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I have sleep apnea, am I a patient at risk?


Darth Vader version Frederic Troisieme, old master glassmaker. – SICCOLI PATRICK / SIPA

The stress linked to the coronavirus epidemic, the tiredness felt after hours of teleworking, the mental load increased tenfold because of the brats to manage at home, the hour of dodo in less due to
changeover to summer time in the night from Saturday to Sunday … Difficult to enjoy peaceful nights at the moment. Even more for those whose comfort of sleep (health at heart) is only due to respiratory equipment at home (this famous respirator which gives the impression to the neighbor of the barracks to spend the night in the company of Darth Vader). In this uncertain period, readers of 20 minutes wonder:

“I have sleep apnea, am I at risk? “, Thillier

“Can people who are confined and have symptoms of Covid-19 be relieved with nighttime apnea devices?” “, Mya

“I am 73 years old and I am fitted for my sleep apnea. Should I clean my mask more and how? “, Laurent

20 minutes found the following answers:

The French Society for Research and Sleep Medicine (SFRMS) produced, in particular, the sleep group of the French-language Pneumology Society (SPLF), a press release available on its website and on social networks. The goal: “To provide answers to certain questions that patients or caregivers ask about sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) and its treatment by continuous positive pressure (CPP) in the context of the epidemic” from Covid-19.

We learn that, at present, “there is no argument for an increase in the risk directly linked to SAS. However, SAS is often associated with conditions identified as risk or severity factors for Covid-19 infection [obésité, diabète, hypertension artérielle, maladies cardio-vasculaires]. “

Air flows can spread the virus. There is also no data on the clinical impact of CPAP therapy in patients with SAS infected with the coronavirus. On the other hand, the specialists insist, “the intentional mask leak and the high air flows delivered by the machine could contribute to spreading the virus in the patient’s environment, and exposing those around him. So sleep in a separate room, not accessible to others.

Approach the prescribing doctor. Thus, in the event of infection or suspected infection in a person wearing a home appliance, it is imperative to inform the prescribing doctor and the home care provider (by phone or email). A temporary cessation of treatment could indeed be discussed during the contagious period. It is also strongly advised not to use your device near your family circle.

In all cases, your machine should be scrupulously cleaned (water tank, mask, hose, etc.), according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. And, if in doubt, approach the prescribing doctor.

Finally, with regard to the question of Mya (can people with symptoms of coronavirus be relieved by the use of a PPC device?), We asked it to Pr Frédéric Gagnadoux, president of the SFRMS who works at the Angers University Hospital. “At the moment, we don’t know, that’s why we haven’t communicated on this aspect,” he said. We will have to wait to answer this question. Especially since the treatment is very variable from one patient to another. But if the user feels worse when he stops using PPC, he should resume it. While being careful not to contaminate the person sleeping next to him. “

So that you can see more clearly, 20 minutes is working to answer your questions, which you can send to us by following the procedure below. Thank you in advance (and take care of yourself)!

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