CPAP always goes with me

Hi everyone!

I'm an OSA patient, who's very highly satisfied with my CPAP. I'd estimate that I have a compliance rate in excess of 99%, because, you see, I have this distinct distaste to waking up dead. The only time I don't use my CPAP is when my nose is so plugged up (despite nasal sprays and antihistamines) that no air will flow. Only happens 1 to 2 times a year. I've been using the CPAP for 23 years, with nasal pillows or cannulas.

As a Scout Leader for my sons, I even took my CPAP camping, using a gel-cell wheelchair battery. Camping from overnighters to 10 day summer camp, to long distance float trip expeditions. Temperature ranges were from -15 F to 110F (not all in the same trip, but that can happen with the right high adventure expedition.) And because of "Be Prepared!" I always took my Snoreball shirt with a new can of tennis balls for backup or running out of power. If anyone is interested in camping with your CPAP, I'd be glad to chat. /s/ -h

WOW.......you sure are a champion OldRiverRat! Many of the reasons you seem to have good outcomes from treating your apnea is your dedication to finding solutions to challenges of traveling with CPAP. You share many challenges with truckers. Perhaps there should be a scouting badge available to CPAP users who creatively learn to find ways to adapt to any environment....a "Be Prepared to Sleep and Breathe" badge! :-)

Are there any other scout leaders, truckers, world travelers or others out there who have stories for us?

I also use my CPAP regularly, including taking it with me during frequent travels and using batteries when I camp or otherwise do not have electricity. My only reason for writing this note is the reference to not being able to use the CPAP when nose is totally plugged. It only happens to me once every few years but I keep one full face mask that I use when it does occur. That allows me to breath through my mouth. Prior to that, I slept without the CPAP and it was okay but this is much better. Since I use it so infrequently, I should get by with just the one. Of course, I clean it thoroughly since I am sick when I use it.

I've been a camper for many years but am new to the CPAP. I got it in June and had no problems with condensation in the tube until the night temperatures got cooler in the fall. The gurgling sound wakes me up and I've had to empty out the contents of the tube two to three times a night. I like cool/cold weather camping but the gurgling drives me nuts. Any suggestions besides stop using the CPAP?

[Note: This is only my second attempt at using a forum of any kind. My first attempt was unsuccessful. I couldn't figure out how to find the replies. I thank you in advance for your time and consideration.]

Well you made it now! As far as the tube and getting water in it, If the machine is on the ground, hang a hook (maybe from an old coat hanger) from the tent top and loop it. The excess water can't make it to the top and will drain back to the tank I think. Good luck.

OldRiverRat,

I am also a scout leader and have just been prescribed a CPAP machine I have the ResMed 10 Auto... $330 is what ResMed wants for a battery setp to steep for me! I was looking at these auto jump start packs do you have any working knowledge of these? Any suggestions for a battery setup for my unit? Typically no longer than 5 night in the woods?

Bobwhite John

Not sure one of the jump start things would hold charge for 5 days. Since you are just looking for a stable 110V outlet, a generator seems more on point. Honda generators have a rep for being very quiet.

I'd love to hear your wisdom about batteries for a CPAP... I've been using my machine for two years and love it, but I haven't gone camping yet and I'd like to be able to do so.

I haven't gone camping in years, but I'm a vendor at shows, and a backup would be nice for long drives when I have to pull over and get some sleep. I'm looking at batteries now, as well as a backup power supply for home (we get power outages during storm season).

I'd estimate that I have a compliance rate in excess of 99%, because, you see, I have this distinct distaste to waking up dead.

My sentiments exactly.