How can you continue CPAP treatment if you have nasal congestion
                     How can you continue CPAP treatment 
if you have nasal congestion?
Nasal congestion may result from allergies or colds. In some cases, it happens 
because CPAP users are mouth breathers, and using the device requires them 
to breathe through their nose, causing irritation and nose congestion. But, 
whatever the reason, many CPAP users stop the therapy during this time. But, 
this is not ideal. So, here are some tips on how to continue the treatment 
despite congestion. Have a look!
Tips for continuing CPAP therapy when you have nasal congestion
Humidification:
Most sleep experts recommend patients use the CPAP device if they have been diagnosed 
with OSA through a home sleep study. These machines come equipped with humidifiers that 
help add moisture to the air you breathe through the mask. Using them is especially 
recommended for patients over 65 years of age who are living in dry climates. They add 
moisture to the air you breathe, making it comfortable to use the CPAP device.
Heated tubing:
Using heated tubing helps maintain a warm air temperature. As a result, when the airstream 
from the humidifier flows to the mask and enters your airway, it is not dry and irritating. 
However, if you do not use heated tubing, the air will be cold by the time it reaches your 
system. It may cause condensation in the tubing and may result in a rainout.
CPAP filtration:
It would help if you ensured that CPAP filters are cleaned and maintained regularly. It 
reduces or eliminates the irritants from the air you are breathing in. For this purpose, you 
should wash the non-disposable filter at least once a week with water. After that, you 
should allow it to dry completely before you put it back in the machine. You can also get 
hypoallergenic filters with a tighter weave for better results. Even fewer particles will be 
able to get through it.
Use a full face mask:
CPAP users can opt to switch from a pillow or nasal mask to a full face mask when they 
have nasal congestion. The latter covers your full face and nose. In addition, some masks 
have separate nasal and oral components. 
Try allergy medicines:
If you suffer from nasal congestion because of an allergy, you may want to try selective or non-
selective antihistamines. They might cause drowsiness but are effective for congestion. If they 
don’t work, you can also try nasal steroids.
Avoid eye irritation:
To avoid any sort of problems with the CPAP machine, including congestion, you should ensure to 
get a mask with a proper fit. If your mask doesn’t fit your face, the air blowing into your eyes may 
cause irritation and dryness. Thus, you should minimize the air leakage to not feel irritation in the 
eyes.
So, these are a few solutions one must try for continuing CPAP treatment even when you have 
nasal congestion.
    
                                  Thank You