CPAP machines: Tips for avoiding 10 common problems
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
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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
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By Mayo Clinic Staff
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This condition occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airway. People with OSA repeatedly stop and start breathing while sleeping. A CPAP machine uses a hose connected to a mask or nosepiece to deliver constant and steady air pressure to help you breathe without interruption while you sleep.
Common problems with CPAP include a leaky mask; trouble falling asleep; a stuffy, runny or dry nose; and a dry mouth.
If you have any of these problems in the first two weeks of starting CPAP therapy, call your healthcare professional or CPAP supplier. Remember that if your first mask or machine doesn't work for you, there are many other types of masks and machines to try. Most CPAP masks can be adjusted to help make them more comfortable. Your care team can help you adjust your mask and machine. Getting the right fit, mask and machine early on increases your chance of long-term success with CPAP therapy.
Here are 10 common CPAP problems and what you can do about them:
