How to Get Used to CPAP and What to Do If You Just Can’t

Continuous positive airway pressure helps people with sleep apnea breathe. It’s a fantastic invention and has helped many, but it’s also hard to get used to. Many people, even those who’ve been using it successfully, have a hard time adjusting.

All is not lost, however, if you find yourself having a lot of trouble with CPAP. Sometimes you need to have the mask and pressure re-evaluated, sometimes you need a different type of CPAP, and sometimes your own bedding could be the culprit. If you’re having trouble adjusting, there are things you can do.

Have More Than One Mask Fitting Session

When you get a CPAP mask, your CPAP technician should check the fit for leaks and see if it’s uncomfortable for you. As you wear the mask, you can find little things about it that bother you. You can always schedule another mask fitting within 30 days to see what’s going on. It could be that you need a different style or size.

Have the Pressure Adjusted

CPAP machines and masks allow air to be forced into your nose and mouth to keep airways open. Too much pressure can be very uncomfortable, even just a little too much. The same goes for too little pressure.

If the pressure is bothering you, speak with your doctor about having an evaluation to monitor and adjust the pressure again. This should have been done when you got the CPAP, but you can always do it again if the first one didn’t get the pressure just right.

Get the Ramp-up Option

Did you know that some CPAP models have an option to gradually increase the pressure until you reach the one that your doctor has recommended? If you’re really having trouble with the pressure even when you’ve had an evaluation and adjustment, this feature might work well for you. It allows you to gradually increase the pressure and get used to smaller amounts first.

Try Different Mask Types

Most people envision full-face CPAP masks when they think of CPAP, and many do try those at first. Those can be hard to get used to because, when you’re drowsy, they can make you feel like you need to get this thing off your face. And that’s a real problem; many users do find themselves pushing the mask off in their sleep.

You’ll have to try different types of masks. Full-face, or a Nasal mask. You have a lot of options and may have to try different types to find the one that works. Remember to have a mask fitting done whenever you switch styles.

Adjust Your Surroundings

When you use a CPAP machine, there are so many things going on at once that finding the core problem behind your inability to get used to the device can be difficult. You’re not alone in this at all, by the way. And the good news is that the cause of the problem can also be very small.

Something to consider is the environment in which you’re using the CPAP machine. If the noise from the machine is bothering you, and you don’t want to or can’t wear earplugs, placing the machine in a closet often blocks much of the noise. A white noise or environmental noise generator may also help to cover the sound of the motor.

Your own bedding could be the cause as well. If you tend to sleep on your side, your pillow can interfere with your mask. Special pillows with cut-away sides called PAP pillows, may be the answer.

As you use CPAP more and more and find ways to overcome the issues preventing you from getting used to CPAP, you’ll start to feel better and notice an increase in the times sleep actually feels restful. Companies like Corner Home Medical sell masks, supplies like PAP pillows, and more. Take a look at the options and discuss them with your doctor.