While the potential side effects of Sleep Apnea Products use are rarely dangerous, they can cause some people to discontinue their sleep therapy. That is why comfort features and CPAP accessories are more than just nice-to-haves; they can mean the difference between quitting and getting a good night’s sleep.
1. Dry Eyes
If you wake up with dry eyes, it’s almost certainly due to a mask leak. While you sleep, the escaping air blows across your face, drying your eyes. Because the amount of leakage varies with your sleeping position throughout the night, you may not even notice.
How to Prevent It:
– First and foremost, ensure that your mask fits properly. Because your face shape changes when you lie down, re-adjust the fit while lying in your preferred sleeping position.
– Check that your headgear isn’t too big or too small. Loose straps allow air to escape, but an overly tight fit can also cause leaks by preventing your cushion from properly sealing.
2. Gas, bloating, and burping
Higher pressure settings increase the likelihood of swallowing air, a condition known as ‘aerophagia.’ When the flow of continuous positive airway pressure becomes too difficult to breathe against, it may redirect into your esophagus. Bloating, burping, stomach pain and gas are all symptoms of aerophagia.
How to Prevent It:
– Adjusting your pressure settings should be discussed with your doctor or a sleep specialist. You should never try to change your pressure settings without first consulting a doctor or a sleep specialist.
3. Exhalation Difficulties
While the majority of CPAP users adjust well to their therapy, some may find it difficult to exhale against the continuous flow of air. Even if enough air is allowed, this can cause a sensation of shortness of breath.
How to Prevent It:
– First, experiment with the exhalation relief settings on your CPAP machine. This is commonly referred to as EPR, A-Flex, C-Flex, or SmartFlex. Whatever you call it, it reduces the pressure of your airflow during exhalation.
– Adjusting your pressure settings should be discussed with your doctor or a sleep specialist. You should never try to change your pressure settings without first consulting a doctor or a sleep specialist.
