CPAP MASK

CPAP masks can cause brand new problems for sufferers of sleep apnea, as well as being therapy for the old problems.   But small aggravations are no excuse for not wearing  your CPAP mask.  If you stop using your CPAP mask you won’t be able to get anyone to travel with you due to the loud, obnoxious snoring they have to listen to.  Not to mention worrying about you because you gasp for air all night long!!

Here are some remedies to the most common problems you will suffer as a user of CPAP:

Difficulty adjusting to the presence of the mask

Don’t worry.  The majority of users find it difficult to adjust.  One way to get used to the mask is to wear it for short periods of time during the day while you are awake.  After you feel comfortable wearing CPAP when you are awake, use it at night when you sleep.  Be patient and you will get adjusted to it in time.

“I Can’t stand the Pressure!”

If you find it uncomfortable to go to sleep with the pressure setting you have, use a ramp feature that will increase the pressure over a set period of time.  Hopefully, you will be asleep before it gets to the maximum for you.  If it is still hard to breathe against your prescribed pressure, it may be time to talk with you physician about a BiLevel machine.  With a BiLevel machine you will get less pressure when you exhale, which many patients find to be a more comfortable option.

Dry Mouth, Stuffy Nose

Try a heated humidifier.  It may already be built into your machine.  If not, you can buy one to attach to your unit.  Other options would be to use a nasal steroid or a nasal saline spray.   A chin strap may help keep your mouth closed and alleviate some of the dryness there.

It takes time to adjust to wearing CPAP masks.  Remember… you are not alone and there are techniques to help you get through the rough times you may experience in the beginning.