Stuffed sinuses

First some basic info...I have been on an APAP machine for about 3 mos, it is a Resmed air sense 10 auto set, with a Resmed P10 nasal pillow. I love the machine and my apneas have gone from 50+ to less than 2 per hour, I clean my nose piece daily and the hose weekely. However, I have been having serious problems with stopped up and running sinuses when I awake...I will spend HOURS snerking snorting and sneezing just as soon as I remove the head gear upon awaking in the morning...almost terminally so...has anyone else had similar problems or a suggestion for a cure/relief for this condition........... thanks......... madjack

madjack, It might be time to try a different type mask. The positive air pressure seems to be keeping your airway open but unless you have had allergies or chronic sinus issues in the past, the mask could well be the culprit. Only other thing would be something in the hose or water tank (like mold?). I doubt it is something in the water tank or hose and more likely the mask irritating but worth a check. If you recently picked up a pet, well, that one is obvious.

How are you using your humidifier? The AirSense 10 has one built in, so you obviously have a humidifier, but how is it set? Humidification normally helps with these issues, but if you humidifier is not set right it won't do as good a job as it might. Do you empty your humidifier chamber every day?

My sinuses just do not like that air coming through the mask. Tried many different masks over time. I also have an almost immediate issue in the morning and finally have come up with a routine. I use a nasal spray called XCLEAR first thing in the am. Most health stores carry it. Sometimes I can find it in drugstores as it is becoming better known. Its main ingredient is XYLITOL. My sleep doctor knows of it. What I like about it is that I can use it whenever I need it, unlike Flonase or Afrin etc. that only say to use once every 4-6 hours

Some individuals have good luck with nasal irrigation. There are several products out there. Neil Med is a well known one. Alkalol is another. The latter is also becoming available in some drug stores. I used to do irrigation until I discovered XCLEAR. Your first attempt at irrigation will feel weird, but it can be most beneficial.

As for humidity...I need a lot. This will take some experimentation on your part as it is a very personal preference. Along with my machine humidifier, I also have the Fischer Paykel HC 150 hooked up to my CPAP machine. I live in Florida, which is very humid to begin with. It may be why I need more.

Thanks for mentioning the humidifier. ..I had been running it on high, turned it down to 4 a month back....when I checked it last night it was turned off...don't remember doing that...turned it back up to 4 and everything seems nice and normal this morning...attacked by another senior moment...(-; thanks.........madjack