Common Problems of CPAP and Tips to Avoid Them-Part 2

Hopefully you found my previous article on the above topic helpful, since I could not cover all of the problems in one article I decided to split it into two parts. This article will be a continuation of the first.

Other Common Problems

1. 1.Mask leakage, skin irritation and sores due to pressure:  If your CPAP mask does not fit youproperly it will cause the pressurized air to leak. This pressurized air will cause irritation on your skin. Additionally if this air reaches your eyes, it can cause them to become teary or excessively dry. You may also come across sores on your nose and face. If you face any of the above problems, contact your doctor promptly. 

   

All of the above can be prevented if your mask fits you properly. So try adjusting the mask straps to get the perfect fit or purchase another mask of a different style.

2.Difficulty in Sleeping: If you find it difficult to sleep with the CPAP mask don’t worry. This is a normal and temporary problem faced by all new users. It will take a few days for you to get used to the machine. To make the process easier, you should wear the mask during the daytime for an hour to get used to its feel and use the “ramp” feature provided in the machine. Additionally good sleeping habits should be inculcated. Regular exercise, avoiding caffeine and alcohol at nights, and a warm bath are some good sleep habits.

3.Dryness in the mouth: This problem occurs, if you breathe through your mouth or sleep with your mouth open. The pressurized air tends to cause the dry mouth. To prevent this you can try:

• Using a heated humidifier along with your CPAP.
• A full-face mask.
• A chin strap which will help to close your mouth while sleeping.

4.Accidental CPAP removal: Some people tend to remove the CPAP mask at night. While unintentional, it will prevent efficacy of the treatment. If you find that you regularly wake up to a removed mask, try using a chin strap, a full face mask and ensure that the mask is tightly fitted to your face. Another option is to keep alarms at regular intervals in the night to wake up and check if your mask is placed properly. These alarms can be gradually weaned off as the number of times you remove the mask decreases.

5.Noise: The latest models of CPAP hardly make any noise. However if you find that the noise made by the CPAP machine prevents you from sleeping try checking the air filter. Ensure that the air filter is clean and unblocked, this will allow for unobstructed flow of air thus preventing noise. If this does not stop the noise, have your CPAP supplier or your doctor check the CPAP machine. Even if this does not help, purchase a white-noise sound machine or use earplugs.

The Keys to Success:

It may be frustrating and annoying to use the CPAP device, due it is important to stick to it. The CPAP is the best non surgical cure for your Sleep Apnea, so you should use it to prevent the side effects of Sleep Apnea. No matter the problem you face it can be sorted out, to find the perfect fit and settings requires time and patience. Thus the keys to success with the CPAP are patience and time.

So ensure that you are patient and stick to the process. At the end of it you will find the perfect fit, be able to sleep peacefully.