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Annoying "clicking" sound in my nasal pillow

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cosmasad +0 points · about 6 years ago Original Poster

Hello,

I have been using a CPAP machine now for a month and every now and then my nasal pillow seems to "click" when I inhale. The clicking seems to be something in the pillow "snapping" or moving. It happens unpredictably every now and then but is disturbing to my sleep. I'm wondering if anyone else has had experience like this and whether there's a solution?

Thank you.

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Sierra +0 points · about 6 years ago Sleep Patron

Full face type masks can have a flapper valve in them, but to my knowledge nasal pillow masks do not. They just have a vent where air escapes out. What specific make and model of mask do you have?

I have a ResMed AirFit P10 nasal pillow mask and I have very occasionally heard what sounds like a clicking or popping noise when I am getting into bed with the machine already on. I don't recall having in mid sleep when I wake up. I frankly don't know what causes the sound in my case, and since it only occurs occasionally before sleep, I have not worried about it. I suppose it possibly could be some nasal congestion.

Do you have a heated hose and have your machine set on auto climate control? Some, and especially those without a heated hose, can have trouble with moisture in the tubing. It may cause noise. I suppose overfilling the humidifier reservoir might do it as well.

My wife uses a F&P Brevida nasal pillow mask. She sometimes has trouble with the nasal extensions collapsing. However, that happens on exhale, and it feels like a blockage making it difficult to exhale.

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cosmasad +0 points · about 6 years ago Original Poster

Wow, thanks for your very full reply. I have a ResMed AirSense 10 device with a Swift Fx Nasal Pillow system. I wonder if that makes any difference?

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Sierra +0 points · about 6 years ago Sleep Patron

My recollection is that another contributor here, SnuzyQ, uses that mask, so perhaps will comment on any quirks it may have.

Do you have the heated ClimateLIne hose? Where is the machine located, elevation wise to your head when sleeping? The concern would be if there is any spot where water could pool in the hose... This issue is generally called rainout. See this link from ResMed.

Rainout FAQ

I recalled after my first post, that I once move my machine with the hose connected and the humidifier full of water. Water got into the hose and that was a problem until I got up and dumped it out!

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Turquoiseturtle +0 points · about 6 years ago

I am also using the same system as you, cosmasad. If you look closely at the nasal pillow, be sure the central part of each pillow is poked out. I check each day when I wash it.

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cosmasad +0 points · about 6 years ago Original Poster

Thank you, guys. I appreciate the tips!

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