CPAP-side effects
CPAP treatment has relatively few side effects. Most of these problems can be solved by simple adjustments:
Headband marks or skin sores
This side effect is usually due to poor fit of the mask. These symptoms can be eliminated by re-adjusting or switching the type of mask used. You should also adjust the mask straps to make sure they are not too tight. Buying a soft CPAP headband to reduce the friction of the headband on the skin may also help.
Dry nose and sore throat
The humidifier connected to the CPAP device reduces dry nose and sore throat by providing cool or heated moisture to the air.
Stuffed nose, runny nose, and sneezing
The use of the saline nasal spray can relieve mild nasal congestion. Taking over-the-counter nasal decongestants is another option. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger congestive medicine.
Types of CPAP treatment
In addition to CPAP, there are several forms of positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. Various forms of CPAP treatment can keep the airway open by wearing a mask to provide airflow:
Automatic ventilator APAP
Automatic adjustment of positive airway pressure (APAP) therapy can automatically increase or decrease air pressure at night as needed.
Bi-level BPAP ventilator
The bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP) device has two alternating pressure levels. When you breathe in air, the pressure rises. The pressure decreases when you breathe. If CPAP or APAP cannot end your problem, your sleep doctor may recommend BPAP. If you suffer from sleep apnea and other respiratory diseases, your doctor may also recommend BPAP.
CPAP prompt
It may take some time to get used to CPAP treatment. Please follow the tips below to improve CPAP sleep quality:
When watching TV or reading a book during the day
When watching TV or reading a book during the day, please start using CPAP within a short time. This will help you get used to wearing a mask. When you try to fall asleep, it feels more natural. Make CPAP part of your bedtime. Use CPAP every night and every nap. This will make your body more adapted to the therapy. Make some small adjustments to increase your comfort. Adjust your oronasal mask and headgear until it fits. You can also try a special bed pillow shaped to fit the CPAP mask and catheter.
Make sure your mask is suitable
The most common problem of CPAP occurs when the mask is not installed properly. If the mask is too large, the straps of the mask need to be tightened. When the belt rubs your face, it may irritate your skin or cause sores. You can also buy a soft CPAP belt cover to reduce the friction of the belt on the skin. A mask that is too small will not seal properly, and air will leak from the edges. Air may blow into your eyes. If you have any problems, you may need to use another mask or headgear.
If you feel too stressed when trying to fall asleep
If you feel too stressed when trying to fall asleep, please use the “delayed boost” mode on your CPAP device. The delayed boost mode will start the device in a low-pressure setting and gradually increase the pressure over time. You should be able to fall asleep before the air pressure reaches an appropriate level.
Use the saline nasal spray to relieve mild nasal congestion. Nasal congestion may be a problem with CPAP treatment. Nasal sprays or congestants can help congest the nasal cavity or sinuses.
If the mouth, throat or nose is dry, use a humidifier. Many CPAP devices have heated humidifiers. It can ensure that you breathe warm and humid air through the mask.
Schedule regular cpap cleaning of equipment. Clean the mask, loop tube and headgear once a week. Put this time in your schedule so you don’t forget to do it.