10 Things To Remember If You Have Sleep Apnea & Get COVID-19
If you struggle with sleep apnea, you may be more concerned about your risk of developing severe COVID-19. Sleep apnea sufferers should make a plan with their doctor to help reduce their risk of catching the virus.
Does Sleep Apnea Increase My Chances of Getting Sick?
There is some evidence showing a higher rate of COVID-19 for people with sleep apnea. Sleep apnea may also be linked to developing severe COVID-19 once infected. The risk may be higher for patients who are not being treated for sleep apnea.
Will My CPAP Machine Prevent Respiratory Illness?
While using a CPAP machine for sleep apnea cannot prevent getting COVID-19 or other respiratory illnesses, it could keep patients from having a severe infection. Here are some additional ways people with sleep apnea can protect themselves from COVID-19.
1. Protect Yourself With a Vaccine
The most important preventative step to take is to get a COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccines are safe and effective at preventing patients from being hospitalized or dying from COVID-19.
2. Schedule a Booster
If you got your vaccine more than six months ago or if you got the one-dose Johnson and Johnson shot, you should also get a vaccine booster. A booster can help maintain higher levels of antibodies against COVID-19.
3. Practice Social Distancing
It’s also important to continue to social distance when possible. People at a higher risk of developing severe disease may want to avoid crowds at places like stadiums, concerts, schools and other congested locations.
4. Wear a Mask
You should also wear a mask at various indoor locations, such as the grocery store, work or the gym. Choose a high-quality mask, such as a three-ply surgical mask to get the best results.
5. Get Treatment
Next, make sure you are actively being treated for your sleep apnea and using the best full face CPAP mask. Talk to your doctor if you have signs of sleep apnea, such as waking up often, falling asleep during the day, lack of focus or irritability.
6. Get a COVID-19 Test Right Away
If you have symptoms of illness, such as fever, cough or congestion, get a COVID-19 test immediately. Many test centers offer results the same day.
7. Ask Your Doctor About Monoclonal Antibodies
After testing positive, ask your doctor about monoclonal antibody treatment to lower your risk of hospitalization. Act fast since this treatment is only available in the first few days of infection.
8. Isolate From Family
Stay isolated from family and friends until your doctor gives you the okay. Quarantine from work and your activities while you recover.
9. Monitor Your Oxygen
Consider buying a home oxygen monitor for your finger. Check your oxygen levels throughout the day. If they dip too low, call your doctor or visit the emergency room.
10. Sleep on Your Side or Stomach
To keep your lungs from developing pneumonia, sleep on your side or prone on your stomach with a Resmed Airfit P10 if you get COVID-19. Keep moving and do deep breathing exercises each day.
Sleep apnea patients may be worried about their risk of getting COVID-19. Work with your doctor to lower your chances of getting sick and focus on prevention to get the best outcome.
