Last updated on July 6th, 2023 at 03:46 pm
CPAP therapy is a leading treatment option for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Standing for continuous positive airway pressure, CPAP therapy keeps the airways open at night by supplying a constant supply of air through a mask worn while sleeping.
The equipment can take some getting used to, but persistence is paramount as sleep apnoea can lead to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke.
There may be issues, particularly in the beginning as you adapt to wearing a mask while you sleep. However, the good news is if you do experience problems, alternative options are often available, which should be discussed with your doctor.
Listed below are ten of the more common CPAP therapy problems.
- 1. Breathing Difficulties When people begin to use the CPAP therapy device they can find it difficult to get get used to the pressure of the air being forced through the mask and in to the nose. They can find they are breathing out against the air pressure.The settings on the machine can cause this problem, particularly if it is set to a high pressure. Newer machines have a “ramp” setting feature, which begins with a low pressure setting, before building slowly to the prescribed setting as you fall asleep.
- 2. Mask Size Matters A CPAP mask should fit properly and you should have the mask which suits the shape of your face. If the mask is too large air will leak, leading to discomfort and if too small you can end up with pressure sores. A range of masks are available to try and you should bear in mind weight loss and more facial hair can affect the comfort of an existing mask. Masks can cover the nose or mouth and also have different straps, so be sure to find the one which works for you.
- 3. Feeling Claustrophobic If you are wary of wearing a mask or have found it claustrophobic when on you can try getting used to it while awake. If this is still difficult to adapt to, try just holding the mask up to your face with the tube attached and once this is acceptable try adding the straps.Wear the mask around the house and wear it for a while in bed before you go to sleep, perhaps while reading. Such anxiety is normal — but if you cannot find a way to be rid of any feeling of claustrophobia, you may need another mask size and should consult your doctor.
- 4. Struggling to SleepThis can be a common problem as your brain takes a little time to adjust to the forced air pressure and you remain awake a little longer than you would normally. However if you continue to struggle to fall asleep you should ensure the basic conditions are right to encourage sleep. Only go to bed when actually tired, sleep on a good comfortable mattress and in a dark bedroom.Exercise will help relax you, while you should avoid drinks such as coffee and alcohol prior to going to bed and also resist the temptation to use a computer or phone when in bed.
- 5. Nose and Mouth Issues The pressurised air from the CPAP machine is dry and cool which can cause a stuffy nose for some and a runny, congested nose for others. This can be down to an ill-fitting mask leaking air, but if the mask is fine you could try a saline spray. Machines which come with a humidifier often help remove this issue. If you experience a dry mouth only you may find you are breathing through the mouth, meaning the treatment is less effective, for which a chin strap may help.
- 6. Irritation of the Skin and Eyes Most issues with irritation is down to the mask not fitting well and you should look for a better fitting alternative. An ill-fitting mask can also see air forced in to the eyes, irritating them and making them dry or teary. You could try adjusting the straps first to see if this improves matters, but be aware if they are too tight they can lead to pressure sores. A nasal pillow device could be considered, which fits below the nose and has less strapping.
- 7. AnxietyBesides the anxiety of claustrophobia, the thought of needing to use a CPAP therapy device and mask throughout your life can cause understandable anxiety. It is a similar feeling of dread to when people realise they require tablets or an inhaler every day for the rest of their lives.CPAP therapy requires a positive attitude, especially to begin with as you get used to the adjustment. Any time you feel negative towards it you should recall it is a prescribed treatment, which you require for a reason. Consider the alternative of not having the therapy to help you and think about the difference it has already made to the quality of your life.
- 8. Potential Noise The majority of modern CPAP therapy machines are almost silent, but some of the older machines emit a humming sound or vibrate. If you have an older machine you can try and ask for a more recent model.If the noise is a whistling sound it could mean the tiny exhalation ports of the mask are clogged up and need cleaning with something like a toothpick. The machine filters can also generate noise if not regularly changed, but any persistent noise should be referred to the suppliers.
- 9. Awaking to Find the Mask is Off Every now and again you may wake up to find you have unintentionally removed or knocked your CPAP mask off in the night. If you move a lot when you sleep you may find you are better off with a full-face mask to reduce the chance of it being removed.A chin strap may also help, though you may be pulling the mask off in the night if it is ill-fitting and the nose has become congested, for which you should find a more suitable mask to wear. If the mask being removed is a persistent issue, you could set an alarm during the night to check it is still on — though this would need to be agreed with your partner first.
- 10. Partner Pressure Most partners should and will be supportive of your use of CPAP therapy for the vital health benefits it offers. However, it can be difficult for them to adjust to the equipment too and you should consider this and discuss with them thoroughly when looking at CPAP therapy as a treatment option. It may be best for them to come with you to the doctor or sleep clinic when discussing the therapy. Ultimately it beats the heavy snoring, which should disappear.
The Rewards Are Worth The Effort!
CPAP therapy requires adjustments and persistence, but the rewards should be noticeable fairly instantly. Obstructive sleep apnoea causes disruption to your daily life in terms of constant fatigue and concentration difficulties. Left untreated it can result in serious health problems. When you are having moments of doubt in the therapy it is important to remember why you were prescribed the treatment and the positive effects it should have on your health, energy levels and overall quality of life.
If you do experience any issues using your CPAP machine you should not just put up with it. A solution will invariably be available, as the efficient application of the therapy equipment is key to its success.
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