Traveling with your CPAP

Poway, California - August 8, 2008

Going on vacation? Don’t forget to pack your CPAP!

With a few weeks left in the summer and several holidays on the horizon, travelers everywhere are packing up their CPAP machines and heading to other destinations. Using your CPAP regularly and consistently is crucial to effective therapy, even when you’re not at home in the comfort of your own bed. Many CPAP systems, such as ResMed’s S8™ Series II devices, are extremely lightweight and fully portable so you can take them with you wherever you travel. Read on for tips and suggestions when traveling with your CPAP machine.

Rules and Regulations on Commercial Airlines

When traveling, you should always have the following information with you: treatment pressure, mask type and size, sleep specialist contact information, general practitioner information and health insurance information.

Before traveling, passengers should contact their airline to check whether any special requirements or restrictions apply. Some airlines allow passengers to use their CPAP in flight, but some do not. Make sure you check with your airline before booking your flight. Security may require you to show the medical statement from your physician verifying that you are carrying medical equipment. Please note that humidifiers should not be used while on an aircraft.

The following checklist will help you in preparing for your travel abroad:

• Carry a letter from your doctor certifying your need for CPAP treatment.
• Obtain approval from the airline’s Medical Services for use on the flight.
• Arrange seating close to a power source on the aircraft.
• Confirm the type of power cord or adapter required by the aircraft.

International Travel

All ResMed devices have a power supply that automatically adjusts to the various power supplies in different parts of the world. They all accept 100-240V, 50-60Hz without any special adjustment. Please note that you will still need to use the correct adaptor for the power supply socket of the country you are visiting. You may purchase plug adapters at electronics and travel stores.

Traveling to Higher Altitudes

Most devices now automatically compensate for altitude changes. For other devices, failure to make the appropriate adjustment may result in ineffective therapy. ResMed’s premium S8 devices, including the S8 Elite™, S8 AutoSet Vantage™ and the entire S8 II line, include automatic altitude adjustment. Other devices may require manual adjustment for altitude changes, so consult your local homecare provider to discuss your specific CPAP machine regarding this feature.

Power and Battery Issues

You may be surprised to know that you may even use your CPAP system in the outdoors, such as during camping trips. With the use of a suitable inverter unit, many CPAPs can operate from a battery supply (eg, in a truck or recreational vehicle). You should contact your manufacturer or local provider for more information on inverter specifications. It is important to note that you will require a spare battery. Use of the primary battery that operates your vehicle may result in draining of the battery. Choose a deep cycle battery (used in 4WD vehicles and boats), as these are better suited to frequent discharge. Your local provider can assist in your choice of a suitable inverter for your CPAP.

Traveling with your CPAP may seem like a hassle, but it does not need to interfere with your active lifestyle. More importantly, using your CPAP will help you get the rest you need to fully enjoy your vacation. For more tips on CPAP therapy, visit www.myresmed.com and click on Therapy Tips.

About MyResMed

MyResMed.com is a 24-hour resource for diagnosed sleep apnea patients and CPAP users. MyResMed offers detailed product information, mask fitting and cleaning tips, customizable replacement reminders, answers to frequently asked questions and much more. Visit www.myresmed.com to get the most out of your CPAP therapy today.

About ResMed

ResMed is a global leader in medical equipment for the screening, treatment and management of sleep-disordered breathing and other respiratory disorders. ResMed sells a comprehensive range of products through direct offices in the United States and more than 70 other countries. ResMed provides reliable products, quality systems and complete solutions for its customers and their patients.

Here is a great resource from ResMed about powering their devices from a battery.

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