Common Side Effects of CPAP Therapy and How to Manage Them
CPAP therapy is a common treatment for sleep apnea, but it can cause some side effects. Here are some of the most common side effects of CPAP therapy and how to manage them:
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Dry Mouth and Nose: CPAP therapy can cause dryness in the mouth and nose. Using a humidifier with your CPAP machine can help to add moisture to the air you breathe and prevent dryness.
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Nasal Congestion: CPAP therapy can cause nasal congestion or a runny nose. Using a saline nasal spray or a nasal decongestant can help to alleviate symptoms.
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Skin Irritation: The mask or headgear of the CPAP machine can cause skin irritation or pressure sores. Try using a different type of mask or headgear, or using a skin moisturizer to prevent irritation.
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Mask Leaks: The mask can leak, causing air to escape and making it difficult to breathe. Make sure the mask fits properly and is adjusted correctly, or try a different type of mask.
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Headaches: CPAP therapy can cause headaches, especially if the air pressure is too high. Your healthcare provider can adjust the pressure to alleviate headache symptoms.
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Disturbed Sleep: Some people find it difficult to sleep with the CPAP machine and mask, which can cause disturbed sleep. Gradually increasing the amount of time you use the CPAP machine each night can help you get used to it.
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Noise: The noise of the CPAP machine can be disruptive to sleep. Some machines have a quiet mode, or you can try using a white noise machine to mask the sound.
In conclusion, CPAP therapy can cause some side effects, but with the right strategies, they can be managed. If you are having trouble managing the side effects of CPAP therapy, speak with your healthcare provider for further advice and support.