What Is Thunderstorm Asthma and How Can I Alleviate the Symptoms?
Do you experience asthma symptoms during thunderstorms? Learn about thunderstorm asthma, what causes it, common symptoms, and what you can do to keep your breathing under control.
CPAP Therapy: What First-Time Users Should Know
If you were recently diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor may recommend continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. As the gold standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), CPAP can improve sleep, energy, and overall health. However, many first-time users are unsure what to expect.
Wearing a mask while you sleep can feel uncomfortable at first, but an adjustment period is normal. With the equipment and support, you can adapt quickly and sleep better.
At Respacare in Bridgewater, New Jersey, Dr. Nehal Mehta and Dr. Prashant Patel provide personalized sleep apnea care, helping patients find the most effective and comfortable solution at our CPAP Clinic.
What is CPAP therapy?
CPAP therapy uses gentle air pressure to keep your airway open while you sleep. With obstructive sleep apnea, your throat muscles may relax too much, causing the airway to collapse and temporarily block breathing. CPAP prevents these interruptions by maintaining steady airflow.
A CPAP system typically includes:
- A CPAP machine
- A mask
- Tubing
- A humidifier
The machine delivers pressurized air through the tubing to the mask, while the humidifier adds moisture to help prevent dryness and irritation.
What to expect during the first few weeks
You may notice improvements in sleep and daytime energy within days of starting CPAP therapy. However, it can take time to get used to the machine and mask.
During the first nights, your awareness of the mask or airflow may make it harder to fall asleep. Some users also experience feelings of discomfort or mild claustrophobia. These challenges are common and usually improve with consistent use.
Sticking with therapy during the adjustment period is important. Many long-term CPAP users report that the benefits far outweigh the initial inconvenience.
Mask options
Mask comfort is a major factor in CPAP success. Fortunately, several mask styles are available, including:
Nasal mask
The nasal mask covers your nose and is a good choice if you move around a lot in your sleep.
Nasal pillow mask
The nasal pillow mask only covers the nostrils, instead of the entire nose. You may prefer this mask if the larger masks feel too restrictive or cause feelings of claustrophobia.
Full mask
A full mask covers the nose and mouth and works best if you breathe through your mouth while you sleep.
Hybrid mask
A hybrid mask, also called the oral mask, delivers air pressure through the mouth, leaving the nose uncovered. Like the full mask, the hybrid mask works best for people who breathe through their mouth.
Our CPAP clinic allows you to try different mask styles to find the best fit.
Common CPAP side effects and solutions
Minor side effects are common when starting CPAP therapy but are fixable with a few simple adjustments.
Air leaks
Masks that are too small, too large, or poorly fitted can cause air leaks, leading to skin irritation and dryness. Adjusting the size or switching masks may prevent air leaks.
Pressure discomfort
Many CPAP machines have a ramp feature that starts with a lower pressure and gradually increases as you fall asleep, which minimizes air pressure discomfort. You may also benefit from a different machine, such as the BiPAP machine, which delivers different pressures when you inhale and exhale.
Dry nose or mouth
Using the system’s humidifier and adjusting the setting can help relieve dryness. Correcting mask leaks may also improve symptoms.
When it’s time for an adjustment
If you continue to experience discomfort, side effects, or difficulty using your CPAP machine consistently, it’s time to schedule an appointment. We can evaluate your current plan and make adjustments to your mask, machine, or equipment.
If you can’t tolerate CPAP therapy, we offer alternative treatments such as an oral appliance or Inspire Therapy® as options to explore.
Starting CPAP therapy can feel like a big adjustment, but you can overcome any of these challenges with the right system and support. Addressing issues early can improve your comfort, sleep quality, and long-term health.
If you’re ready to start CPAP or need help making it work for you, call our office today or schedule an appointment online.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Sleep Disorder Testing: What to Expect
Worried about an upcoming sleep disorder test? Learn about the types of tests and what to expect to ease anxiety and feel confident about getting answers to your health concerns.
Beyond Irritability and Daytime Sleepiness: 4 Long-Term Health Risks of Chronic Insomnia
Chronic insomnia does more than leave you tired during the day; it can increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Learn the long-term health effects of insomnia and what you can do to protect your health.
Respiratory Testing, Treatment, and Monitoring for Long-Haul COVID: What to Expect
Are you coughing or feeling short of breath weeks after recovering from COVID-19? You might have long-haul COVID. Learn about testing, treatment, and monitoring for this common condition affecting millions.
Adult-Onset Allergies: Why They Happen, and How We Can Help You Manage Them
Are you suddenly dealing with new allergies? Learn about common triggers, why adult-onset allergies happen, and how expert care can help you get relief.
Do You Have an Updated Asthma Action Plan? Here's Why It Matters
During Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, learn why an updated asthma action plan is key to helping you stay in control of your breathing and health.