Dry mouth can be a side effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy used to treat sleep apnea. During CPAP therapy, a machine delivers pressurized air through a mask to reduce breathing disruptions while sleeping. For some people, this airflow can cause uncomfortable dryness in the mouth.
Various factors contribute to dry mouth during CPAP therapy, and several approaches, including using a CPAP humidifier, may prevent or alleviate this problem.
In this article, we’ll cover key details about dry mouth and how to address it effectively.
Can Using CPAP Cause Dry Mouth?
When using a CPAP mask, dry mouth can be caused by mask leak or being a ‘mouth breather.’
Mask Leaks
It is common for your mask to occasionally leak some air. If the leaks do not last for more than 30 minutes and the leak rate is not high (above 24L/min if your CPAP machine has leak detection), the leaks are likely not large enough to affect your therapy or cause dry mouth.
However, large leaks can cause problems such as dry mouth, dry eyes, and irritated skin.
Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing can happen due to various reasons such as nasal congestion, allergies, physical obstruction, or habit, and can cause unpleasant side effects beyond dry mouth. Ignoring it may lead to bad breath, a sore throat, gum disease, and tooth decay.
How to Prevent CPAP Dry Mouth
Check Your CPAP Mask for Air Leaks
If you’re experiencing leakage from your mask, try refitting it while lying down in the position you usually sleep in. This is because the shape of your face can change when you’re lying down, which can affect how well your mask fits.
If adjusting your mask doesn’t fix the air leakage issue, it may be necessary to replace it. With regular use, the cushion may become flat, the frame may become bent, and the headgear may stretch, all of which can cause air leaks.
Switch to a Full Face Mask
If you use a nasal pillow or mask and your jaw drops during sleep, the pressure from your CPAP machine may escape through your mouth. This can lead to dry mouth and weaken the effectiveness of your apnea treatment. On the other hand, a full face mask can provide effective CPAP therapy regardless of how you breathe.
Use a CPAP Humidifier
Cool and dry air from CPAP machines may cause nasal congestion and throat soreness. A heated humidifier produces warm and moist air, which can help relieve congestion, reduce throat soreness, and prevent dry mouth. In fact, studies have shown that CPAP users using a humidifier were up to 43% more likely to stick with their CPAP treatment!
Try a CPAP Chin Strap
Chronic mouth breathers often experience dry mouth while using a CPAP machine. However, using a chin strap can solve this problem easily. The strap gently supports the jaw, which encourages nasal breathing and helps to maintain a tight seal by keeping the tongue in a proper position. Studies have shown that using a chin strap can help CPAP users use their machines longer and more frequently.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated before bedtime is one of the best ways to prevent dry mouth. You can achieve this by sipping water daily, chewing sugar-free gum, and breathing through your nose. It is important to avoid beverages with alcohol, smoking, and consuming sugary or acidic foods that can increase dryness.
Persistent Dry Mouth
If dry mouth remains bothersome despite attempts to alleviate it, discuss potential adjustments to CPAP settings or explore alternative options with a healthcare provider.Modifying settings without proper guidance is not advisable, as accurate calibration is crucial for effective treatment.
What Else Could Cause Dry Mouth?
It’s important to rule out if your dry mouth is caused by medication or medical conditions before taking drastic measures. If this is the case, the above CPAP tips won’t help. If you experience dry mouth and suspect it may be a side effect of your medication or health condition, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor or healthcare provider.
Sleep Apnea Solutions in Oregon
As a CPAP patient, struggling with dry mouth can cause sleepless nights, leaving you drained and exhausted the next day.
At Sleep Metrics, our team of sleep experts understands how important a good night’s sleep is for your overall well-being. We’re happy to assess your dry mouth symptoms to identify the root cause and provide personalized solutions. We offer a wide range of CPAP supplies, including masks and tubing to filters.
With our top-quality products, you can rest assured that you’ll have everything you need for a successful CPAP therapy experience.
Don’t let dry mouth disrupt your sleep any longer – let Sleep Metrics help you get the rest you deserve!
