CPAP changes breathing patterns, long term impact?

Sorry is this is a newbie question as I've only had two nights on a CPAP -- ResMed AirSense10.

I notice that I am always either inhaling or exhaling, there is no pause between breaths. This is not how normal people sleep.

Also the muscles which cause my chest to inhale are not being used, the air just rushes into my lungs as soon as I allow it. The muscles which exhale have to work harder than usual to overcome the pressure.

Anyone thought about the long term consequences of these two things?

CS108! Welcome. What mode is your machine operating in? The AirSense is capable of several modes. What type mask are you using? What pressure(s) were prescribed (inhale/exhale)?

Hi,

You check the ration of the exhale and inhale in the machine. I had trials for couple of days, for the first day it was very difficult because the as I exhaled the next pressure for inhale was too much which I was not able to take and my trial went bad that night.

Second day my technican changed the settings of inhale and exhale then it was better.

I hope you need to tweak the machine with a help of a technician while your are sleeping, further you might need a humidefier if you having leak or your mouth is getting drier.

Thanks Daniel

Hi CarlSam108. I'm not sure about long term consequences, but the feeling of working harder to exhale is normal for most after starting treatment. You are used to exhaling against room air pressure and not against positive pressure going into your airway. I had the same experience when I started using CPAP. Over time as I adjusted to treatment, breathing became easier. I no longer notice the positive pressure. Practice can help with adjusting to the feeling of CPAP. You might consider wearing your treatment in the evening while reading or watching television. Best wishes, and please keep us posted!