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CPAP Issues

Sleep apnea and related sleep disorders are dangerous to your health and can even be deadly without proper diagnosis and treatment. A common initiative of physicians is to prescribe CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) equipment to these sleep-deprived patients. However, there can be difficult problems with the CPAP that can cause patients to feel as though they will never be able to sleep well again.

  1. Air Bleeds

    • A common occurrence with CPAP equipment is air bleeds. This occurs when air that is supposed to enter from the machine to the patient's airways is lost in part through openings in the equipment. One way this happens is if the connections between the tube and machine and mask are not correctly connected. This is remedied by secure reattachment. Another more difficult problem occurs when the tubing or mask develops a hole, in which case the compromised part must be replaced.

    Complicated Directions

    • One issue that can cause difficulties for CPAP users is complicated directions regarding the use of the machine. Often users are unable to fully comprehend the written guidelines that accompany their apparatus. People with sight issues or of advanced age can have difficulty reading the material. A possible solution to the problem is for health care professionals to provide demonstrations and explanations for the machine's use. CPAP users should also have the telephone number of a professional who can answer questions they might have after they begin using the CPAP at home.

    Ill-Fitting Masks

    • Discomfort wearing the CPAP masks are often a reason why patients discontinue their use or fail to rest well if they do use the equipment. The American Sleep Apnea Association cites a common problem: Users adjust the straps of the masks too tightly, causing discomfort. This issue can usually be resolved by readjusting the straps so that they hold the mask in place but are not too constricting. Sometimes the construction of the mask itself makes it difficult for patients to adjust to, and another type of mask should be tried. For example, some wearers find that masks covering the nose and mouth are uncomfortable, while one featuring just a nose piece is preferred. Discuss the differing types of available masks with your physician.

    Dry Nose or Mouth

    • The continuous air pressure provided by your machine may cause you to suffer a dry nose or mouth. This problem can usually be resolved by using a machine that has a heater, which produces moist, heated air that helps keep you from developing a dry nose or mouth. The amount of heat can be adjusted by using the machine's controls.

    Cleaning and Maintenance Issues

    • You can subject yourself to possible bacterial or fungal infection if you do not routinely clean and maintain your CPAP equipment. Remember to fully cleanse with warm water and detergent all parts of your machine on a weekly basis. Inspect your machine and its parts during cleaning for signs of wear. You need to have the CPAP or one of its parts replaced if you spot a defect in the equipment. Always use distilled water in your machine. If you become ill and suspect that using the CPAP is the reason, report this possible connection to your physician.

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