Articles
CPAP machines: Tips for avoiding 10 common problems
10. Annoyed by the noise
Time and patience key to success
2. Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP device
9. Unintentionally removing the CPAP device during the night
3. Difficulty tolerating forced air
7. Difficulty falling asleep
Content
1. The wrong size or style CPAP mask
2. Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP mask
3. Bothered by the forced air
4. Dry, stuffy nose
5. Feeling claustrophobic
6. Leaky mask, skin irritation or pressure sores
7. Trouble falling asleep
8. Dry mouth
9. Accidentally removing the CPAP mask during the night
10. Bothersome noise
Time and patience are key to success
Time and patience key to success
2. Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP device
9. Unintentionally removing the CPAP device during the night
3. Difficulty tolerating forced air
7. Difficulty falling asleep
Content
1. The wrong size or style CPAP mask
2. Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP mask
3. Bothered by the forced air
4. Dry, stuffy nose
5. Feeling claustrophobic
6. Leaky mask, skin irritation or pressure sores
7. Trouble falling asleep
8. Dry mouth
9. Accidentally removing the CPAP mask during the night
10. Bothersome noise
Time and patience are key to success
4. Dry, stuffy nose
Check to make sure your mask fits well. A leaky mask can dry out your nose. If you have to tighten the straps often to prevent air leakage, the mask does not fit properly. Changing from a nasal mask to one that fits over both mouth and nose also could help with stuffiness in the nose, called congestion.
Many CPAP machines come with a heated humidifier, which attaches to the air pressure machine. This helps prevent dry nose or congestion. You can adjust the level of humidification. Using a nasal saline spray at bedtime also can help your symptoms. Your care team may prescribe medicines for congestion to help you breath freely through your nose.
