Home Contact Sitemap login Checkout

1-866-521-2726

Contact Us

Patient Login

Free Shipping

Careers

Advanced Respiratory Care Network
  • Home
  • Respiratory Diagnostics
    • Respiratory Diagnostics
    • Allergy Testing
    • Pulmonary Function Testing
  • Oxygen Services
    • Oxygen Services
    • Home Oxygen Safety
    • Traveling with Home Oxygen
    • Home Oxygen Equipment
  • Sleep Apnea
    • Sleep Apnea
    • Symptoms
    • Diagnosis
    • Treatment
    • Tips for Sleep Apnea
    • Risk Factors and Identifiers
    • Sleep Education
      • Sleep Education
      • Humidity and CPAP
      • Improving Sleep Therapy
      • What to Expect
      • Choosing a Mask
      • Understanding Mask Leaks
      • Care of Equipment
      • Equipment Replacement
      • CPAP Treatment Tips and Benefits
      • Traveling with CPAP Equipment
      • Sleep Apnea and Cardiac Disease
      • Sleep Apnea and Diabetes
      • Sleep Apnea and Hypertension
      • Sleep Apnea and Stroke (Cerebrovascular Disease)
      • Video Links
    • Helpful Links
  • Sleep Diagnostics
    • Sleep Diagnostics
    • Full Sleep Studies
    • Portable Sleep Monitor
  • Cardiology
    • Cardiology
    • Cardiology Consultation
    • Cardiology Diagnostics
  • Shop
    • Shop
    • CPAP Masks
    • CPAP Parts
    • CPAP Accessories
    • CPAP and BiPAP Machines
  • Blog
Print This Page

Common Problems to Avoid with Your CPAP

There are many issues people can run into when they aren't familiar with their CPAP. We're here to help! Find the most common problems to avoid here.

CPAP

 

CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, is a form of therapy for individuals with sleep apnea. By placing a mask over your nose and mouth, the machine delivers constant air pressure and keeps your airway open while you sleep. CPAP therapy, while extremely beneficial and important for a restful night, does come with a few problems that can be avoided. 

 

1. Leaky Mask 

Most of the time, a leaky mask just means you have the wrong size or style. To make sure your CPAP mask fits properly, talk to your healthcare provider so they can give you recommendations. For example, if you have a smaller face, there are CPAP masks made specifically for those who need a smaller frame. If the mask is for your child, there are cute pediatric CPAP masks made just for them, too. It’s crucial for your mask to fit properly, otherwise, you won’t be getting the air pressure you need for CPAP therapy to be effective. 

 

2. Dry Mouth 

If you just started CPAP therapy, dry mouth is a very common struggle since you aren’t used to the air pressure. If your jaw opens during sleep, CPAP devices tend to worsen dry mouth which is why keeping your mouth closed at night can help. Find a mask that includes a chin strap which can help keep your mouth closed while you sleep. 

 

3. Compliance Issues 

It’s extremely common for individuals to struggle with getting used to using a CPAP machine at night, so don’t be alarmed. There are various tricks you can try to make the compliance process as smooth as possible: 

  • Start slowly by only wearing your mask during naps or while you’re relaxing, then slowly ease into wearing it at night. 
  • Do your research and read your machine manual to make sure you’re doing everything properly.
  • Make it part of your nighttime routine so you train your mind to get used to it.
  • Try relaxation techniques before bedtime to ease yourself into a restful state with your mask on. 

 

4. Stuffy Nose 

Many CPAP machines include an attachable heated humidifier which helps prevent dry, stuffy noses. Leaky masks can also lead to nose irritation, so remember to make sure your mask fits properly and there isn’t air leakage.  

 

5. Pressure Sores or Skin Irritation 

Wearing anything for an extended period of time can lead to irritation, and that’s especially true for something like a CPAP mask that you wear for hours at a time. Make sure you tell your doctor if you develop skin sores. One way to avoid this is to, once again, make sure your mask fits correctly or switch mask types altogether. Masks with nasal pillows are a great option if you’re struggling with skin irritation. 

 

Whether you were just diagnosed with sleep apnea and don’t know what to expect or you’ve been using CPAP therapy for a while and are experiencing issues, we’re here to help you through the process. Getting used to a CPAP machine isn’t easy, so feel free to contact us with any questions – we're happy to help! 

Contact Advanced Respiratory Care Network

1-866-521-2726


Visit Locations

Edmonton North
Edmonton South

Sherwood Park

Spruce Grove

Camrose
Red Deer

Calgary Northeast

Calgary Northwest

Calgary Southeast
Airdrie


SEE ALL LOCATIONS

Services

Respiratory Consultation & Diagnostics

Home & Travel Oxygen

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Sleep Consultation & Diagnostics

Cardiology Consultation & Diagnostics


Products

CPAP Masks
CPAP Parts
CPAP Accessories
CPAP and BiPAP Machines

Financial Services

Turn your healthcare expenses into easy monthly payments.


paybright

Copyright © 2023 ARC Network. All Rights Reserved.


Terms & Policies | Built on ShoutCMS