Frequently Asked Questions about CPAP and Sleep Apnea

What are the common side effects of CPAP?
What is CPAP/ BiPAP and how will it help me?
The mask they gave me wasn’t very comfortable, are there different ones I can try?

Is this something I will need to wear for the rest of my life?
I travel a lot; do I have to take the PAP with me?
What happens if I decide PAP isn’t for me?

What are the common side effects of CPAP therapy and how can they be avoided?

With good preparation, patient education and a bit of trial and error, CPAP therapy can be a comfortable experience for anyone. However, at times you may experience any of the following. Below are the most common side effects of using a CPAP machine and how patients can avoid them:

Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion is a common complaint among CPAP machine users. This is mainly because there is lack of adequate moisture in the air that you breathe in. Diet can also add to mucous build-up in the sinuses.
A humidifier could help improve such issues. You can use an insulating cover for your CPAP hose to prevent condensation whenever you use a heated humidifier. Nasal sprays or nasal irrigation with dedicated machines such as a Hydro Pulse can effectively drain and clear up the sinus airways.

Dry eyes

Some people who uses CPAP machines and masks observe that their eyes tend to dry out in the morning. This is caused by air leaking from your oversized CPAP mask. This issue can be resolved by getting a CPAP mask that fits you.

Measuring your facial features can best help you choose the right size of CPAP mask. You can use a nasal pillow and cushion devices for a better fit. Also make sure that you would not tighten your headgear too much as it may cause bruises and sores.

Allergies

You may begin to notice break outs in areas that surround your nose. Allergies may appear as rashes or skin reddening. Sometimes the forehead area may also show signs of breakouts.

Most people who experience breakouts may be allergic to silicone. Washing your masks thoroughly every so often can also help eliminate such problem. You can soak your CPAP mask in warm water with mild soap.

Sores

Some people observe that their facial skin begins to get sore when using CPAP masks. This may be because of over-tightening of your headgear straps. If left untreated, it may even lead to bruising.

To prevent sore breakouts, the best thing to do is to choose the right size of CPAP mask. Choosing the right style of CPAP mask can also be a great help. A nasal pillow device can be a better alternative if sores occur.

Headache

Some people with OSA can feel air in their stomach the next morning. This is a sign that you swallowed air from the CPAP machine.

A good sleeping position can help you with this problem. Always sleep in a flat position. If this doesn’t work, you can try sleeping on your side. You can also discuss your discomfort with your doctor who can prescribe a reduced air pressure for your CPAP machine.

What is CPAP / Auto-PAP and how will it help me?

CPAP is an acronym for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. By applying a positive pressure into the back of your throat, it will keep your airways from collapsing while you sleep.

APAP (or Auto-PAP) is an acronym for Auto-titrating Positive Airway Pressure. This is the most innovative technology (available for about 5 years). The machine monitor your breathing and adjusts the pressure to the patient's need based on optimal and critical pressure levels.

The mask I got wasn’t comfortable, are there different ones I can try?

Yes, there are many different types and sizes of masks. Our CPAP Counselor can work with you to find the most comfortable for you and we will replace the mask you didn't like FRE of charge with another new mask. We will provide you with training on how to use the equipment with follow up visits to make sure you are successful.

Is this something I will need to wear for the rest of my life?

PAP therapy is a lifetime treatment for most patients. It remains the gold standard and the most effective treatment for sleep apnea.

I travel a lot, do I have to take the PAP with me?

Today’s equipment is both small and lightweight. Most people take their PAP unit wherever they travel to so that they don’t miss out on a good nights sleep.

What happens if I decide PAP isn’t for me?

What ever your decision is, you should at least try it for a month or two. If after trying it and deciding it’s not for you, you should at least look into other treatment options. Sleep apnea, if left untreated can lead to more serious problems later in life. What ever you do, you should discuss this with your physician.