This is an important question to ask. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a lot of new information emerging on a daily basis. We want to make sure you have all the up-to-date and important information regarding your health and well-being as a patient with sleep apnea. 

From stay-at-home orders to mask mandates across the country, it can be confusing and stressful to understand what is allowed and what is not. We completely understand that and hope we can help ease your fears during these unprecedented times. We are all still on high alert due to COVID-19, but we also need to pay attention to your health and current conditions, such as sleep apnea. If you do have a sleep apnea diagnosis, here are some things to keep in mind to continue to protect yourself and manage your condition.

Address feelings of anxiety

As the pandemic continues, it is vital for patients with sleep apnea to continue their treatment–whether it is with CPAP or an oral appliance. However, it is also key to pay attention to your anxiety. So many people are experiencing heightened anxiety about the pandemic, which can add to sleep troubles. 

Additionally, if you are worried about using your CPAP or oral appliance during this time, don’t fret. It is OK to continue with your treatment as recommended. If you do have any concerns, though, please call Dr. Sara and our team at AZ Sleep & TMJ Solutions to discuss what we can do to continue to protect you and your family.

Sleep apnea isn’t an increased risk

There has been a lot of talk about underlying conditions and their risk for severe outcomes if you were to have COVID-19. However, there is no evidence to show that you are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 if you suffer from sleep apnea. Risk factors for severe illness, though, may include age and underlying medical conditions if they are not controlled. 

Those underlying medical conditions include but are not limited to:

  • Moderate to severe asthma.
  • Serious heart conditions.
  • Obesity, which can also lead to sleep apnea. 
  • Compromised immune system.
  • Chronic kidney disease.
  • Liver disease. 
  • Type 2 diabetes.

Following your original treatment plan of using your CPAP machine or oral appliance will help you get the sleep that your body needs. It is imperative that you do not avoid it. Please reach out to us if you have any concerns or questions about managing your sleep apnea during the COVID-19 pandemic.