While some people find side effects of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) treatment unpleasant, it is quite useful for managing obstructive sleep apnea. But fortunately, most problems can be solved by good adjustments. In this article, common CPAP side effects and advice to help prevent them are discussed.
Dry Nasal Symptoms:
Upon awakening, most CPAP users find this normal side effect. The air pressure of the CPAP apparatus could be drying out your nasal passage to the point of inflammation, which could also cause a parched throat to develop. Untreated, it can also cause nose hemorrhaging. The machine’s air from the mask is quite dry; this may cause a burning feeling in the lungs. These symptoms can be reduced to a great extent by using high-quality equipment from CleanCPAP.
Claustrophobia:
For people already susceptible, another standard side effect of CPAP machines is to worsen claustrophobia. As the mask fits closely over the nose and covers a large area of the face, it may cause discomfort even in people not originally claustrophobic. Using a full mask especially would raise your risk of developing claustrophobia.
Choosing a nasal pillow cover is a great idea since it does not totally cover the face. It might be better to give the ‘one step at a time’ strategy a shot if a full mask has been prescribed by your doctor. Before trying to sleep all night, start wearing the full facial mask during naps. On the other side, wear the mask during free time activities such as viewing TV or reading.
Rash Irritation and Pressure Sores:
The CPAP mask should fit well but not too tight. A too tight mask can lead to irritation, red marks, and even bedsores. To prevent this, make sure the straps are securely in place. Use cushions or mask liners to help alleviate skin friction. Switching to a different kind of mask such a nasal pillow or one with softer padding could help if irritation persists. Frequent washing of the mask also stops skin irritation created by bacteria accumulation.
Mask Discomfort And Air Leaks:
A mask that is poorly fitted can lead air leaks that lower treatment effectiveness and result in a loud or unpleasant experience. See that the mask shape and size suit your face perfectly. If leaks keep happening, consider an alternate design like a full-face, nasal pillow, or hybrid mask. Regularly replacing frayed mask cushions and headgear aids to keep a good seal.
Dry Mouth:
Some CPAP machines can aggravate dry mouth if you sleep with your mouth open or breathe through your mouth at night. Using a chin strap while wearing a nasal mask may help to keep your mouth shut and therefore lessen the air leak. You might also benefit from a machine equipped with a complete face mask covering your nose and mouth. Another aid is a CPAPheated humidifier that links to the air pressure machine.
Aerophagia:
Swallowing too much air causes aerophagia. Aerophagia might cause someone stomach pains, flatulence, and belching as air accumulates in the digestive tract. Swallowing pressurized air from the CPAP device causes aerophagia in around 16 percent of users. Some CPAP patients could find relief from aerophagia in changing to an automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) machine. APAP changes air pressure levels based on the sleeper’s breathing and snoring; CPAP uses the same level of air pressure continuously.
Infections:
CPAP machine users could grow sinusitis or upper respiratory infections. While a person breathes during sleep, microbes in the mouth, throat, and lungs may enter the CPAP mask or tube. The mask or hose can also get allergens like dust and mold. Failure to clean a CPAP machine thoroughly may cause germs and allergens to accumulate within the unit and therefore sicken someone.
