Living with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Rhinitis or nasal congestion. This is the main problem associated with the use of a CPAP machine. Adding a humidifier to the CPAP machine leads to improvement in most cases. Specific nasal treatment and/or an ENT assessment may be required if the problem persists.

Skin lesions. These are caused by the mask adjustment straps. Liquid Vaseline® or special plasters often help patients get used to and tolerate the mask. It is a good idea to wash and hydrate the face with a moisturiser every morning. A consultation with the CPAP machine supplier may be advisable to review the adequacy of the model and mask size and placement. If the lesion persists, the patient should contact the specialist CPAP care nurse.

Accumulation of air in the stomach (aerophagia). The head end of the bed should be raised slightly and sometimes specific symptomatic drug treatment is given. This usually disappears spontaneously with continued CPAP treatment. If not, or there is difficulty tolerating the treatment, you should consult your reference pulmonologist.

Eye discomfort, conjunctivitis. This is normally due to leaks from areas where the mask is in contact with the skin, so the mask should be readjusted for a better fit.

Noise. Current equipment is very quiet. Any noise is often a sign of leaks around the mask due to poor mask placement or movement during the night.

Cold sensation. The tubing can be inserted under the bedclothes or a humidifier can be added to the CPAP device.

Pharyngeal dryness. This occurs because snoring and apnoea cause water loss through the soft palate as the patient breathes. It usually stops of its own accord. In some cases, the dryness disappears with CPAP use; while, in others, it is the actual CPAP airflow that causes the dry throat. If it lasts for more than 4 weeks, contact the CPAP supplier so they can add a humidifier to the machine.

Nosebleed. Although they are not very common, nose bleeds can hamper the application of CPAP. To prevent them, humidify the nasal mucous membrane by drinking fluids; use room humidifiers or connect one directly to the CPAP device; or turn the heating down to prevent a dry environment. Systematic application of nasal creams may be very helpful in cases of nasal dryness.

Headaches. The cause remains unknown, but they usually disappear with normal painkillers and stop after a few days of use.

Insomnia, claustrophobia. These are very uncommon side effects that improve after a period of adaptation. If there is no improvement after a few weeks, you should talk to the pulmonologist.