A Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) machine provides artificial ventilation to sleep apnea patients to prevent their airway from collapsing and to keep it open during sleep. This function is accomplished with the help of pumping in pre-set pressurized air directly into the lungs on a continuous basis so that the airway remains open and the patient can experience interruption-free breathing during sleep.
CPAP Side Effects vary from person to person. Among the most common CPAP side effects is discomfort caused by the mask itself. Everyone has reported “red marks” around the face or soreness on the bridge from their nose. This is typically due to the headgear straps being too tight. To make up for this particular side effect, a variety of masks are now being developed. Additionally there are mask pads available or masks that only attach on the nostrils.
Another CPAP side effect is nasal congestion and dryness from the nasal passages. The reason nasal passages dry out are usually from the lack of humidification. The continual air generated by the device is definitely an irritant that can cause the nasal passages turn into dry and perhaps bleed.
Sores inside the nose are additional problems. These are typically caused by poorly fitting nasal prongs or nasal pillows. Whether you are utilizing the nasal prongs or nasal pillows, the reason for the discomfort may be as basic as your entire nose being too sensitive and needing the perfect time to get accustomed to the item.
Facial break outs are another CPAP side effect. These are generally a result of among the three things: facial oils are building up beneath the mask; the mask is simply too tight; or perhaps the material in the mask is bringing about an allergic reaction.
Most masks come from silicone, which is an inert substance, however the chemicals where the mask is manufactured are what some people are allergic to. Soaking or washing the mask can lessen or remove the problem, nevertheless it can also reduce the lifetime of the mask itself.
Some individuals report getting up feeling bloated. That’s an indication that air is being swallowed. The medical term for this is Aerophagia, which literally means to have air. This can cause gas in the stomach and belching. There is certainly no real treatment for this side effect.
Not all the CPAP side effects are negative. A complete positive CPAP side effect that was reported is definitely an initial burst of energy, better known as a “CPAP high”. Due to finally getting into a deep and restful sleep people see this affects with the rest of their day in positive ways. They have an inclination to be in a good mood and have a greater ability to focus and concentrate. They also see improvement in their work performance and in their day after day relationships with friends, family, and special loved ones.
Irrespective of the CPAP side effects that one may face, there are many solutions available to relieve any discomfort and even questions. Some great benefits of using CPAP as the way of treating sleep apnea far outweigh some of the side effects that may likely occur.
To read about alternative sleep apnea treatments, check out this SleepApnea101.net website.
Posted under Sleep Deprivation Symptoms
This post was written by editor on October 26, 2011


