Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I start feeling better after beginning to use my CPAP?
A: Most patients begin feeling better within the first week, though some people may take a little longer.
Q: What if I still snore on CPAP?
A: Snoring while on CPAP should not occur. If it does, contact your sleep doctor. Your pressure level may need to be adjusted.
Q: What if I lose or gain weight or my old symptoms reappear?
A: You may need to have your CPAP pressure level adjusted. Contact your sleep doctor.
Q: I have trouble falling asleep on CPAP or I feel uncomfortable when I first apply the air pressure at night.
A: If the ramp feature is available on your CPAP device, use this feature to slowly rise to your prescribed pressure setting.
Q: My nose and throat are dry, my nose is congested, or I have nosebleeds.
A:Try adding heated humidification. You may change the temperature setting on the humidifier. Try nasal saline spray before bedtime and upon awakening. This condition may improve over time. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
Q: My mouth is dry.
A: You may be sleeping with your mouth open. Try a chin strap. If a chin strap is not helpful, a full face mask may be considered or you should consult with your doctor about adding heated humidification.
If I just can't seem to adjust to using CPAP.
Q: My eyes are sore, dry, irritated, or swollen.
A: The mask may be leaking into your eyes. Use the forehead adjuster, if applicable, to reduce leaks. Try pulling the mask away from your face and repositioning it. The mask may be too tight. Readjust headgear straps.
Q: I feel gassy and bloated when I wake up in the morning.
A: Try sleeping with your head elevated. Try using a chin strap to prevent mouth breathing. This condition may improve over time.
Q: I just can't seem to adjust to using CPAP.
A: Most people will adjust to CPAP in one or two weeks. Occasionally, it may take a little longer if, for example, you are very sensitive to the feel of the mask on your face or the sound of the device. Call CPAP Clinic or your sleep doctor if you are having problems adjusting to the treatment.
Q: I need to be hospitalized for any reason, should I take my device with me and use it at night?
A: Yes. Also, if you are having surgery, it is important to tell the surgeon and the anesthetist that you have sleep apnea and are using CPAP at home. You should also inform the sleep doctor treating you for sleep apnea that you are going into the hospital.
Q: I travel frequently. Should I use my CPAP when I travel?
A: It is important that you use your CPAP every night. Purchasing travel accessories will make it more convenient for you to travel with your CPAP. Because of increased security measures at airports, it may be easier to travel if you have a copy of your prescription for your CPAP machine with you. It also is suggested that you call your airline ahead of time and ask if there is a special screening procedure required to carry on or check your CPAP device.
Q: Can I use my CPAP in other countries?
A: Most CPAP have a power supply that automatically adjusts to the various power supplies in different parts of the world. Most CPAP will accept 100-240V, 50-60Hz, without any special adjustment. Please note: You will need to use the correct plug adapter for the power outlet of the country you are visiting.
Q: How can I operate my CPAP with a battery?
A: Most CPAP machines can be operated with a battery. Consult your CPAP Clinic.
Q: My skin seems irritated, even bruised, or I have marks on my face.
A: Your mask may be too tight. If your mask has a forehead arm or adjustment feature try readjusting that first. Then, if necessary, readjust the headgear straps. You may have the wrong mask size. Consult CPAP Clinic for a mask fitting. Nasal pillows or a full face mask may provide a better fit. If you are experiencing skin irritation, try one of the following suggested solutions.
Inspect mask cushion and frame for wear, stiffness, cracks or breaks. Replace either the mask or parts that are worn out.
Wash mask daily according to user guide instructions, with a product that you would use to wash your face. Use mild soap and warm water.
Wash face before bed (suggestion - pH neutral) to remove excess facial oils.
Avoid using facial lotions and creams where your mask comes into contact with your face, as these products may interfere with mask seal and potentially degrade the quality of the cushion over time.
Place some porous hypoallergenic skin tape (consult your local pharmacy) over sensitive or irritated areas to create a barrier between the skin and the mask.
If skin irritation persists, consult your doctor.
Q: How can I tell when my mask is worn out?
A: Because masks are disposable, periodic replacement is needed when the mask shows signs of wear and tear. Inspect your mask for stiffness, cracks, or tears.
Q: My mask seems to be leaking.
A: Check all the connections.
If your mask has a forehead arm or adjustment feature, try readjusting that first to correct the leak.
If there is no improvement with the above steps, readjust the headgear straps. The mask should be as loose as possible while still creating a seal. A mask that is too tight against the face can cause leaks to occur by creating folds in the material.
Try another mask size or type if necessary.
Q: My mask seems dirty.
A: Wash your mask daily.
Wash your face nightly before putting on the mask.
Avoid using skin lotions before putting on your mask.
Q: It doesn't seem as though enough air is flowing to me.
A: Check that air from the machine is blowing.
Check the air inlet and filter for obstruction or dust build-up.
Check the hose for punctures.
If you are still having problems, check with CPAP Clinic or sleep doctor for assistance.
Q: My hose fills up with water at night.
A: Condensation builds up because the air in the room may be cooler than the air coming from the machine. To prevent this condensation from forming, try placing the tubing under the covers to warm it. You may also ask your homecare provider for a hose cover made of fleece.
Q: My machine does not seem to be working.
A: Check the power cord to be sure it is firmly inserted into the back of the machine and the electrical outlet. Contact CPAP Clinic if you have any problems you are unable to correct. Do not attempt to repair the blower unit yourself.