CPAP Machine Problems
Adjusting to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
CPAP masks and machines can cause a range of problems that impair sleep apnea treatment, including dry mouth, discomfort, skin irritation and claustrophobia.
The CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure machine) is considered the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment. Proper use of a CPAP machine can alleviate sleep apnea symptoms and help prevent health complications caused by the sleep disorder. It can be difficult, however, to adjust to sleeping with a CPAP mask. If these problems are not resolved successfully, many people who could benefit from CPAP treatment give up on continuous positive airway pressure as a sleep apnea treatment.
Dry Mouth
A dry mouth is a common side effect of CPAP treatment, especially if you sleep with your mouth open. A chin strap can help keep your mouth closed, and some CPAP machines include humidifiers that help prevent dry mouth.
CPAP Mask Discomfort and Insomnia
Wearing a CPAP mask to bed feels uncomfortable initially. Your freedom of movement is limited by the hose connecting the mask to the CPAP machine. The CPAP mask and hose can interfere with your normal sleeping position, and it takes time to adapt to sleeping in a new position. Some trouble sleeping and insomnia is normal as you become familiar with the CPAP.
If insomnia or discomfort continues, you have several options. The CPAP mask may not be the best choice for your face, in which case a different model often improves the situation. CPAP mask straps can sometimes be too tight, which causes discomfort, or too lax, in which case the continuous positive airway pressure system will be unable to treat sleep apnea symptoms.
Skin Problems and CPAP
Skin problems are another result of ill-fitting or overly tight CPAP masks. Allergies and sensitivities to mask material may result in redness where the mask touches the skin. A different mask model often resolves this issue.
Ill-fitting masks result in pressure sores and skin irritation. Readjusting your mask with the help of your sleep physician can help. Don't use normal skin moisturizers to control the problem: petroleum based moisturizers can damage CPAP masks. Special moisturizers are available that are designed with CPAP masks in mind. Ask your doctor about these moisturizers if you need them, and be sure to report any signs of skin deterioration or ulceration to your doctor.
Inconsistent CPAP Use
Inconsistent use of the CPAP machine is perhaps the most common reason continuous positive airway pressure treatment fails. In order to be effective, the CPAP machine needs to be worn every time you sleep. Only using the CPAP machine every two or three days while do nothing to resolve sleep apnea symptoms or prevent future health complications. As with so many medical treatments, consistency is the key to successful sleep apnea treatment.
People often wake up to discover that, sometime during the night, they removed their CPAP mask. This is especially common in the first weeks of CPAP use, while people are getting used to wearing the masks. Wear the mask for as long as you can every night, gradually increasing the length of time you keep the mask on. Some people start by wearing the mask for periods while they are awake, to get used to the new sensation.
Pressure Problems and BiPAP Solutions
Continuous positive airway pressure uses a constant flow of air to keep the airways from collapsing. The lungs exhale against the extra pressure the airflow causes. Some people cannot adapt to breathing out against the CPAP machine airflow. Others find the air pressure causes insomnia or prevents them from entering deep sleep.
If CPAP pressure is a problem, the solution may lie with a BiPAP machine. Unlike continuous positive airway pressure systems, a BiPAP machine has two pressure settings: a higher air pressure for inhalation, and a lower pressure for exhalation.
CPAP Claustrophobia
Close fitting CPAP masks can produce feelings of claustrophobia in some people. Claustrophobia causes anxiety, which is counterproductive to a good night's sleep. Feeling anxious and claustrophobic every time you wear a CPAP mask isn't a good motivation to continue treatment!
If you do experience claustrophobia while wearing a CPAP mask, ask your doctor about nasal pillow CPAP masks, and consider relaxation exercises before bedtime.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this article is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute in any way for care and treatment by a qualified health professional.
Resources
American Academy of Family Physicians. (updated June 2007). CPAP Devices for Sleep Apnea.
CPAP Station. (n.d.). FAQs: Common Problems and Their Solutions.
WebMD. (updated 13 July 2007). Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (18 December 2007). CPAP Devices: Tips for Avoiding 10 Common Problems.
