CPAP, BiPAP, Auto CPAP (APAP), Auto SV and Adapt SV Therapy
COMMON CONCERNS AND TIPS TO HELP
I. Nasal stuffiness or congestion – Usually resolved by:
- Increasing humidity
- Prescribed nasal steroids
- Oral antihistamines/decongestants
II. Dry mouth – Usually resolved by:
- Chin strap
- Mask that covers nose and mouth
- Proper humidification
III. Mask leak – Symptoms include:
- red eyes
- loss of beneficial effect of PAP
- recurrence of snoring and apnea
Usually resolved by:
- Cleaning mask daily
- Contacting durable medical equipment company
- Refitting mask; adjusting headgear
- Using PAP pillow
IV. Redness on face or nose – Usually resolved by:
- Properly fitting the mask.
- Products that cushion the nose, forehead and sides of face (see resources)
- Contacting your DME provider to assure size and adjustment of mask.
- Placing paper tape over red areas. Although unusual, mask allergies are possible.
- If redness continues, call your DME company.
V. Too much pressure; typically noticed when first using PAP.
Suggestions:
- If the air pressure is keeping you from falling asleep, try wearing the machine for short periods of time during the day or while watching television to get used to it.
- Usually improves after developing tolerance for PAP. If pressure intolerance persists after 5 nights of use, call your sleep specialist or DME company.
MASKS
Finding the proper mask will be one of the challenges you will face with use of your PAP machine. It is important not to get discouraged if you need to try a variety of masks. All of our faces are different and it may take a few tries to find the mask that works for you.
Don’t give up!
