CPAP and vacations: Keep your health on track, even when you’re on the move!

“My CPAP is my crutch, but it’s also my lifeline. That’s what Sylvie, an avid traveler with sleep apnea, told us. And she’s not the only one! More and more of our customers are sharing with us how their CPAP device has become a pillar of their well-being – a discreet but powerful ally, even away from home. As summer approaches, many are wondering whether they can “take a break” from their treatment for the time of a getaway… And our straightforward answer is: not a good idea.

The consequences of non-treatment, even in the short term

Untreated or partially treated sleep apnea, even over a few days or weeks, can have rapid and tangible effects on your health. Here are the main risks:

• Cardiac and cardiovascular: repeated night-time oxygen deprivation leads to high blood pressure after just a few nights without treatment. Studies show an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke after only a few weeks of untreated sleep (Canadian Sleep Society, 2022). Return to normal may require 6 to 12 weeks of regular CPAP treatment, depending on initial severity.
• Psychological: Irritability, poor concentration and depression are among the first signs to reappear after 3 to 5 nights without treatment. A return to emotional equilibrium often takes 2 to 4 weeks with regular treatment.
• Drowsiness and safety: After just 2 to 3 nights without CPAP, many users report increased drowsiness at the wheel and at work. The risk of car accidents is multiplied by 2 to 3 in people with untreated apnea.
• Diabetes and metabolic co-morbidities: Interruption of treatment promotes insulin resistance and disturbances in blood sugar levels. It often takes 8 to 10 weeks of rigorous treatment to restore stable glycemic balance.

What the statistics say

1 in 3 people with severe sleep apnea experience a rise in blood pressure after just 7 nights without treatment.
(source: Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 2021 )
73% of regular CPAP users noted a drop in stress levels and an increase in energy after 4 weeks of continuous treatment. Over 60% of patients who interrupt their treatment during the vacations say they regret their decision within the first few days.

Travel light, sleep deep: it’s possible!

Just because you’re going away doesn’t mean your treatment has to stay at home. Today, there are ultra-practical solutions that adapt to your lifestyle:

AirMini™ from ResMed:

As light as a water bottle, it slips easily into your carry-on luggage. Compatible with many popular masks. Ideal for camping, van life, travel or hotel stays.

Appareil Auto CPAP Resmed de voyage AirMini

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AirMini forfait de luxe

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Philips Dreamstation 2 :

Compact, can be connected to an external battery. Quiet touchscreen. Perfect for frequent travelers.

Philips Dreamstation 2

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Batterie Pilot-24 Lite pour appareil CPAP

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Batterie Pilot-12 Lite pour appareil CPAP

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50W Pilot 24 and 12 solar panel

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Your CPAP treatment is your freedom.

Don’t let a summer break affect your overall health. Restful sleep, even on vacation, is the best way to make the most of every moment. And don’t forget: our professionals are here to help you plan your trips with your equipment. Call us, write to us, drop in. We’re with you, here and elsewhere.
Ready to explore the world… well rested?
Stay the course, breathe easier, live life to the full.