Cold, Congestion help

[shaggyzack]

So are there any suggestions for using CPAP when you have a horrible cold with sinus congestion, runny nose, cough, sneezing....I have the whole buffet of symptoms. I used saline spray last night to clear sinuses before bed, but of course that only lasts for a bit. Used Breathe Right-type strips to help open up airway, some meds that only last 4 hours at a time, propped up with some pillows, and still could not breathe with nasal pillows. I am so miserable today with cold and little sleep. I will try the full face mask tonight and see if that is any better, but wondered if you guys have any good suggestions that have worked for you.

~Thank you!!

[YogaKitty]

I always turn my humidity up and put some Vicks on a cottenball by the air intake.

[Janknitz]

Sometimes you're just too "gooey" to use a CPAP. A cold means a bad night or two. But once the sneezies and dripping are under control, a full face mask with the humidifier cranked up can be a great comfort. I find there's no way to use nasal pillows until the viral inflammation calms down.

[shaggyzack]

Thank you! I will try the Vicks at the air intake and the full face mask, if that doesn't do it, I may be in the recliner for a night or two. This too shall pass.

[locust78]

I've found that if I'm just borderline, the CPAP alone is enough to muscle through my cold symptoms and help me breathe better during the night. If I'm really bad, I break down & take a NyQuil type OTC med. Even though it usually leaves me feeling foggy the next day, at least it opens me up enough to keep using my CPAP during the night.