What Causes Flu Like Symptoms While On CPAP Machine?

Posted on Sun, 26 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 26 Jul 2015 Answered on

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Is it possible that my CPAP machine is causing me to have flu like symptoms. I have had several bout that last about eight hour of discomfort and vomiting.

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Acute viral gastroenteritis as long as ct-scan of abdomen is ok...

Detailed Answer:
Hi my dear,

I understand your concern.

1. You are saying to be on CPAP machine, which is a small machine used especially in patients with sleep apnea. It provides a constant air pressure during the night.

It is common to have frequent flu like symptoms in patients with such breathing problems.

2. Your symptoms of having discomfort and vomiting are indicative for possible viral gastroenteritis as long as nothing was found during ct-scan exam of your abdomen. Practically, gallbladder or other GI problems are excluded.

3. I advise to:
- eat often and small portions
- avoid oily/spicy/chilly foods
- have light meals
- take probiotics and tasectan to stabilize intestinal flora and stop vomiting
- if you cannot tolerate food and vomit all the time, discuss with your doctor to take an injection of anti-vomit medication
- increase water intake with ORS to keep well hydrated

Hope it was of help! Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar