As winter settles in, we naturally spend more time indoors, relying on heating systems and sealing our homes against the cold. While this helps keep us warm, it can also lead to stale, dry air that affects our health, especially for those who use CPAP therapy for sleep apnea. Clean indoor air is essential for respiratory comfort, better sleep, and consistent therapy compliance.
Poor indoor air quality can irritate the airways, leading to congestion and nighttime discomfort. Dust, pet dander, allergens, and dry air are common culprits that interfere with healthy breathing. For individuals with sleep apnea, these irritants may make CPAP therapy less comfortable and harder to use consistently. Breathing clean, well-humidified air supports more comfortable breathing and a smoother CPAP experience.
Winter brings specific indoor triggers that can worsen air quality. Familiar sources include smoke from fireplaces or candles, as well as pollutants from vaping or cooking. Heating systems also tend to dry out indoor air, which can leave your sinuses irritated and your nasal passages dry. Without proper moisture, this dry environment can make CPAP use uncomfortable and may even lead to increased mouth breathing or air leaks in your mask.
CPAP therapy depends on comfort and fit. Dry air can cause nasal irritation, sore throats, and make it harder to breathe naturally through the nose. Many users experience increased mask leaks or find themselves removing their device during the night due to discomfort. Using a CPAP humidifier or heated tubing during winter can ease these issues by keeping the air you breathe moist and warm. This helps reduce congestion and may make your therapy experience more comfortable. Here is how you can put an end to nasal dryness from your CPAP.
In addition to air quality, a clean environment for your CPAP equipment is critical. Regularly washing your mask, tubing, and humidifier chamber helps prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and bacteria. Storing your equipment in a clean, dry space and replacing supplies as recommended ensures you continue to receive safe, effective therapy night after night.
Improving indoor air quality during winter isn’t just about comfort; it’s an important part of supporting your respiratory health and sleep apnea treatment. By taking small, consistent steps to clean your air and maintain your CPAP routine, you can sleep better and breathe easier all season long. Learn more about Apria's Sleep Care Program.
References
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Kim, Sungroul, Birhan Legese Gurmu, Mingi Kim, Chiyou Song, Mee-Ri Lee, Chris Chaeha Lim, Ana M Rule, and Kwang Ik Yang. “Effect of Indoor Air Quality on Potential Risk of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Results from Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.” BMC public health, April 7, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40197163/.
Lee, Jung Ju, Bong Jin Jang, Daeho Kwon, and Hyeyun Kim. “Affecting Factors and Seasonal Effects on the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Adherence of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” Heliyon, October 26, 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39524723/.
Vidal, Celia, Jean-Pierre Mallet, Sarah Skinner, Raphael Gilson, Olivier Gaubert, Arnaud Prigent, Frédéric Gagnadoux, Arnaud Bourdin, Nicolas Molinari, and Dany Jaffuel. “The Influence of Atmospheric Temperature on Long-Term CPAP-Usage in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.” Sleep medicine, January 23, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39879676/.