trouble using C-Pap machine - Sleep Disorders Message Board

NickName · 10-08-2005, 03:31 PM

I got a C-Pap machine in July for my sleep apnea, and the first 2 months things worked really well, but the past month has been terrible. My nose is so stuffy at night I can't breath through the mask. I don't want to get too used to using Affrin every day, but that seems to be the only thing that works.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Energy Restored · 10-08-2005, 09:03 PM

Go to cpaptalk.com. It's an amazing forum for people who suffer from OSA. I do and it has really saved my life. Wonderful people and great advice that you won't get anywhere else. Good luck.
By the way, I've been using my machine since June.

NickName · 10-09-2005, 05:56 AM

Thank you SO much!!!

analog2000 · 10-11-2005, 04:52 PM

Is your nose stuffy all the time, or just at night? Maybe you have seasonal allergies, and are now having problems because of the change of the season?

Do you use a humidifier? My husband was having a problem with a runny nose until he started using his humidifier. How do you clean your machine, masks, and tubing? Have you replaced the filter lately?

You could also try using a full-face mask for nights when you have to breathe through your mouth. Mine has been a godsend during flu season.

You should definitely talk with your doc. Using Afrin everyday is probably not the greatest idea. After a few weeks of continuous use, it can cause "rebound" congestion, which will just make things worse.

Good luck.

NickName · 10-12-2005, 07:37 PM

My machine is so new, I don't expect the filter to be a problem. I clean the entire system and mask, all parts separately, each time I use the machine - although there is always the possibility I'm doing something wrong.

My stuffiness is at night. I have been on www.cpaptalk.com and there are a lot of people on there with helpful ideas. I'm just trying one option at a time until I find something that works.

I refuse to use affrin continuously... I know that's an addictive medicine.

Thanks for the ideas