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There are many issues that CPAP users experience when they are starting out with CPAP therapy. These problems can cause CPAP users to discontinue their CPAP therapy or not stay compliant. This is a problem as you will not be able to breathe properly at night and will not get the benefits that the CPAP machine can provide. Below are the top 5 problems that CPAP users have and how you can overcome them to get the most out of your experience.  

Problem #1: My CPAP Mask is Uncomfortable 

When they first get their CPAP machine, many people find it annoying or uncomfortable to wear while they sleep as they are not used to sleeping with something attached to their face and nose. In order to make it more comfortable to wear at night, work with your doctor and CPAP supplier to get it fitted properly to your face so you can have the best experience possible. It may take a little while for you to get completely comfortable wearing your CPAP machine at night but once you get there you will be able to breathe like never before.  

Problem #2: I Feel Claustrophobic  

If you are feeling claustrophobic when you put on your CPAP mask to go to sleep, try putting it on and then turning on the air and breathing normally. This might help you not feel so claustrophobic. Also, continuing to wear your CPAP mask regularly will not make it seem so claustrophobic as you will get used to it. Wear it around the house for a while if you have to. If you feel too claustrophobic, you might want to talk to someone to see about switching to one that does not cover your entire face. Try one that just goes on your nose if it's appropriate for you.

Problem #3: I Keep Taking My Mask Off While Sleeping 

Many people struggle with this when they first start using their CPAP machine. Ultimately, practice makes perfect. You want to continue to practice and do your best to get the best seal on your mask to give you the maximum benefits. If you continuously take off your mask, you are not getting the benefits that you need. If you continue to struggle with this, you may want to try and tighten your mask or use mask liners to help get the best seal that you can as you are less likely to wake up if there are no leaks. However, the best solution to not taking off your mask is to wear it every night. Eventually, your body will get used to it being on and you will no longer try and take it off in the middle of the night.  

Problem #4: My Nose and Mouth are Drying Out 

If you are experiencing a dry mouth or nose from wearing your CPAP machine, there is an easy way to fix this. All you have to do is start using a CPAP humidifier with your CPAP therapy to add moisture back into your nose and mouth. This will make your throat less sore and make it more comfortable for you to wear at night as your mouth will not be so dry and irritated in the morning. You could also try XyliMelts to help with a dry mouth or Aquegel to help with nasal irritation and dryness. 

Problem #5: My Machine is Too Noisy 

If your CPAP machine is too loud, there are steps you can take to try to make it a little quieter. Start out by trying to make your mask quieter as most of the noise comes from the mask itself. If the mask is leaking, it can make your machine work harder which makes it louder. It's also important to replace the filters and keep them clean as that too can make the machine work harder, resulting in it being louder. When it comes to making sure your machine is quiet, it is important to pay attention to the decibel output of the machine as some machines are quieter than others. This primarily applies to travel machines. Choosing a quiet machine when you first start off is a good idea as it will allow you to get the most out of it.  

Using your CPAP machine regularly and properly is important as you will be able to get the most out of it. There are many different types of masks that we offer such as both nose and full face masks that you can choose from when you are first starting out. For more information about CPAP machines and how to use and clean them, you can visit our website. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.