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Managing CPAP Therapy With a Cold or Flu

August 6, 2025

If you live with sleep apnea, your CPAP machine is a nightly essential. But what happens when you catch a cold or the flu? Many people wonder if it’s safe – or even practical – to use CPAP when they’re feeling congested, coughing, and downright miserable. The good news? You can, and in many cases, you should.

Why Keep Using CPAP When You’re Sick?

Research shows that people who stick to their CPAP therapy consistently experience fewer days with cold symptoms compared to those who don’t use it as regularly.1 This might be because CPAP keeps your airway open and supports better sleep, which in turn helps your immune system do its job.

Some users even find CPAP comforting during a cold. The warm, humidified air can soothe irritated airways and help move mucus through your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe after a few minutes of use.2

Tips to Make CPAP More Comfortable With a Cold

  1. Use Your Humidifier (and Heated Tubing) – A heated humidifier helps reduce airway irritation, which is particularly helpful when you’re congested.2
  2. Consider a Full-Face Mask – If nasal congestion is making your usual mask impossible to use, a full-face mask can help you breathe comfortably through your mouth until your nose clears up.2
  3. Saline Spray or Rinses – Simple over-the-counter saline sprays or sinus rinses can moisten nasal passages and flush out mucus, helping you tolerate your CPAP mask better.2
  4. Medications for Symptom Relief – Over-the-counter cold and flu remedies – like antihistamines, cough suppressants, or mucus thinners – may reduce congestion and help you sleep more comfortably.2 Nasal decongestant sprays (like oxymetazoline) can work in the short term but shouldn’t be used long term to avoid rebound congestion. Always speak to your doctor before taking medication.
  5. Adjust Your Sleeping Position – Sleeping on your side or with your head slightly elevated can reduce nasal obstruction and improve airflow.2
  6. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider About Pressure Adjustments – If your nose is particularly blocked, you might need a temporary increase in CPAP pressure. Auto-CPAP machines can adjust this automatically, but your provider can also make short-term changes if needed.

When to Call Your Doctor

If your symptoms make it hard to use your CPAP, or you’re worried about how your cold or flu is affecting your breathing at night, check in with your healthcare provider. They can guide you on safe pressure settings, mask options, and symptom relief strategies.

The Bottom Line

Catching a cold doesn’t mean you need to ditch your CPAP. With the right strategies, you can stay comfortable and maintain your therapy – even while sick.

If you’re struggling with CPAP during illness or have ongoing breathing concerns, speak with your doctor or sleep specialist. Good sleep is one of the best things you can do for your recovery.

How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help

Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time.

If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au.

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply.

References

  1. Matsui, Kentaro, et al. “Adherence to CPAP in Summer to Autumn Predicts Self-Reported Common Cold Symptoms in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Winter: A Prospective Observational Study.” Sleep Medicine, vol. 104, 1 Mar. 2023, pp. 90–97. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2023.02.020. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.
  2. Mercieca, Liam, et al. “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure: Is It a Route for Infection in Those with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?” Sleep Science, vol. 10, no. 1, 2017, https://doi.org/10.5935/1984-0063.20170005. Accessed 30 Jan. 2022.