The 8 CPAP Side Effects You Probably Didn’t Know About
Sleep apnea disrupts your breathing during sleep, causing a range of symptoms like loud snoring, disturbed sleep, daytime sleepiness, and mood changes. CPAP machines have typically been the recommended treatment to alleviate these symptoms. However, there are a slew of unpleasant side effects from using a CPAP machine to treat your sleep apnea.
- Skin Marks or Rashes:
Improperly fitted masks can leave marks on the skin, potentially leading to ulcers and sores. Those with sensitive skin may also experience skin rashes, particularly if the mask contains latex.
- Air Swallowing:
CPAP devices may cause air swallowing, resulting in burping, bloating, or flatulence. When the CPAP pressure is set too high, excess air may enter the stomach instead of the upper airway. Although not dangerous, this can cause discomfort for some individuals.
- Dryness of Mouth:
Many CPAP users report dryness of the mouth, often due to air leakage from the mask. This dryness can lead to dental and gum issues, especially if the mask doesn’t fit properly or if you frequently change sleeping positions.
- CPAP Headaches:
Some individuals may experience morning headaches after using a CPAP machine. Possible causes include high CPAP pressure or sinus congestion, as well as overly tightened headgear. If this is a persistent issue, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.
- Claustrophobia:
Adjusting to sleeping with a mask can be challenging, and it may induce a feeling of claustrophobia for some people. This can be particularly difficult for those who require a full-face mask.
- Difficulty Exhaling:
Some users may find it difficult to exhale against the continuous flow of air, leading to a sensation of breathlessness.
- Dry or Itchy Eyes:
Dry or itchy eyes are another common side effect of CPAP machines. This can be caused by an air leak in the mask or an improper fit. This forces the user to continuously adjust their CPAP device to combat these symptoms.
- Sinus Irritation:
Breathing dry air regularly can cause inflammation in the sinuses. If left untreated, this sinus issue may develop into a more serious infection.
What’s the Alternative to CPAP?
AIRLIFT is an innovative sleep apnea treatment that brings immediate and long-lasting relief by effectively opening and stabilizing your airway. The best part? This treatment starts working right away and can be performed as an outpatient surgery that takes less than an hour, with nothing required of you to keep the therapy working. Say goodbye to sleep apnea and hello to a good night’s sleep with AIRLIFT.
