The 3 Most Common Sleep Apnea Struggles I Have Seen as a Respiratory Therapist
Key Takeaways
- As a respiratory therapist, the three most common struggles related to CPAP therapy include mask discomfort, dryness, and claustrophobia.
- Solutions to common CPAP struggles include switching to a lightweight mask, using humidification, and using the ramp feature.
- It may take a few changes, but most people adjust to CPAP therapy within a few weeks.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains the top treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Without proper treatment, OSA can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and increased accidents. Another alarming fact is that untreated sleep apnea increases your risk of obesity, a heart attack, and a stroke. CPAP therapy can reduce those risks and improve sleep quality.
As a respiratory therapist, I have seen how CPAP helps. But I have also seen the struggles that may occur when someone starts CPAP therapy. The struggles are often predictable and common among new CPAP users.
Common Sleep Apnea Struggles
Although patients differ, there are typical CPAP struggles, including those listed below.
Mask Discomfort
One of the biggest hurdles for CPAP users is mask discomfort. A CPAP mask needs to be tight enough to reduce air leaks. But for some people, that can feel uncomfortable.
Most people are not used to sleeping with something strapped to their face. So, it takes some getting used to. Depending on the type of mask you use, it may seal against the bridge of the nose, the upper lip, and the cheeks. If there is not enough cushion or if the straps are adjusted too tightly, it can create discomfort. This may lead to red marks, soreness, and skin irritation.
Adding to the mask discomfort is the delivery of the pressurized air, which may feel unnatural. Air leaks around the mask can also contribute to mask discomfort.
Dryness and Congestion
Dryness and congestion are also common side effects that may make it hard for someone to adhere to their treatment. As CPAP delivers positive air pressure into the airway, it pushes air across the nasal lining.
The continuous flow of air throughout the night can pull moisture from the mucous membranes in the nose. This can lead to nasal dryness and congestion. People who are mouth breathers can also develop a dry mouth.
It is common for people using CPAP to develop a dry, stuffy nose, especially when they first start using it. Even though most CPAP machines have a humidifier, it may take a little time to learn how to adjust it to the right level.
Anxiety and Claustrophobia
Not all struggles with CPAP are physical side effects. One of the most common problems with new CPAP users is anxiety or feeling claustrophobic. For some people, as soon as the mask is on their face, they start to feel anxious and feel as if they are not getting enough air in.
As a respiratory therapist, I often notice shallow, rapid breathing and an increased heart rate when people put on a CPAP mask.
How to Address Common Sleep Apnea Difficulties
Fortunately, most people can make adjustments and stick with CPAP therapy. Below are ways to address the common CPAP struggles.
Mask adjustments: Part of the discomfort of a CPAP mask might be adjusting it too tightly. While it needs to be tight enough to prevent a leak, it should not be uncomfortable. It may also be helpful to try different types of masks to determine which is the most comfortable. Lightweight, minimal CPAP masks are an option. Using the ramp feature available on many CPAP machines may also help decrease the feeling of unnatural pressure entering.
Humidification to combat dryness: One of the quickest fixes to combat dryness from CPAP is to adjust humidification settings. Humidification levels may need to be increased or adjusted seasonally. For example, during the cold winter months, when the air is drier, you may need to adjust humidification levels. Adjust humidification in increments to avoid excess moisture.
You can also address how dry your home is. The dryer the room air, the more dry air enters the CPAP. Consider running a humidifier in the bedroom, lowering excess heat, and avoiding sleeping directly in front of a fan.
Want to learn more about how to stop CPAP dryness? Read this blog post.
Claustrophobia solutions: To decrease anxiety and claustrophobia, it may be helpful to gradually adjust to your CPAP machine. This may include desensitization, such as wearing the mask for a half hour while awake and gradually increasing the time.
Trying a different mask that feels less confining may also help. Nasal masks and nasal pillows may give a more open feel and help with claustrophobia.
Lastly, give yourself a little time to adjust to CPAP. In most cases, a little trial and error and a few changes can help make CPAP more comfortable.
How The CPAP Shop Can Help You
Using CPAP should not become a nightly battle. Most CPAP struggles are fixable. At The CPAP Shop, you will find a mask selection guide, different mask styles, and comfort accessories. We offer clinically trusted resources to optimize comfort and help you stay on track with your CPAP therapy. For assistance, give our customer care team a call at 866-414-9700.
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