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I have just started using a CPAP machine. My doctor mentioned I shouldn’t drive when I’m sleepy but I don’t really know the rules.
Question:
What are the rules for driving when you have sleep apnoea?
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The specific rules on driving depend on where you live. In general, never drive when you are sleepy and make sure you take regular breaks on long journeys. It is recommended that you take rest breaks at least every couple of hours.
If you are diagnosed with sleep apnoea and have excessive daytime sleepiness you should stop driving. Depending upon where you live you may have to inform the driver licensing authority of your condition.
If you have moderate or severe sleep apnoea you should also stop driving as you are at risk of lapses in concentration.
Once you receive treatment and your symptoms are controlled, you will be deemed safe to drive. However, you will need to attend regular follow-ups to ensure your treatment remains successful.
If you are a commercial driver, the process of getting diagnosed and treated for sleep apnoea will be fast-tracked so that you can resume safe driving as soon as possible. If you drive for a living you will need to provide evidence of successful and continuous treatment for sleep apnoea. Your sleep centre will keep a treatment record when you attend your follow-up appointments.
If you have already started sleep apnoea treatment and become sleepy while driving it is important to arrange an urgent review with your sleep centre to check whether your treatment is still effective.