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What do you do about congestion when using your CPAP/APAP?

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singingkeys +0 points · about 5 years ago Original Poster Sleep Commentator

I'll be starting out using ResMed Air Sense 10 with nasal pillow mask, but pondering if I should also get a face mask for times when I have a cold/allergy and don't want something crammed into my nose. What do you all do when you're sick and still need it to sleep?

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Sierra +0 points · about 5 years ago Sleep Patron

I use a nasal pillow mask all the time, along with mouth taping. I have a brand new AirFit F20 full face mask in my storage box, that I suppose I could use if I got a really bad cold. I dislike the mask so I really hope that situation never happens. If I am congested I just use one squirt of Walmart generic Otrivin in the affected side. I do try to minimize use of it, as it can cause a rebound effect. My experience is that with a nasal mask and mouth taping my nose stays clear all night if I start with a clear nose.

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bonjour +0 points · about 5 years ago Sleep Commentator

I used to recommend everyone have a FFM in their bag to use when badly congested. Now I suggest perseverance. I put on my pillows (ResMed P10 Pillow mask) and mouth breath, both inhale and exhale when I need to, using the pillows and nasal breathing as much as possible, I always find that the pressure will prevail and the sinuses will always open, it has taken me as long as 10 minutes for really severe congestion where you think no way will this ever work, and I'm sure you are somewhat different than I am.

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Biguglygremlin +0 points · about 5 years ago Sleep Enthusiast

Same here singingkeys

I've been using nuance nasal pillows (which don't jam into the nose but just float on the nose) for years now and have my share of congestion but generally if you can clear the nostrils and sinuses as well as possible the CPAP airflow will keep it clear for the duration of the night.

There is congestion and there is swelling from infection or allergies and you need to deal with both.

I also use decongestant nasal spray when desperate but I understand that the steroid spray is more effective in the long run but you need to apply it earlier (an hour or two beforehand) and consistently (every night) or at least that is the impression I got from my local chemist.

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