Managing CPAP Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks can be common among people who are first starting CPAP therapy. According to a 2012 study at the University of California, Berkeley, when a person has an apnea, their body releases certain hormones of anxiety and panic to try to restore breathing. In addition, people who suffer from panic attacks, in general, are more likely to have episodes while trying to fall asleep or while sleeping.
Having a CPAP mask covering your face is a new sensation that needs a small adjustment period. Since, in general, most users are not used to having something cover their face, it can understandably lead to feelings of suffocation. The reality is, though, that if you have sleep apnea and are not wearing a CPAP mask, your risk from suffocation is immeasurably greater.
User Feedback
Users on various CPAP support forums have some great advice about how to avoid panic attacks, and they speak from experience. "Janknitz" suggests really examining your full face mask. When you can see that the mask incorporates a valve that lets fresh air in from around you, not just from the machine, you'll know that you can't suffocate with the mask on even if the machine somehow stops working. She also suggests wearing your mask during the day while doing something quiet, like reading or watching TV, in order to get more familiar with it.
"Johud" has been using a CPAP machine for 15 years, and at the beginning, he had a hard time getting acclimated to his mask. His doctor suggested wearing it for ten minutes at a time while watching TV, which Johud says really helped him. On another note, "brokencrayola" is very claustrophobic, so she uses a nasal mask instead of a full face mask.
Speaking of which, CPAP users who report having trouble with panic attacks have mixed mask reviews. The user mentioned above finds that the nasal mask, rather than the full face mask, is better for her because she can open her mouth to breathe if she really needs to. Other users say, however, that the chin strap that can be used with the nasal mask makes them feel trapped, and that the full face mask is much more comfortable.
What we can take from this is that every person is different and that a mask choice is a very personal decision. It may take a few tries to find the perfect mask which not only provides comfort but also eases any strong negative reactions. But it's vital to keep trying until you figure out what works best for your particular situation. It may not be the same mask that works for your friend or relative, but the important thing is that the mask works for you.
Try Breathing Exercises
Another way to become more comfortable with your mask choice is by doing breathing exercises. Slowly inhale for four seconds, then exhale for four seconds. Count to ten and focus on breathing if you feel yourself start to get panicky with your mask on. When your body realizes it can breathe through the mask, it won't instinctively tense up.
Moreover, turn the CPAP on to feel how your body reacts to the feel of the pressure. It will give your brain an understanding of how the machine will work and feel while in use. Remember that an automatic machine only ramps up its pressure when necessary. So do not be alarmed if you have the mask on while your awake and the pressure is very low. The machine is designed to keep you sleeping comfortably, not keep you awake!
Generally speaking, CPAP panic will go away as soon as you get used to the mask and the air flow. It just takes some time and patience. Don't give up, though. Once you are able to sleep with CPAP, your sleep and your life, in general, will drastically improve. In the end, the struggle is worth it. We promise.
If you have concerns about your equipment, we are always available to answer questions. You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or get in touch directly at contact@thecpapshop.com or by calling 1-866-414-9700.
The CPAP Shop teamed up with Dr. Vidya Pai, an experienced sleep medicine specialist, to write this blog post. Our team of authors and medical experts frequently evaluates our blog posts so that readers can learn factual information and make knowledge-based decisions. Our blogs get constantly updated with the most accurate information to provide the most up-to-date facts and research.
Panic attacks can be common among people who are first starting CPAP therapy. According to a 2012 study at the University of California, Berkeley, when a person has apnea, their body releases certain hormones of anxiety and panic to try to restore breathing. In addition, people who suffer from panic attacks, in general, are more likely to have episodes while trying to fall asleep or while sleeping.
Having a CPAP mask covering your face is a new sensation that needs a small adjustment period. Since, in general, most users are not used to having something cover their face, it can understandably lead to feelings of suffocation. The reality is, though, that if you have sleep apnea and are not wearing a CPAP mask, your risk from suffocation is immeasurably greater.
What are CPAP Anxiety and CPAP Panic Attacks?
CPAP therapy can certainly induce anxiety and panic attacks, especially when first starting out. That’s because feelings of claustrophobia can also bring feelings of anxiety and panic. It’s important for sleep apnea patients to work towards feeling comfortable, and there are several steps that can help with that. Not only will routinely wearing it result in both positive physical and mental results, but there are other things that can be done to reduce feelings of anxiety and panic.
How to Get Used to a CPAP Machine
There are many steps patients can take to get more comfortable using a CPAP machine, including:
- Wear your CPAP mask during the day for short periods at a time to get more familiar with the feeling.
- Slowly ease into using a CPAP machine every night. Try starting to use it only a few times a week to get more comfortable with it.
- Use a CPAP Machine that includes the AutoRamp feature to help you slowly ease into therapy every night.
How Long Does it Take to Get Used to CPAP?
Although it is different for everyone, getting used to CPAP therapy shouldn’t take longer than a month or so. Some people feel perfectly fine after one night of use, but others may need a few weeks to fully feel comfortable. By using helpful practices like the ones mentioned above, CPAP patients can easily feel more comfortable.
Can't Breathe with CPAP?
Claustrophobia
Claustrophobia is a very common feeling for those who are just starting out with CPAP therapy. When wearing a CPAP mask, the feeling against your face could cause discomfort since patients are unfamiliar with that. This could cause stress and anxiety, resulting in the feeling of not being able to breathe.
Irregular CPAP Mask Fitting
CPAP masks come in many different styles and sizes, so it’s important to get one that best suits your needs. Having one that doesn’t properly fit can result in negative effects and not as effective therapy.
Leaking CPAP Mask
Due to improper fit, a CPAP mask can leak and not provide the correct amount of pressurized air. Make sure the straps are adjusted to properly fit
CPAP Masks Better For CPAP Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Opting to use a nasal or nasal pillow CPAP mask if you’re able is the best approach to avoid anxiety and panic attacks. That’s because they are smaller and more compact than traditional full face masks. They do not cover both the mouth and nose, so patients can feel freer during therapy.
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Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask With Headgear118 ReviewsAs low as $79.00 Regular Price $109.99
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Where Can I Get The Best CPAP Masks and Machines?
The CPAP Shop offers hundreds of products, including top-quality CPAP masks and machines from brands like ResMed, Fisher & Paykel, and more. Check them out on our website today, and give us a call at 866-414-9700 if you have any questions or need assistance.
