Problems with CPAP or BiPAP
The most common problems are:
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Mouth air leaks:
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Dry mouth is the main symptom
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Causes poor sleep quality,
morning tiredness
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Difficult to treat,
treatments are:
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Full face masks, chin
straps, or lowering the pressure
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Mask discomfort:
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Any discomfort will wake you up!
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Try to make the mask comfortable with adequate air seal
before you fall asleep
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May need to exchange your mask
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Claustrophobia:
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Certain masks cause less claustrophobia, i.e nasal
pillows
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Ask your doctor or the sleep center regarding CPAP
desensitization
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Excessive pressure or difficulty exhaling:
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Your doctor may temporarily
lower the pressure to make it more tolerable. This may be
increased later.
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Certain machines have a
pressure release technology to make it more comfortable.
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BiPAP machines lower
pressures for easier exhalation. They require your
insurance's approval. But, these machines may be louder,
heavier, or more expensive.
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Water condensation inside the CPAP tubing:
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This is a winter's problem, it
should resolve when the room temperature gets warmer in spring
and summer.
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Use an insulation or a cover for
the CPAP tubing.
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Decrease the temperature of the
heated humidifier.
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Put the machine at a lower level
than the bed.
Water should drain back to the
humidifier chamber.
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Use a longer hose and leave it
next to your body. Your body will keep the tube warm.
