Everyday life with CPAP

Should You Use CPAP When You Nap?

Yes. Sleep apnea happens whenever you sleep, so NHLBI and the AASM both say to use your PAP machine for all sleep, including naps. If you are new to CPAP, skipping naps can also make it easier to fall asleep with the mask at night.

Signs

  • Waking from a nap more tired
  • Gasping or snoring during naps
  • Napping without the machine

Common causes

Apnea happens in every sleep
ResMed says even a quick nap without CPAP likely means disruptive apneas.
Naps reduce bedtime sleepiness
ResMed says avoiding naps keeps some sleep debt, which can make it easier to fall asleep with CPAP at night while you adjust.

Fixes to try, easiest first

  1. Use CPAP for every nap

    Keep the machine set up wherever you nap. NHLBI says to use your PAP machine for all sleep, including naps.

  2. Limit naps while you adjust

    If you are new to CPAP, ResMed suggests avoiding naps so you are sleepier at bedtime.

  3. Know how naps show up in your data

    ResMed's myAir shows the first sleep session per day and updates when it receives data from another session the same day.

  4. Bring CPAP when traveling

    Use it on planes, trains or in a recliner if you plan to sleep. A battery can help when no outlet is close.

  5. Tell your doctor about daily sleepiness with your clinician

    If you still need a nap every day while using CPAP all night, mention it at your follow up. Ongoing sleepiness can mean your therapy needs review or that something else is going on.

When to call your doctor

Talk to your doctor if you need naps every day despite using CPAP all night, since ongoing sleepiness can mean your therapy needs adjusting or there is another cause.

Supplies that can help

CPAP battery

A battery pack that runs a CPAP machine without mains power, for camping, power outages or long flights.

AmazonCPAP.comAffiliate linksHow to choose
CPAP travel case

A padded bag that protects the machine, mask, tubing and power supply in transit.

AmazonCPAP.comAffiliate linksHow to choose

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Mask types this applies to

Nasal maskNasal pillows maskFull face maskUnder the nose full face mask (hybrid, minimal contact)

Frequently asked questions

Do I really need CPAP for a 20 minute nap?

Yes, if you fall asleep. ResMed says even a quick nap without CPAP likely involves apneas.

Do naps count toward CPAP compliance?

Time with the mask on counts toward your usage. How naps are counted in reports depends on your machine and software, so ask your provider.

Can I nap in a recliner with CPAP?

Yes. Set up the hose so it does not pull and keep the machine on a stable surface below head level.

Sources

Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error

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