Solve Your CPAP Problems With These Tips

Breathing Against the Pressure

One of the hardest adjustments when you first begin is learning to breathe out against the pressure. Try setting the machine at a lower pressure when you first put it on. You can gradually raise the pressure as you start to fall asleep. This is known as a ramp function.

Some machines also have bi-level (BiPAP) or C-Flex settings. They alternate between inhalation and exhalation pressure so it's more like natural breathing.

Swallowing Air

Swallowing air is uncomfortable for some CPAP users. It may leave you feeling bloated or cause you to burp. This could mean your pressure is set too high.

To correct this, you may need to:

• Decrease the pressure
• Get a ramp pressure device
• Have a new CPAP titration study to find a better pressure level

Overcoming Claustrophobia

A CPAP device fits over your face. The snug fit makes some people feel stifled or smothered. That feeling may make your heart race. You might feel like tearing off the mask. Those are signs that you are having claustrophobia.

Some people overcome this by getting a mask that does not enclose the nose. Nasal pillows are good examples. Other people use relaxation or distraction techniques, such as watching TV or listening to music. These strategies help them gradually adjust to the sensation of wearing a mask.

Dealing With Condensation

Extra moisture in the air can make breathing more comfortable. But sometimes water droplets collect inside the CPAP tubing. This extra water can end up reducing your airflow. Too much moisture is a common complaint among those who use a heated humidifier and sleep in a cooler room.

To overcome this, turn down your humidifier temperature. You could also try to keep the CPAP tubing slightly warmer by putting it under blankets. Or you might opt for a newer CPAP unit with heated climate-adjusted tubing.

Developing a Dry Mouth

Your mouth shouldn't dry out when you use a CPAP machine. If it does, your mouth may be falling open with the mask on. When this happens, the airflow will escape from your mouth and make it very dry.

To prevent this, try:

• Using a heated humidifier
• Wearing a chin strap to keep the mouth closed
• Changing to a mask that covers the nose and mouth
• Speaking with your healthcare provider about adjusting the pressure setting on your machine

Smelling Unpleasant Odors

It is important to keep your CPAP equipment clean. Follow standard cleaning instructions regularly. If you don't, there is a chance that your mask and tubing may begin to smell funny. Cleaning is especially important if you have recently been sick.

If your CPAP mask develops a smell that won't go away, you may need new equipment. Any off-putting "new" smell should lessen over time.

Leaving Marks on Your Face

It is fairly common to get some minor pressure marks on your face when you wear a CPAP mask. If the marks are excessive, it may mean your mask doesn't fit properly. You may need to try a different size mask or choose a new mask altogether.

Some people find it helpful to switch between different mask types from one night to the next so that the pressure points vary. If your skin becomes irritated, try using a face cream or petroleum jelly to prevent abrasion. CPAP liners create a barrier between the mask and your skin.

Coping With Nasal Congestion

People with a deviated septum or a history of allergies or nasal congestion may find it harder to breathe through the nose with a CPAP mask.

A heated humidifier or saline nasal spray can sometimes open nasal passages. Oral antihistamines or a prescription nasal spray can help with chronic or seasonal allergies.

For those who simply cannot breathe through the nose, there are alternatives that may help. You could try a CPAP mask that covers the nose and mouth. You could also opt for a newer oral CPAP mask that delivers pressure through the mouth only. If those don't work, you may need to consider other treatments.

Waking With Dry, Red Eyes

Dry, red eyes may mean that air is leaking from your mask into your eyes while you sleep. To stop this, try tightening the mask slightly. If this does not work, you may need to find a better-fitting mask. Saline eye drops may also help ease some of the redness and discomfort.

Returning Symptoms

Excessive daytime sleepiness often decreases when you start using CPAP. Over time, however, symptoms can return for some people.

If this occurs, have your equipment checked to make sure it is delivering the prescribed pressure. It may also be necessary to have a new titration study to find a better pressure. As people age or have weight changes, the initial pressure setting may no longer be correct. It may need adjustment.

Summary

CPAP machines are a tried and true treatment for people with breathing problems. But that doesn't mean they are problem-free. Some problems occur because the pressure setting is too high. Others are related to a mask that doesn't fit quite right or trouble with the tubing. In some cases, other health conditions complicate the treatment. If you're having problems with your CPAP device, talk to your healthcare provider. A simple solution may be available to help you get a better night's sleep.