For those suffering from sleep apnea, getting a CPAP or BiPAP machine can be life-changing. However, because these machines subject your face to moving air, there are some mild side effects for which you could prepare.
4 Possible Side Effects of Using a CPAP or BiPAP Machine
The most common side effects of using a CPAP machine or a BiPAP machine are dry mouth, nasal congestion, and irritation of the skin and eyes.
Dry Mouth
Because BiPAP delivers air through your mouth, it can cause your mouth to become dry. This is especially true if you use a mask that covers your nose and mouth. To help reduce dry mouth, you can use a chin strap to keep your mouth closed, use a humidifier, or drink plenty of fluids during the day.
Nasal Congestion
BiPAP can also cause nasal congestion because it delivers air through your nose. This is more likely to happen if you use a mask that covers your nose and mouth. To help reduce nasal congestion, you can use a nasal spray or saline rinse before you use BiPAP, or you can use a mask that only covers your nose.
Eye Irritation
BiPAP can cause eye irritation because the air delivered through the mask can dry out your eyes. To help reduce eye irritation, you can use a lubricating eye drop before you use BiPAP.
Skin Irritation
BiPAP can also cause skin irritation because the mask can rub against your skin. To help reduce skin irritation, you can use a hypoallergenic tape or gel pad under the mask.
What should you do if you experience these CPAP or BiPAP Side Effects?
These CPAP and BiPAP side effects can be quite common. Mild symptoms can usually be addressed with small changes to your routine or with over-the-counter products. Most mild symptoms don't require the attention of a doctor. However, if your symptoms worsen, you should also contact your doctor.