What Pro2 is Up2

Q: I wake up with water spraying all over my face and the CPAP machine is making a loud gurgling sound. What’s happening?

A: When the temperature drops in the fall and winter, many patients experience water condensation in their tubing and masks. The air from the CPAP is heated by a humidifier so it's warmer compared to the room temperature. As a result, condensation builds up inside the tubing and sometimes in the mask as well. When the air blows through the wet tubing, it creates a loud, gurgling sound.

Solutions:

• Lower the humidity settings on your humidifier.
• Insulate your tubing with a tube wrap or keep it underneath your covers.
• Increase the temperature in your bedroom.

Q: Since starting on CPAP, I’ve been having more stomach and gas pain. What should I do?

A: Occasionally, CPAP users will experience air trapping in the stomach and wake up with stomach pain or gas. First, make sure that you sleep with your head aligned with your body or try to elevate your head in with a wedge pillow. If that doesn't solve the problem, contact us and we can speak to your doctor about testing to make sure you are using the correct pressure.

Q: I started developing a rash on my face and behind my ears, could I be allergic to the mask?

A: CPAP masks are made of a medical grade silicone and are hypoallergenic. It's important to wash your mask with soap and water regularly to prevent oil build-up. The natural oils from our skin can cause the mask to deteriorate and also cause skin irritation and mask leaks. If you find that the headgear is irritating your skin, you can try using Snuggle Straps.

Q: I’ve been waking up with a stuffy and runny nose. Is the CPAP giving me an infection?

A: Nasal congestion and a runny nose are symptoms of a dry nasal passage. The pressure from the CPAP can be drying to your airway. When your nasal passage becomes dry, it becomes inflamed and produces more mucous. As a result, patients may experience nasal congestion, or a runny and itchy nose. Try increasing the setting on your humidifier slowly until the symptoms subside.

Q: I just started on CPAP therapy and I have trouble catching my breath when I’m using the CPAP. Is the pressure not strong enough?

A: In the beginning of therapy, it's common for patients to feel claustrophobic or feel air-starved. These sensations may not necessary mean that you aren't getting enough air, but that you are not yet accustomed to the CPAP pressure. The first 2 weeks are the toughest time for most patients. Practice wearing the CPAP while you watch TV to allow your body to adjust to the sensation. When you sleep with the CPAP at night, try to wear it as many hours as you can. As long as you keep using it, you body will gradually adjust to the pressure and having the apparatus on your face- and eventually your usage time will increase.



Troubleshooting CPAP Therapy. Retrieved September 29, 2014 from http://www.clinicalsleep.com/obstructive-sleep-apnea-cpap-therapy/troubleshooting-cpap-therapy.cfm.