Nasal congestion is the most common side effect of CPAP therapy. A runny, itchy or dry nose, or nosebleeds may also occur. Nasal congestion often subsides after the first month. It also tends to be more common among people with OSA. This congestion is not always a result of CPAP and is likely to happen in the colder months and during allergy season. We recommend consulting your doctor if your congestion is severe, or if you have nasal, sinus or ear pain. Here are three steps you can take to mitigate nasal problems:
- Apply a few sprays of saline nasal spray (a mixture of salt and water) in each nostril before using your CPAP. You can find this at your local drugstore.
- Use a nasal decongestant, either in the form of a spray or a tablet that you take by mouth. It’s recommended that you never use a spray for more than a few days. Some types require a prescription from your doctor who may also recommend a specific decongestant for you.
- Add moisture to the forced air by using a CPAP humidifier. This will reduce your nasal symptoms, but make sure to keep your humidifier clean to prevent infection. Some CPAP models already have a humidifier connected to the unit. The two types of CPAP humidifiers available to you are the heated humidifier and the cold “passover” humidifier. Either type can help you breathe easier, but sleep experts primarily recommend a heated humidifier.