Preventing CPAP Mouth Leaks: Solutions for Effective Sleep Therapy

If you use a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine to reduce the unwanted effects of sleep apnea, but wake in the morning still feeling tired, with a dry mouth or swollen nasal passages, you may be experiencing air leakage from your mouth during sleep. If the mouth leak is significant, it can reduce the effectiveness of your treatment and result in unpleasant side effects. Mouth leakage can be reduced, and even avoided, by making adjustments in your treatment regime that will improve CPAP effectiveness and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Things You'll Need

• Chin strap
• Full face mask

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Instructions

• 1

  Try sleeping in a different position to the norm. If you sleep on your back, try sleeping on your side. Air leaks from the mouth when it is open during sleep. A different position may help to keep your mouth closed and avoid any leakage.

• 2

  Train your tongue to help seal your mouth during sleep. Place your tongue tip behind your upper teeth and allow the body of it to spread out and seal the mouth. Even if your mouth opens during sleep, the position of the tongue will help reduce air leakage.

• 3

  Use a chin-strap to keep your mouth closed. These can be obtained from your sleep specialist. Straps are made from comfortable materials and help improve CPAP effectiveness.

• 4

  Add a humidifier and air-warmer to your CPAP setup. Many models of CPAP machines are able to support the addition of these units. The warm, moistened air helps to soothe nasal membranes and, as the air passage is smoother and easier, there is less chance that air will pass through the mouth.

• 5

  Switch to a full-face mask. This effectively seals both the nose and mouth so, if your nasal passages become blocked during the night, or if you persistently breath through your mouth, the positive air pressure will not be compromised. Speak to your health care professional about the best mask design for your needs.