Side Effects & Solutions

It's important to set healthy expectations around therapy and understand that your journey to better sleep may have a few bumps along the way.

Here are quick solutions for the most common CPAP side effects to help you get you back to refreshing, rejuvenating rest as fast as possible:

Dry Mouth and Nose

  • Possible Causes:
    • Insufficient humidity in CPAP air
    • Mouth breathing with a nasal mask
    • Air leaks from poor mask fit
  • Solutions:
    • Add or increase heated humidification
    • Try a full face mask if you're a mouth breather
    • Use a chin strap or mouth tape
    • Ensure proper mask fit to prevent air leaks
    • Replace cushion if old

Skin Irritation and Mask Discomfort

  • Possible Causes:
    • Over-tightened mask straps
    • Allergic reaction to mask materials
    • Buildup of oils and bacteria on the mask
  • Solutions:
    • Adjust mask fit for a secure but not tight seal
    • Try mask liners or cushion pads for sensitive skin
    • Clean your mask daily with gentle soap and warm water
    • Replace cushion if old
    • Consider a different mask material if allergies persist

Claustrophobia or Anxiety

  • Possible Causes:
    • Feeling confined by the mask
    • Discomfort with forced air
    • Adjusting to a new sleep routine
  • Solutions:
    • Start by wearing your mask for short periods during the day
    • Try a more compact mask style without a forehead support, like nasal pillows
    • Practice relaxation techniques before bedtime
    • Use your machine’s Ramp function to start at a lower pressure when falling asleep

Bloating and Gas

  • Possible Causes:
    • Swallowing air due to high pressure
    • Mouth breathing with a nasal mask
    • Difficulty exhaling against pressure
  • Solutions:
    • Work with your healthcare provider to adjust CPAP pressure
    • Use a chin strap or mouth tape with nasal masks
    • Experiment with your machine’s pressure relief function to reduce incoming pressure when exhaling
    • Consider the SleepRes V-Com to make breathing more comfortable

Eye Irritation

  • Possible Causes:
    • Mask air leaks directed towards eyes
  • Solutions:
    • Check and adjust headgear to eliminate air leaks
    • Clean or replace mask cushion
    • Try a different mask style or size if leaks persist
    • Use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops before bed
    • Consider a nasal pillow mask to minimize air flow near eyes

Remember, your CPAP journey is unique, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.

If these solutions don't provide the relief you need, don't hesitate to reach out to our CPAP Guides for personalized support.

Together, we can help you find the perfect combination of advice, accessories, and equipment to make CPAP therapy both comfortable and effective.

You deserve sleep, and we want to help you find your way back to it.