Sleep Experts

ACAA & Civil Rights - BiPAP - Compliance - Glossary - Medicare - Supplies - Survey - Supply Refill

Are there problems with CPAP or BiPAP therapy?

Most patients are able to use CPAP without significant problems after a period of acclimating to the mask and pressure. Don't be surprised if it takes a period of time to get used to. Other problems can be soarness around the nose and mouth, irritation of the eyes, problems tolerating the pressure, claustrophobia, dry nose or mouth, difficulty sleeping, or nasal congestion. If any of these occur, contact your equipment provider and they will be able to offer possible solutions. If problems persist, talk with your doctor about other alternatives.

Intolerance of CPAP and Potential Solutions

What Else Can I Do?

Your doctor may suggest other lifestyle changes that could benefit the management of your obstructive sleep apnea.

Weight Loss: Being significantly overweight can contribute to your sleep apnea. Although not all patients with sleep apnea are overweight, it is common in sleep apnea patients. With significant weight loss, sleep apnea may be reduced or even eliminated. Your doctor may suggest a safe and effective weight loss program for you.

Avoid Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks prior to sleeping can significantly worsen sleep apnea problems. Alcohol should be avoided several hours prior to sleeping.

Medications: Some medications may worsen sleep and aggravate sleep apnea problems.

Sleeping Position: In some individuals, sleep apnea may worsen when sleeping on your back. Training yourself to sleep on your side with pillows or even tennis balls sown on the back of a tee shirt may help.

What if I cannot tolerate CPAP?

Most patients will be able to tolerate CPAP well, given time to acclimate to the therapy. For individuals that cannot use their CPAP, alternative therapies are available. Call us or talk with your doctor if you have difficulty using your CPAP device.

Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure: If you have difficulty exhaling against the CPAP pressure, Bilevel PAP may be easier to tolerate. By using a lower pressure during exhalation, the patient may find it more comfortable.

Oxygen Therapy: Although oxygen therapy will not correct your obstructive apneas, it can help to prevent the serious drops in your oxygen level that often accompany apnea events. Uncorrected, these low oxygen levels can lead to significant stress on your heart. Oxygen may be used along with your CPAP.

Surgery: There are surgeries (tracheostomy, UPPP, RF) that have been used to try to manage OSA. Success has been mixed.

Dental Devices: For some people, the use of a special dental device may help by slightly advancing the lower jaw.

CPAP and BiPAP are THERAPIES, not a cure! They work if you use it as directed by your doctor, for sleep. It is 100% effective. It stops snoring and improves sleep quality. Your bed partner will appreciate your "quiet" time together more.

Read about when things go wrong with CPAP here