Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
Hi,
I’m in the process of trying various adjustments to see if I can make therapy more effective, comfortable, and easier. One thing I have been trying out is using my ResMed Airsense 10 machine without the humidifier and the ResMed side piece cover in it’s place.
So far, therapy without humidification feels ok to me. The number of events are slightly lower, though that might not relate to not using the humidifier. Also, I like that there’s one less part to empty, refill, wash, etc.
Question: Are there any reasons why the machine should not be run without the humidifier on a regular ongoing long-term basis, so long as it’s well tolerated? Are there any downsides to consider?
[i] I'm grateful to everyone that participates on this board and shares their knowledge and experiences . It makes all the difference for a newbie like me.  [/i]
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
The only problem would be if you have a problem with your nose or throat drying out. If you don't have that problem than you don't have to use the humidifier. It won't hurt the machine.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
I think it is purely a matter of your own comfort.
That may change depending on whether you travel to a different climate, or have some physical condition that benefits from the humidity, or whatever. A lot of people say that their respiratory conditions improve as a coincidence of using humidified xPAP. I haven't used it long enough to know.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
Dry nose, dry mouth, dry tongue, sore throat .... I would not like waking up every morning like that! Like said above, if it doesn’t effect you then you don’t need the humidifier. Good luck!
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
It used to be common to dispense CPAP machines without a humidifier, and most travel CPAPs have no humidifier. Humidity is a comfort feature. That said, it has become so widely preferred and prescribed, that the mainstream machines like the Airsense 10 have integrated humidification rather than a separate component. If it works for you, that's all that matters; it will be there for you if you change your mind.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
It's defiantly a comfort item for me. Below 40% and I start coughing spasms from the dry air. Above 40% and I don't need it. Everybody is different in this area and you will probably have to experiment to see if it works for you and when.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
Definitely comfort.
My initial trial period (2 weeks) on a loaner machine was without the humidifier.
My congestion only moderately increased, but every morning when I blew my nose, I'd get evidence of having had some bleeding.
I run my A10 on level 5 and it works well there.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
(12-04-2017, 06:35 PM)DreamingOfSleeping Wrote: Also, I like that there’s one less part to empty, refill, wash, etc.
When I first started, way back in September  , I thought everything had to be washed according to the directions. Since then, I've found they don't need to be cleaned nearly as often. Frankly I doubt if the hose needs to be cleaned at all, but that's just me.
For the humidifier, I just empty it each morning and let it air dry. The side cover keeps any stray cat hair, spiders or dust out of the machine.
Once this all becomes routine, you may find that there is a lot less washing going on.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
(12-04-2017, 06:35 PM)DreamingOfSleeping Wrote: Hi,
I’m in the process of trying various adjustments to see if I can make therapy more effective, comfortable, and easier. One thing I have been trying out is using my ResMed Airsense 10 machine without the humidifier and the ResMed side piece cover in it’s place.
So far, therapy without humidification feels ok to me. The number of events are slightly lower, though that might not relate to not using the humidifier. Also, I like that there’s one less part to empty, refill, wash, etc.
Question: Are there any reasons why the machine should not be run without the humidifier on a regular ongoing long-term basis, so long as it’s well tolerated? Are there any downsides to consider?
[i] I'm grateful to everyone that participates on this board and shares their knowledge and experiences . It makes all the difference for a newbie like me. [/i]
My humidifier is in "deep" storage. Only brought it out when I was having the cold and it really helped then. I sleep in air conditioning so the air is somewhat dry. If you don't feel a dry throat when you wake, or have sinus issues for which the humidification may help relief, you don't need to use the humidifier. Saves the filling, washing and drying.
The doctor says coffee does not affect my tinnitus and it's got lots of antioxidants....however, the after dinner drinks are a different matter altogether.
RE: Are There Downsides to Generally Not Using Humidification?
Used CPAP for years without humidity. When I switched to pillows- (thinks it was Swift at the time) I noticed that nose felt very chilled and irritated. Currently not using pillows but now find that will have runny nose and sneezing thought the day when I don't use humidity.
I think I read an article once that humidity reduces nasal resistance.
But basically, it's all about comfort.
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