flu

[peanuto5]

Hi Everyone, I am new here but i have been using a bipap since Jan\11 I have had a terrible flu so i haven't been using my machine,is there any one else out there that had the same problem? I just want to feel better and start my therapy again. Thanks

[beanfruit]

I'm recovering from a bad case of the flu and still have a nasty cough. My only advice is to just try to get back on the hose as much as you can, as soon as you can. There were several nights where I'd leave it off until my fever broke - then when I woke up at that point I'd put it on and leave it on as much as I could the rest of the night. A few nights ago was the first night I tried to wear it all night through and it sucked...it felt like I was back at the beginning again with claustrophobia and misery...didn't sleep much at all. The next night it was better and the night after that was better, etc. Last night was the first night that I felt like I was back to my normal CPAP night's sleep.

If it helps at all, I think the humidified air from CPAP is making me feel better. Or at least when I wake up in the morning my cough is at least productive. By the end of the day my head hurts from coughing so much and I can't wait to hose up.

[chunkyfrog]

I find that my CPAP helps with any respiratory infection--I would have to be in really bad shape to skip using it.
Thank you for reminding me I need to get my flu shot--ASAP!

[BlackSpinner]

I find that my CPAP helps with any respiratory infection--I would have to be in really bad shape to skip using it.
Thank you for reminding me I need to get my flu shot--ASAP!

Right xpap is the best thing since OTC cold medication. Jack up the humidity and use a full face mask. When you are ill the LAST thing you want is bad sleep and Oxygen deprivation.

[RandyJ]

Can't imagine not using cpap during a cold... can't imagine not using it ever...

[taberge]

All the more reason to make sure you get a flu shot!

As for me, there is no way in hell I can use a CPAP during a cold. If you literally can't breathe due to congestion and receive zero oxygen then one dies. The best solution available is to sleep on my side and deal with the situation as best I can.

[Captain_Midnight]

Five years ago, the same day I got my first CPAP, I came down with a type b flu. Just plain nasty.

I somehow managed to use this new contraption, even with the fever, aches, malaise, congestion, and ickiness. I think that cpap use might have shortened the duration and lessened the severity; AND, it stifled the coughing when I used it. I washed the unit every day while ill (pounding head and all.) I would sleep on whatever side allowed me to breath the most, and just stayed in that orientation.

I have since bought a full face mask for use, just in case I ever get so congested I can't breath with the nasal mask. (I've never needed it, but it's nice to have.)

The good news? I have had far fewer colds since beginning xpap therapy (and no flues).

Good luck getting back on the pap as soon as possible.

.

[NightMonkey]

As for me, there is no way in hell I can use a CPAP during a cold.

I can understand that if you are trying to use a nasal mask as listed in your equipment profile.

But if you get a FFM to use with heavy nasal congestion, you can breathe through your mouth and still experience the CPAP therapy even in hell.

You are right about that flu shot!

I think that cpap use might have shortened the duration and lessened the severity;

.

I haven't had the flu yet, but did have the same experience with a couple of colds - the duration was shorter and the severity was less than prior to CPAP.

[Vader]

They're offering flu shots early this year.

I wasn't taking any chances, and got mine last month!