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October 27, 2019 4:08 PM

Information for CPAP and BIPAP Users

For CPAP and BIPAP users, a power outage may impact your ability to use CPAP or
BIPAP to treat your sleep apnea.

What are some options to consider in the event of a power outage?

Remember that regular usage of CPAP/BIPAP has carry over benefits for a night or
two, by increasing muscle tone in your mouth and throat. Your sleep apnea may not
be as severe on a single night without CPAP/BIPAP as it was before you started
treatment.

There are a few things you can do to reduce your sleep apnea severity if you find
yourself without CPAP/BIPAP:

  • Sleep on your side or stomach, but NOT on your back
  • Sleep semi-upright (e.g., in a recliner)
  • Do not drink alcohol
  • Do not smoke tobacco or marijuana
  • Do not use narcotic pain medicines or other sedatives

Backup power options in event of a power outage include:

  • A generator. If you have a generator, be sure to follow safety instructions and use
    only as needed to save fuel. Always allow the generator to cool completely
    before refueling.
  • A rechargeable CPAP battery. Available options can be found online, e.g. from
    https://www.CPAP.com.

*If you use CPAP, BIPAP or an oxygen concentrator for chronic respiratory failure and
not just CPAP/BIPAP for sleep apnea, planning for power outages by obtaining a
generator may be necessary. Please discuss with your Primary care provider or
Pulmonologist if you have questions about this.