Uploaded on Aug 24, 2022
People dealing with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where you fail to catch deep sleep at night, are recommended the use CPAP therapy.
What are the common problems you face with CPAP machines
What are the common problems
you face with CPAP machines?
People dealing with obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where you fail to
catch deep sleep at night, are recommended the use CPAP therapy. The
continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine delivers air to your
respiratory system and opens obstructions in the airway. It features a hose
and mask that maintains a steady pressure. Although using a CPAP machine is
beneficial for treating OSA, it has its complications. Some of these are listed
below. Have a look!
Reasons why using CPAP can be challenging
The wrong size or type of mask:
To efficiently use the CPAP machine, it is necessary to get the right-sized
mask. If you use the wrong one, the air may leak from the sides, rendering
the treatment useless. Also, a wrong mask that is unsuitable for your face
shape might cause ulcers and cuts. For these reasons, you must try and find a
perfect mask from the available range of options. Look for one that doesn’t
make you uncomfortable or claustrophobic and is a stable fit.
Trouble getting used to mask:
Those people who have never worn a mask are likely to experience
uneasiness when they are first introduced to the mask. To overcome this
problem, it is recommended to get used to wearing a mask slowly. Start with
wearing the mask for a short duration when you are awake, like watching TV.
Then, put it on when it is attached to the hose and functioning. Once you are
used to this, start using the mask when you are asleep.
Difficulty tolerating forced air:
The CPAP machine sends pressurized air into your lungs to keep the airway open.
However, the forced air can make it challenging for you to breathe. To resolve this
issue, you can try the ramp feature. The setting allows you to start with low air
pressure and slowly increases the force after falling asleep. If this doesn’t help, you
can consult your doctor to get a bi-level positive airway pressure machine (BiPAP)
that delivers more pressure while breathing in.
Feeling claustrophobic:
It is common to feel claustrophobic when you start using the machine. You should try
getting used to the mask to overcome this problem. You should put the mask on your
face when you are not using it and slowly get used to the mask when the machine is
turned on. For relaxing when using the mask, you can also try relaxation techniques.
It can help reduce anxiety related to CPAP machines.
Dealing with a dry mouth:
While using the CPAP machine, if you breathe through your mouth or rest
with your mouth open, the CPAP device can cause you to wake up with a dry
mouth. To deal with this problem, you are recommended to get a chin strap
that can help keep your mouth closed. Or, you can get a CPAP machine with a
humidifier.
So, these are a few problems you may face when using the CPAP machine. Try
the tips mentioned above to overcome these problems.
Thank You
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