CPAP therapy is the most commonly prescribed way to address obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Unfortunately, many people struggle to use their machine regularly, so they miss out on its benefits. Are you finding it difficult to use your CPAP every night? This blog post explores some issues that might be afflicting you and what you may be able to do to finally get the refreshing rest you deserve.
Common Problems with CPAP Therapy
Some people struggle to comply with CPAP therapy because:
- They find their mask to be uncomfortable.
- The machine’s noise bothers them.
- The forced air causes or worsens a dry mouth.
- Their mask causes skin irritation or pressure sores.
- The mask causes them to feel claustrophobic.
- The hoses and wires are bothersome.
Finding Success with CPAP Therapy
Here are a few suggestions that might make it easier to comply with your CPAP therapy:
- Talk to your care provider. It is possible that you are using the wrong size or type of mask, or that your machine is on the wrong setting. An expert may be able to help you correct such issues.
- Wear your mask while you are awake. Wearing your mask and even using your machine for short periods while you are awake might help you get used to the way it feels.
- Take good care of your machine. Adjusting the pads and straps on your machine, as well as keeping up with cleaning it and other basic maintenance, can keep issues like skin irritation and unwanted noise to a minimum.
- Avoid mouth breathing if possible. If you have nasal congestion or other issues that cause you to regularly breathe through your mouth, your CPAP could worsen your dry mouth. Allergy medications and/or sleeping with a chin strap to keep your mouth closed may help with such issues.
Consider Using a Different Treatment
Although traditional CPAP treatment is effective, it is not right for everyone. You might be a candidate for an alternative option, such as:
- Oral appliance therapy. An oral appliance from a sleep dentist gently repositions the lower jaw in order to facilitate improved breathing at night. No masks, hoses, or noisy machines are involved.
- Combined therapy. Combined therapy uses both a CPAP machine and a custom oral appliance. The oral appliance may allow you to use a lower setting on your machine or let you switch from a full mask to a nasal-only mask.
Sleep is vital for your health! It would be worth your time to make adjustments to your OSA treatment so you can start getting the rest you need.
Meet the Practice
Dr. David J. Drummond has decades of experience in dentistry. He has extensive knowledge of how the upper airway works, and he is glad to use his expertise in order to help people find freedom from OSA. If you are interested in learning more about oral appliance therapy or combined therapy, he and our team would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our Lawton, OK, office at 580-355-0344.