The following questions are often asked by people who have just received a prescription for a CPAP machine, or who are just now getting used to using one to treat the symptoms of sleep apnea.
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How long will it take to get used to sleeping while wearing the CPAP mask?
The only honest answer is “it depends.” Some people get comfortable with the CPAP machine and mask quite easily, while others are never able to get used to it. University studies have shown that the “compliance” of patients who have been prescribed the CPAP machine is about 50%, often because they can’t get used to sleeping with the mask.
It’s perfectly normal to have difficulty sleeping the first few nights with your CPAP machine. Some users suggest that you get used to the sound of the machine first, and then, perhaps on the second night, put on the mask. However, other users have found that they are so exhausted from the symptoms of their sleep apnea that they get a good night’s sleep the very first they use the machine.
If you feel anxious when you put on the mask for the first few times, you may want to wear the mask alone for a few minutes while you read a book or watch TV. If you still remain too anxious to use the mask, and you cannot fall asleep, you should discuss it with your doctor.
Unfortunately, a large percentage of patients are never able to get comfortable, so they’re forced to give up on using their CPAP machine after a few weeks or months. If this happens to you, you will want to talk to your doctor about using one of the self-help ideas that have been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of sleep apnea.
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Will the mask cause sores?
As with a new pair of shoes or the first time you wear glasses, you may find that your nose develops a blister or sore under the mask. You may want to put a Band-Aid or moleskin tape on your nose where the mask is likely to apply pressure. If pressure sores do develop, discuss it with your doctor. The sore may require treatment, and you may need to change the type of mask you’re using. Several types of masks are specifically designed to reduce the pressure and make your night more comfortable.
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Is it difficult to make the CPAP mask fit?
The equipment supplier who sells you the mask should be able to help you find one that fits well. They sell a lot of these machines and the equipment that goes with them, so they are often the best source of help. Some masks are designed to fit tightly without causing too much pressure. If the mask you purchase remains uncomfortable even after you’ve had a chance to get used to it, or if air continues to leak out around the mask, you should talk to your doctor or your medical equipment supplier to see if adjustments can be made or if another model would work better.
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Will the air from the machine cause my nose and throat to dry out?
This is one of the major drawbacks of the CPAP sleep apnea machines, and it’s the reason that some models come with humidifiers. Without the humidifier, you may experience nasal dryness, sneezing fits, or the symptoms of allergies, cold, or sinus infection. Machines are available with both heated and cool humidifiers. Your doctor or equipment supplier will be able to help you decide which one will work best for your specific needs.
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Will I need a full face mask?
Some people habitually sleep with their mouth open. For these patients, the regular nasal mask or pillows will not effectively alleviate their symptoms, because they don’t get the full effect of the pressurized air. If you know you sleep with your mouth open, you may need either chin straps to keep the mouth closed, or a full-face mask.
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Will the CPAP machine cause intestinal gas?
Many people experience a condition called “aerophagia” when they first begin using their machine. This is caused by swallowing some of the forced air, and it can feel like the type of gas you get when you eat the wrong kinds of food. Because it can be uncomfortable, you should discuss this with your doctor. Some patients are able to stop this from occurring by raising the head of their bed a few inches, using a bed wedge, or switching to one of the AutoCPAP machines.
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Will the CPAP mask stay on at night?
Some people remove their mask during the night while they’re sleeping, without knowing it. If you find this is happening, you should discuss it with your doctor. For most people, this stops happening after they get more used to wearing the mask, but some people try using Band-Aid or other type of tape to hold the mask on the tape to make it more difficult to remove while sleeping. Others have found that it helps to use a special CPAP pillow, or switch to one of the BiPAP machines, which removes the difficulty some people have in exhaling against the pressure of the CPAP machine.
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How long does it take for the machine to improve your symptoms?
Some people get a good night’s sleep the very first night they use their machine. Others take more time to get used to the machine, or find that their symptoms take longer to improve. Usually, patients will report feeling better sometime between one week and six months after starting their treatment. The folks who need to use the machine longer in order to feel better may have been going without adequate sleep for a very long time, and their body’s need more time to recover.
Unfortunately, the discomfort associated with the mask, hoses and noise causes up to 50% of people who try a CPAP machine to give up their treatment before they see a reduction in their symptoms. For people who have less severe symptoms or who cannot get comfortable with a CPAP machine, there are also a number of alternative treatments that are known to be effective. You can read about alternatives to CPAP machines here.
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Do I have to use the machine when I travel?
Yes. As you’ll see when reading your owner’s manual, it is recommended that you use the CPAP machine any time you sleep, even for naps. If you travel extensively, you may want to purchase a portable machine.
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What’s the best way to get information about my sleep apnea treatment?
Your doctor should always be your first contact if you have any question about the CPAP machine or any symptoms you may be having. Online sleep
apnea forums are good ways to get ideas, but only your doctor knows you and your specific condition. Rely on your doctor, not on information you find on the Internet.