Sleeping With a Spouse Who Uses a CPAP Machine

Sleeping with someone who needs a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy machine may be difficult, but it is not impossible. The CPAP helps a person with sleep apnea breathe easier when sleeping. The machine forces air pressure into the throat to prevent the airway from collapsing. Spouses who share the bed may find the CPAP too noisy to sleep with, and thus suffer from lack of sleep themselves.

Set a Bed Time

• Set an earlier bed time for the spouse who does not require the CPAP than the spouse who uses the machine. Allowing 30 to 45 minutes for her to fall asleep will help her to stay asleep and not focus on the machine's sound. When starting the machine, be as quiet as possible and try to avoid turning on overhead lights.

Sound Machine

• Purchase a sound machine that plays relaxing music or soothing sounds. Incorporating a sound machine into your sleep habits will help your mind get accustom to sounds at night. Start the sound machine before going to bed and put it on your side of the bed. Eventually, the only thing you hear will be the sounds of the sound machine and not the CPAP.

Change Machines

• There are several different types of CPAP machines available, and some may be quieter than the one currently in use. Talk to the doctor to find out if a different, quieter machine is available. Different machines are for different levels of sleep apnea and may not be available for the level you need.

Change Rooms

• Everyone needs to sleep, and if the machine is keeping one spouse awake at night it may be time to sleep in separate rooms. Spouses need to be refreshed and alert during the day which means getting enough sleep at night.