ASK APRIA

Today's Clinician

Allie Smothers

Allie has been a Registered Respiratory Therapist for two years and helps Apria's patients in southwest Missouri. Allie's favorite part of work is solving challenges patients face with their medical equipment and helping to improve their quality of life. When not at work, Allie enjoys traveling with friends and finding new music.

Q. I sleep on my side and that causes my mask to leak, which raises the air pressure, leaving me with bad dry mouth. Any suggestions?

A. The first thing I would recommend that you do is to adjust your mask while you're laying down on your side (instead of sitting up or laying on your back). Since you're a side sleeper, a looser fit may work better for you instead of tightening it too much, which can create gaps when you move.

I would also look in to getting a CPAP pillow and mask liners. CPAP pillows are specifically designed to accommodate CPAP masks and have grooves for the mask to rest in so it doesn't knock off your face when you lie on your side. Mask liners also help reduce any mask leaks.

Another thing to consider is looking in to getting a different type of mask if you are able. Certain masks are better-suited for side-sleeping. Ideally, try a nasal mask or nasal pillows. If you have to use a full face mask, try a mask that's low profile. Low profile masks are sleeker and sit closer to your face. Additionally, if you already use a nasal mask/pillow, try adding a chin strap to cut down on the dry mouth.

Lastly, for good measure, I would also increase your humidifier setting as well.

For more information: The right CPAP mask for your sleeping position.

Q. Why does my machine shut off after an hour of use?

A. There are a few reasons that your machine might be turning off after a short amount of time.

The first reason is that your machine has the auto-off feature enabled. This is when a CPAP machine will automatically turn off if it detects that you have taken off your mask or if there is a large air leak. Sometimes this might be erroneously activated when the mask shifts while you sleep.

Another option is that if the device is set with a ramp time, it could be turning off after the ramp period ends if it doesn't detect proper breathing, especially if your mask is not sealed properly.

Lastly, CPAP devices will shut down for safety measures. It could be that it's overheating. Make sure that your device is in a well-ventilated area and there isn't anything blocking it.

Contact your local Apria branch and speak to a Respiratory Therapist, we can help troubleshoot what is going on with your machine and get that fixed.

Q. My nose and the area under my nose tickles when I use my CPAP. I end up having to push my mask up and scratch it. Are there ways to stop this from happening?

A. It sounds like your mask fit may be the issue here. Your mask may be slightly too loose or out of alignment, causing small air leaks that can tickle and dry out the skin. Make sure that your mask fits snuggly on your face without being too tight.

It also might be skin sensitivity and the mask material or frequent air blowing on your skin is causing you to itch. To fix that, try using a mask liner or a nasal pad. These provide a barrier between your skin and the mask, reducing any irritation.

Lastly, try using CPAP-compatible gel around your nostrils to keep your skin moisturized and turn up your humidifier.

For more information: CPAP-related dermatitis.

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