Dry and Soar.

Hey folks, I've been using the CPAP for about 3 months. Generally I have been doing ok with it. For the past 2 weeks I've been waking up several times a night and in the morning with the mother of all dry mouths! I see from some other posts that this happens to others. I know that my mouth is opening and air is blowing out. I am still breathing thru my nose but some air is leaking back and going out my mouth like a constant exhale. So based on the replies to other posts I'm thinking I should try a mask that covers my mouth and nose. I have BCBS and they paid for the machine. My question is who do I call? Should I call the company who brought the machine to my house? Any advise on what to ask for? Thanks DC

David, Do call the company that got you the machine. I have the same problem. I got a chin strap to hold my mouth shut, but my mouth is still so dry. I upped the humidity output too. On balance, my life is so much better: no more headaches, no more sleepiness during the day or falling asleep while driving! But, this dryness is a definite pain, especially waking up at night. I have water to drink, but the relief doesn't last long. If you figure this out, let us all know. The secret may be the total face mask. Donna

Chin strap did it for me after that I was fine. BCBS will pay for a new mask every 6 weeks and a hose replacment. Mention this when you speak with you medical supply company. Goodluck Randy

that's exactly what i had to do. and i have bcbs so what i did was i borrowed that mask from my sleep clinic first for a week to see if i liked it because bcbs will only give a new mask every few months so i had to make sure it was what i wanted. then i returned it and the sleep clinic put through the order to my medical supply place.

get a heated humidifier