I saw the forum column on power input to my CPAP but there was no discussion on the ability to get distilled water. Is it easily available like it is in the US or should I plan on sucking dry air? We'll be staying at the Hotel Lancelot.
nrc, you didn't mention a city. But most big cities have supermarkets, or even Big Box stores that sell distilled water in multi-liter containers. Just be careful that you don't buy, say, Lavender distilled water meant for steam irons! Just like in the US, you might have to look near the drinking water, near the baby supplies, or near the housewares. In a rural area, you might need a car to find it. Of course,you could check in a Pharmacy, but that would, just like here, be the most expensive option.
I don't use CPAP myself, but I would mention that I carry a water boiler hot-pot for a different medical purpose. I wonder if your doctor would approve of boiling low-mineral bottled spring water? I'm ignorant, just asking.
Edit: The boiled water is for rinsing my sinuses. I have boiled bottled drinking water for this dozens of times, including in China (where I boiled it twice) and St. Petersburg.
Thanks, I forgot to mention we're going to Rome. The distilled water is a safety issue. Bacteria that will die in your stomach can kill you if they get into your sinuses. I appreciate your help.
In Rome or anywhere in Italy, look for "acqua distillata" in grocery stores. supermarkets, pharmacies.
I had a very enjoyable stay at the Hotel Lancelot in 2014. The bath was very small, but serviceable. They had a very good chef, hopefully he's still there. Several of us ate 2 or more dinners at the hotel. The only hotel in Europe I've eaten anything other than breakfast in.
Thanks!
If you buy distilled water in a regular grocery store it is likely the water for pressing iron use.
The recommended water for CPAP in Italy is called ACQUA DEMINERALIZZATA (or DISTILLATA) STERILE PER INALAZIONI (sterile demineralized/distilled water for inhalation) and is available in all pharmacies. I doubt you can find that easily in regular stores, which primarily have only the one for irons.
Of course, if you forget to stop by the pharmacy, you can always use bottled water or tap water (Italy has safe water so don’t worry about bacteria killing you), however prolonged use of regular water is not recommended because the minerals present in water may obtruct the CPAP machine.
Distilled water is in the section with cleaning products. DOC, Conrad, and Despar stores should all have it.
I have had to buy distilled water in many countries in Europe for my friend's CPAP machine. I agree with Roberto - it's best to just go to a pharmacy to get it.
We have never had a problem finding distilled water for my husband's CPAP machine anywhere in Europe - including Italy. Don't worry about it.
We've stayed at Hotel Lancelot on two occasions, a week each. You will like this hotel! Mrs. Kahn, the owner, or her daughter or front desk staff can certainly direct you to the closest pharmacy.
On our first trip to Rome Mrs. Kahn recommended a restaurant to us. It is our favorite and we have eaten there numerous times. Hostaria da Nerone. They can give you directions. They are not open on Sunday.
Have a Great Trip!