries that meet the requirements of 49 CFR 173.159(d) and any applicable FAA safety regulations, on board the aircraft and use it."

I'd just take your CPAP on and use it when you want to sleep. You don't have to call ahead and get permission. The regs specifically provide that, "Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, a carrier shall not require a qualified individual with a disability to provide advance notice of his or her intention to travel or of his or her disability as a condition of receiving transportation or of receiving services or accommodations required by this part."

Sarah

[sleepylady]

Some airlines don't allow use of certain equipment, even CPAP's during flight while others do. IF this is a great concern to you (would be to me too), is it possible you can have your travel agent change your ticket so you can use an airline that DOES allow the use of CPAP's? You may have to pay more, but for your peace of mind it might be worth it.

For me, when I travel overseas again it will only be on an airline that allows the use of CPAP equipment.

Best of luck.