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Stopping CPAP use
I have been on CPAP for 1.5 years. I started with an AHI of 38. The past few months my events range from 3.6 to 0.0 The pressures range from 5 to 10. I have been experiencing dry mouth gums and tongue. I would like to stop this because it's causing other issues. I tried a full face mask and have difficulty with the exhale. I feel that the pressure is too high and it forces my mouth open. My dr. was not open to another sleep study. I had the mask on for 5 hours, but only was asleep 2.5 hours. Anyone have any ideas as to what I can do to resove this issue? Thx for any insight that you can provide.
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Some folks use a chin strap to help keep the mouth closed. Others also mentioned mouth tape works for them. I use a full face mask because I am a mouth breather. I do have the issue similar to yours when I am sleeping on my back. I try to mostly sleep on my sides when possible. I also elevate the head of the bed some which helps. A sleep therapist can be helpful for suggestions where a regular doctor might not have the experience or knowledge. Are you able to talk with a sleep therapist?
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2 ReactionsI'd have to get a prescription from the dr. which he won't do without a visit. I saw him in Nov. and informed his office in April. They said they would try and 'squeeze me in'. I'd rather change doctors.
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1 ReactionSure, change doctors. I couldn't hurt!
I believe your problem is related to your oral cavity being open to circulating air. Most of us who use CPAP learn to keep the backs of our tongues up against the palate and upper pharyngeal tissue to seal the mouth. In turn, if this is true and your mouth is open to circulating air, you may also be opening your lips slightly, and this merely encourages more of the air to exit there since it represents one of the paths of least resistance.
You could try using Somnifix mouth tape for PAPers, although I use the 3M Nexcare 'strong hold' blue colored tape for my mouth. But, you should practice keeping your tongue up against the back of your throat until it becomes the default when in bed.
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3 ReactionsThx for the info. I think my lips open slightly. I tried somnifix, but felt as if I was being suffocated. I use a nasal pillow mask and am a side sleeper. I can't see why my AHI is so low if air escapes from my mouth. I'll try tape again to see if I can tolerate it better.🤐
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1 ReactionYou'll only feel suffocated if you are using the 'ramp' function where the machine slowly builds up to the prescribed pressure. It's what is known as a 'comfort' setting in the PAP field, but we advise people to stop using it. You'll get used to it.
The other thing is that your lower pressure limit might be a bit stingy for you. If it's less than 5, it's too low. You may even fee a LOT BETTER with 5.5 or even 6.
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1 ReactionI am as frustrated as you are! Your story is mine. I want to stop too. My hubby thinks I might die. I a down to 5 events per hour. I honestly think they just push it sometimes 😞
Sorry no answers. Hang in there Jackie
5 events with or without the cpap?
Never even thought of that. It was with my cpap
Resolving that one is very tough. I had terrible dry mouth, but my sleep doctors, while providing no help, still insisted on a nasal mask. My reward is that all my teeth are so decayed I was referred to an oral surgeon to get them all out. I now use 3 different measures to keep my mouth shut.
Please don't let that happen to you.
That is great! I do the same but when I have had to go without my cpap it is much worse. I would try a night without it to see how it goes before trying to give it up.