Common CPAP Side Effects and How to Prevent Them

November 15, 2025

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most effective and widely used treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — a condition that causes breathing interruptions during sleep. By keeping your airway open with steady airflow, CPAP ensures you get deep, restful, and uninterrupted sleep.

However, adjusting to CPAP therapy can take time. Some users experience side effects like dryness, air leaks, or even discomfort. While these issues are common, they’re not permanent — and most can be fixed easily with proper setup, cleaning, and accessories.

Let’s explore the most common CPAP side effects and simple ways to prevent or manage them, so you can enjoy your therapy without frustration.

🌬️ 1. Dry Mouth and Throat

The Problem:

If you wake up with a dry mouth or sore throat, your CPAP mask might be leaking air or you may be breathing through your mouth at night.

Why It Happens:

Air escapes through the mouth, drying out your throat.
Lack of humidification in your CPAP setup.
Poorly fitted nasal mask for mouth breathers.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Use a heated humidifier to add moisture to the airflow.
✅ Try a full-face mask (like ResMed AirFit F20) if you breathe through your mouth.
✅ Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
✅ Avoid caffeine or alcohol before bed—they increase dehydration.

💡 Tip: Pairing your CPAP with a heated hose can maintain consistent humidity and prevent condensation.

👃 2. Nasal Congestion or Dry Nose

The Problem:

Many users complain of nasal dryness, congestion, or even mild nosebleeds when starting CPAP therapy.

Why It Happens:

Airflow from your machine may be too dry.
Low humidity in your room.
Mask leaks around the nose area.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Adjust the humidification settings on your machine for more moisture.
✅ Use saline nasal sprays before bedtime.
✅ Make sure your mask cushion fits properly and seals well.
✅ Clean the mask daily to prevent buildup of dust or oils that cause irritation.

💡 Recommended: ResMed AirFit F40 Nasal Mask — lightweight and provides gentle airflow, ideal for sensitive noses.

😴 3. Air Leaks Around the Mask

The Problem:

Air leaks can make a hissing sound, reduce therapy pressure, and dry out your eyes or face.

Why It Happens:

Mask is too loose or too tight.
Cushion has worn out or lost its shape.
Mask is not designed for your sleeping position.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Refit your mask while lying down to simulate your sleeping position.
✅ Tighten straps evenly—avoid overtightening.
✅ Replace mask cushions every 3–6 months.
✅ Clean regularly to maintain the silicone seal.

💡 Tip: Try sleeping on your back to minimize mask displacement.

😷 4. Skin Irritation or Pressure Marks

The Problem:

Some users develop redness or sore spots where the mask touches their face.

Why It Happens:

Straps are too tight.
Mask is dirty or oily.
Skin is sensitive to silicone or friction.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Clean your mask and cushion daily with mild soap and water.
✅ Wash your face before wearing the mask to remove oils.
✅ Use mask liners or soft fabric pads to reduce friction.
✅ Try alternating between mask types—nasal, full-face, or nasal pillows.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid applying creams or lotions right before bed; they can damage the mask seal.

😮💨 5. Aerophagia (Swallowing Air)

The Problem:

Some CPAP users feel bloated, burp frequently, or experience stomach discomfort after sleeping.

Why It Happens:

Air from the CPAP machine may enter the stomach instead of the lungs.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Avoid lying completely flat—try sleeping with your upper body slightly elevated.
✅ Ask your doctor if a lower pressure setting can help.
✅ Check for air leaks; fluctuating pressure can cause swallowing of air.
✅ Avoid eating heavy meals or drinking carbonated drinks before bedtime.

😧 6. Feeling Claustrophobic or Anxious

The Problem:

Wearing a mask can make new users feel trapped or anxious.

Why It Happens:

The sensation of pressure and mask straps can feel restrictive.
Fear of suffocation when first starting therapy.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Practice wearing the mask during the day to get comfortable.
✅ Use Ramp Mode — your machine starts with low pressure and gradually increases it.
✅ Try a minimal-contact mask like ResMed AirFit F40 — smaller, lighter, and easier to adapt to.
✅ Relax and focus on slow, deep breathing before sleeping.

💡 Tip: Listen to calm music or guided breathing exercises as you adjust.

💨 7. Difficulty Exhaling Against Pressure

The Problem:

Some users find it difficult to exhale because of the constant airflow.

Why It Happens:

Pressure settings may be too high for beginners.
Machine doesn’t have exhalation relief enabled.

How to Prevent It:

✅ Activate Exhalation Pressure Relief (EPR) or C-Flex features on your CPAP machine.
✅ Start at a lower pressure and gradually increase as you adapt.
✅ Practice slow, steady breathing through your nose.

🧼 8. Allergic Reactions or Odors from Equipment

The Problem:

A few users report mild allergies, odors, or headaches from their mask or tubing.

Why It Happens:

Mask is not cleaned properly.
Dust or mold buildup inside tubing or humidifier chamber.
New equipment smell (common with fresh silicone).

How to Prevent It:

✅ Clean all equipment regularly with fragrance-free soap and warm water.
✅ Let parts air dry completely before use.
✅ Replace filters and tubing every 3–6 months.
✅ Use CPAP-specific wipes or cleaning systems.

✅ Conclusion: Comfort Is Key to CPAP Success

Every CPAP side effect has a solution — most problems arise during the initial adjustment phase and disappear with regular use, maintenance, and proper fitting.

Remember:

Keep your equipment clean and well-fitted.
Use a humidifier for dryness.
Replace worn parts regularly.
Be patient — consistency leads to comfort.

With the right mask, settings, and accessories, CPAP therapy can become a life-changing habit that helps you sleep better, breathe easier, and wake up refreshed every day.

🛒 Recommended Products from CPAPsavers.com

💙 ResMed AirFit F20 Full Face Mask — Ideal for mouth breathers, offers superior seal and comfort.
💙 ResMed AirFit F40 Nasal Cushion Mask — Ultra-light design with secure fit and quiet performance.
💙 Heated CPAP Humidifier & Hose Kit — Reduces dryness and keeps airflow warm and moist.
💙 CPAP Mask Wipes & Filters — For daily cleaning and freshness.

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