Situation 10 : OSAS suspected but not yet proven
it is suspected that I may have obstructive sleep apnea, I am not treated, and I now have COVID-19 symptoms!
If you have symptoms such as coughing, fever, shortness of breath, call 1 877 644 4545 to find out if you have contacted COVID-19.
https://cdn-contenu.quebec.ca/cdn-contenu/sante/documents/Problemes_de_sante/19-210-30FA_Guide-autosoins_francais.pdf?1584985897
All respiratory infections, including COVID-19, call for hand and respiratory hygiene to decrease transmission.
If you suspect being infected by COVID-19, you must isolate yourself from other people living under the same roof and follow guidelines established by public health.
You could follow mitigation measures for obstructive sleep apnea. Be aware that once a COVID -19 infected individual is admitted in intensive care, it is possible that he could be treated with a CPAP, or its bi-level cousin or a ventilator, irrespective of obstructive sleep apnea; as was the case with the first infected individuals. (JAMA Huang, Feb 7, 2020).
Rest assure that these devices will take care of all obstructive sleep apnea issues as well as other sleep-related breathing issues.
The infection is the priority. Share any doubts with your physician and caregivers.
Stay zen. Sleeping is part of the treatment.
Côté Santé will be there for you once the infection is over. Meanwhile be sure to rest!
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Katéri Champagne, internal and pneumological medical specialist, epidemiologist, Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine, Quebec, Canada, september 14, 2020, full diffusion allowed.