Question:
Using the C-PAP with a stuffed nose.....

I've been using my C-PAP for a few months now and I wondered what you other users do if your nose is stuffy. My allergies are bad right now (April in Sacramento!!) and my nose is awful. I woke up this morning with my mask pushed up over my forehead - I guess I couldnt' breathe during the night and removed it in my sleep. My problem is that today I feel as weak and sluggish as a wet noodle!! Any suggestions?    — Shrinking M. (posted on April 27, 2004)

April 27, 2004
Blow your nose right before you go to bed. Elevate your head with an extra pillow. Consider whether a humidified cpap would help any. Use a decongestant nosespray for 2-3 days (anything longer than that and it is addictive!).
   — John N.

April 27, 2004
i always put some vicks in my nose it makes me breathe easier. it may be worth a try good luck karen
   — SOFTOUCH

April 27, 2004
I am a Registered Sleep Technologist and I would recommend a heated humidifier. Most insurance companies will cover it for chronic nasal congestion. If you have lost a good amount of weight then your may need to re-evaluated to have your pressure decreased. Call the equipment company that you got your machine from and they should be able to help you.
   — tammie R.

April 27, 2004
I also agree that you need a heated humidifier...it will help releave any drying out of your passages. also since your physicians deems it medically necessary you will have no problems with the insurance compamies.
   — jennifer B.

April 28, 2004
Chronic nasal congestion is one reason why I could never use a CPAP. A heated humidifier never worked for me, the only thing that worked was a nasal decongestent. You should take something for your allergies which should help clear your nose. Perhaps you can use a nasal decongestant until that happens, but you can only use them for three days or there could be a rebound effect.
   — Lisa N M.

April 28, 2004
Hidee ho neighbor! I am in Sacramento too! I know all about allergies here! When I got my C-PAP machine, I asked this question and the techician told me NEVER to use your C-PAP with a stuffy nose (allergies, cold or otherwise) or it could give you a wicked sinus infection by pushing the mucus into the sinuses. Be careful! Erinn P.S. What area of Sac do you live in? I live in Midtown.
   — Erinn D.

April 28, 2004
I have problems with stuffy nose too but, hate to go without my c-pap. My resp. therapist told me to use just a plain saline nasal spray, it helps clear me out. Then, with the humidifier, I usually stay clear the rest of the night. If I have it bad and can't use c-pap at all, I sleep sitting up. It sucks but, my doctor says it helps.
   — amyarlene

April 29, 2004
I am also a registered sleep tech. When a heated humidifer didn't work the doctors I worked with would prescribe a nasal spray, such as Vancenase.
   — LLinderman