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Treatment Options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Continous Positive Airway Pressure for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Some patients also develop claustrophobia (fear of being in an enclosed space) from wearing the CPAP face mask. If this problem develops, it is important to speak with your health care provider to seek options to help you overcome your claustrophobia.
Nasal Complications
Some patients on CPAP therapy develop nasal complications such as nasal congestion, dryness of the nasal mucous membranes, and rhinorrhea ("runny nose"). Various strategies are available to help control nasal symptoms associated with CPAP therapy including:
Connecting a humidifier to the CPAP machine to add moisture to the air generated by the fan blower can help control nasal dryness and irritation.
Using a nasal saline spray before starting CPAP therapy can also help control nasal congestion and dryness.
Nasal sprays containing medications (e.g., steroids) are also available to help you better control nasal congestion and irritation.
Abrasions of the nose bridge is another relatively common nasal complication of CPAP therapy and is usually due to a very tight-fitting face mask. Adjusting the fit of the face mask usually helps to resolve this problem.
