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Is Your CPAP Machine Making You Sick?

Submitted by New Jersey Snoring Solutions on Sun 09/26/2021 - 09:00
CPAP Machine in New Jersey

Are you using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine to treat your sleep apnea? Are you aware of the risks and possible side effects that come with using a CPAP machine?

In this post, Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allen Stein of New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions discuss the various ways your CPAP machine may be making you sick.

Stomach Discomfort and Bloating

CPAP machines force air through a hose and mask. This helps to open airways and improve breathing during sleep. However, if the air from the machine goes into your stomach, it can cause discomfort and bloating.

Skin Sores and Irritation

Wearing a mask can be uncomfortable. It can also cause skin sores and irritation, especially if the mask is dirty or doesn’t fit properly. If you have a CPAP machine, you may develop acne, a rash or skin sores from the mask.

Runny Nose, Dry Mouth and Nosebleeds

If you start to suffer from a runny nose, dry mouth, or nosebleeds, your CPAP machine may be to blame. The air from the machine may be causing these symptoms, even if the machine is properly cleaned.

Frequent Illness

If you have a CPAP machine, you may notice that you have begun to suffer from frequent illness. This can include respiratory and sinus infections, as well as headaches and congestion. Your frequent illness may be the result of a dirty CPAP machine which has grown mold and bacteria. If you continue to use a dirty CPAP machine, and breathe in mold and bacteria every night, your body will continue to get sick.

Meningitis

Meningitis is a bacterial infection of the lining of the spinal cord and brain. While rare, meningitis has been associated with CPAP use. Meningitis can be life-threatening. Symptoms of meningitis include stiff neck, high fever, vomiting, severe headache and confusion.

Difficulty Sleeping

A CPAP machine is supposed to help you sleep. However, if the machine isn’t working properly, then your sleeping difficulties will return. This means that you may once again have difficulty breathing while you sleep, which can result in you being tired all of the time.

Consider Alternative Sleep Apnea Treatments

CPAP machines are not the only treatment options available for sleep apnea. If your CPAP machine is making you sick, you should consider oral appliance therapy. Oral appliance therapy is a non-invasive treatment that involves wearing a removable oral appliance when sleeping. Oral appliances help keep the airway clear during sleep, allowing for unobstructed breathing.

If you would like to learn more about sleep apnea oral appliances, contact New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions. We can provide you with more information about your oral appliance options and discuss if oral appliances are right for you.