Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Traveling With Sleep Apnea

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Are you planning on getting on a place this holiday season? Flying has become a huge ordeal for all of us but for patients with obstructive sleep apnea it can be especially complicated.

Most TSA agents are familiar with CPAP machines but CPAP users need to remember that the bins used at the screening area are not particularly clean. I suggest placing your items in plastic bags before placing them in the screening bins to avoid contamination.

Some patients choose to pack their CPAP in their luggage to avoid dealing with the inspection line but your luggage can be lost and not treating your apnea is a dangerous idea.

After you have gone through the security check MAKE SURE you have your CPAP. Many times the agent will set the machine aside for a closer look and then forget to give it back. Arriving at your destination with an empty carrying case is not a good way to start your vacation.

People with obstructive sleep apnea that travel frequently often choose an oral appliance instead of a CPAP. Most people who have tried CPAP and oral appliances prefer the comfort and ease of use that an oral appliance provides. There are no hoses to clean, no masks, no worries about distilled water... Your oral appliance is easily cleaned with a toothbrush or some denture cleanser. The oral appliance fits easily into your pocketbook or carry-on and does not require special treatment from agents at the airport. A big bonus - you can comfortably sleep on those long flights knowing that your apnea is controlled and that your snoring won't disturb the passengers around you.

Find out if you are a candidate for oral appliance therapy by contacting South Florida sleep apnea dentist Dr. Kenneth A Mogell at 561-394-9000.

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