If you have sleep apnea, you might be feeling a little reluctant to take that trip you’ve been thinking about—but you shouldn’t shy away from travel due to your condition! With careful planning and consideration, it’s absolutely possible to still have a restful and enjoyable adventure. Whether you’re heading on a road trip, flying across time zones, or off for a weekend of camping in the great outdoors, sleep apnea doesn’t have to prevent you from getting a great and relaxing night of rest. Here are some useful tips you should keep in mind.
Tip #1. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule
You should try to stick to your regular sleeping schedule as much as possible, even when traveling across time zones—this might not always be easy, but it will help your body adjust and reduce the risk of sleep disturbances. To help with this, try to avoid snacking or other stimulants right before bedtime, like smoking, caffeine, or alcohol.
Tip #2. Pack Your Mouthpiece in Your Carry-on
Especially if you’re flying, make sure to pack your sleep apnea oral appliance in your carry-on bag—that way, no matter where you end up hitting the hay, you’ll have access to your mouthguard. Even just not having that device for one night can cause your condition to keep you from getting the rest you need to enjoy your vacation, family time, or sightseeing. It also never hurts to pack comfort items in that same bag—your favorite pillow, earplugs, or an eye mask if you need one!
Tip #3. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to get swept up in whatever it is you’re doing while you’re out of town, but something you should be certain you’re doing is drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms of sleep apnea, and if you’re flying or driving, you might not be drinking as much water as usual, which can have an effect come bedtime.
Tip #4. Pack Your CPAP Carefully
If you rely on a CPAP machine to manage your sleep apnea, be sure that you’re carefully packing your device and all of its components—including its power cord! If you’re traveling abroad, be mindful that other countries sometimes have outlets that may not be compatible with your device’s power cord, so plan accordingly and don’t forget to pack an extension cord. Ideally, keep your device carefully in a bag you’ll always have access to.
Though it may present some unique challenges, traveling with sleep apnea is very much possible with thoughtful preparation. These tips are certain to help you make the most of your journey, wherever you go.
About the Practice
Star Sleep & Wellness has proudly served patients in the Irving, TX community for several years, offering a wide range of sleep apnea treatment options for patients from all walks of life. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to schedule a visit for yourself or someone you know who suffers from sleep apnea, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (844) 409-4657.