Apr 7th 2023
How to Prevent Dry Mouth While Sleeping With a CPAP Machine
Using a CPAP machine is crucial for achieving a restful night's sleep for individuals with sleep apnea. Yet dry mouth can be a common issue that some CPAP users may encounter, causing discomfort and negatively affecting the effectiveness of their therapy.
If you’re wondering how to prevent dry mouth while sleeping with a CPAP machine, we have answers for you.
What Causes Dry Mouth With a CPAP Machine?
A dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia, occurs when there is reduced saliva production in the mouth.
CPAP therapy focuses on using a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. This helps prevent episodes of interrupted breathing that are characteristic of sleep apnea. However, this continuous air flow can sometimes cause dryness in the mouth, leading to discomfort and other issues.
The air delivered by the CPAP machine can flow through the mouth, bypassing the nasal passage, especially when the mouth is open during sleep. This can result in reduced moisture in the oral cavity, leading to dry mouth. The pressurized air from the CPAP machine can also cause the evaporation of saliva, further contributing to the problem.
Here are some common causes of dry mouth while using a CPAP machine:
Air Leakage
If your CPAP mask does not fit or there are air leaks around it, it can result in the air from the CPAP machine blowing directly into your mouth, causing dryness.
Mouth Breathing
Some CPAP users tend to breathe through their mouth while sleeping, which can bypass the humidified air from the CPAP machine, leading to dry mouth.
High-Pressure Settings
CPAP machines have adjustable pressure settings, and higher pressure may cause more air to flow through the mouth.
Humidification Settings
If the humidification settings on your CPAP machine are not adjusted properly, it can result in insufficient moisture being delivered to your airway.
How Can You Prevent Dry Mouth While Sleeping?
Dry mouth is nothing new to sleep experts, so there are practical steps you can take to prevent dry mouth. Follow the tips below to alleviate dry mouth while using your CPAP machine:
Ensure Proper Mask Fit
Be sure your CPAP mask fits snugly over your nose or nose and mouth without any air leaks. If you experience leakage, consider trying a different mask style or size to find the best fit for you.
You can explore GoCPAP's masks here.
Use a Chin Strap
A chin strap can help keep your mouth closed during sleep, reducing the likelihood of mouth breathing and preventing dry mouth. Various types of chin straps are available, such as those that attach to your CPAP mask or standalone options.
Here are a few options you can find at GoCPAP:
Optimize Humidification
Adjust the humidification settings on your CPAP machine to ensure that you are receiving adequate moisture. Most CPAP machines have a humidifier chamber that can be filled with distilled water to add moisture to the air you breathe. A higher setting brings more vaporized water into the mouth.
Try a Heated Humidifier
Consider using a CPAP machine with a heated humidifier. Heated humidifiers can provide warmer, more humid air, which can help prevent dry mouth.
Here are some options you can try:
- Philips Respironics DreamStation Go Heated Humidifier
- ResMed AirSense 10 Standard CPAP with HumidAir Heated Humidifier
Talk to Your Doctor
If you continue to experience dry mouth despite trying these tips, consult your healthcare provider or sleep specialist. They may be able to adjust your CPAP settings or recommend additional solutions to address the issue.
Visit GoCPAP to Find Your Prevention Strategy
A dry mouth while using a CPAP machine can be bothersome, but it can be managed effectively with the right precautions. Ensuring things like proper mask fit, using a chin strap, and optimizing humidification settings are solutions that help most sleep apnea patients.
Visit gocpap.com today to find your dry mouth prevention solution.
