It’s easy to assume that tap water is safe for everything—after all, we drink it daily. But when it comes to using it in medical devices like CPAP machines or nasal irrigation systems, that assumption can be dangerously wrong. A recent CDC report serves as a stark reminder: using non-sterile water in these devices can introduce harmful microorganisms directly into your body, leading to severe—even fatal—infections.
The Hidden Risk in Everyday Water
Tap water is treated to be safe for drinking, but that doesn't mean it's sterile. It can still contain low levels of microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba—a free-living ameba found in soil and water. While harmless if swallowed, Acanthamoeba can become deadly when it gains access to the sinuses, eyes, or lungs, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
One such case recently made headlines:
In 2023, a patient in New Mexico tragically died from granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE) after regularly using tap water in both a nasal irrigation system and a CPAP machine. This rare but fatal brain infection was traced back to Acanthamoeba contamination. The water used in these devices was the likely route of entry.
Devices That Can Introduce Risk
Two commonly used home devices can inadvertently put users at risk:
-
CPAP Machines: Used by millions to treat obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP devices often include a humidifier chamber that users fill with water. Using tap water here can aerosolize pathogens and send them directly into the lungs.
-
Nasal Irrigation Devices: Devices like neti pots or squeeze bottles are popular for sinus relief. But rinsing your nasal passages with non-sterile water gives pathogens a direct route to sensitive tissues.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Anyone can be affected, but the following groups are especially vulnerable:
-
Immunocompromised individuals
-
People with chronic respiratory diseases
-
Post-surgical patients with nasal or sinus openings
-
Older adults with coexisting medical conditions
Prevention Is Simple—and Life-Saving
The good news? This kind of tragedy is completely preventable. Here’s how:
✅ Use Only Safe Water
Fill CPAP humidifiers and nasal rinse bottles with one of the following:
✅ Clean Devices Properly
Pathogen buildup doesn’t only depend on water quality—cleaning routines matter too. Learn how to properly clean your CPAP machine to prevent mold, bacteria, and mineral deposits from accumulating in your device.
✅ Avoid Complacency
Even if you’ve used tap water before without issues, don’t assume it’s safe long-term. Infections are rare but serious.
What If CPAP Isn’t Working for You?
CPAP therapy remains the gold standard for obstructive sleep apnea, but it's not always tolerated by everyone. If you or your patients are struggling with CPAP compliance, there are emerging options worth considering. For example, new research is exploring Terzepatide as a promising alternative for obstructive sleep apnea. While not a replacement for everyone, it's part of a growing conversation about personalized sleep apnea care.
In medicine, we often say that prevention is the best treatment. This is one of those cases where a small, inexpensive change in habit—choosing the right water and cleaning your device—can prevent life-threatening infections. If you or someone you know relies on a CPAP machine or nasal irrigation system, share this information. It could save a life.