CPAP/BIPAP and Scalloped Tongue

Hello everybody, I have been reading some of the post on here and wanted to share my experience:

Cpap user for 7+ years. Nasal congestion very bad, that has subsided recently and in it's place I now have a "scalloped" tongue with many cracks. Pain varies, doctor and dentist say it's from tongue thrusting at night. Can anybody relate?

ADDITIONAL INFO:

ME: Mid-40's, 22inch neck circumfrance, big frame, VERY LOUD Snorer without CPAP/BIPAP Use.

Mask: Mirage Quatro 2-full face

Air Pressure: 23

I have the chin strap as well, I use it as often as possible, I have tried several diferent full face mask and nasal mask. This newest problem, of cracked and "scalloped" tongue has only been going on for several weeks. Both my Doctor and my Dentist do not seem concerned, they made me a very thin upper mouth gaurd seveal days ago, which I have been using with (apparently) no problems.

Has anyone else experienced this problem?

Make sure your teeth are always very clean where your tongue touches.
Any irritation can contribute to tongue lesions

kingjames5z wrote:This newest problem, of cracked and "scalloped" tongue has only been going on for several weeks.

Do you have untreated reflux? See http://doctorstevenpark.com/sleep-apnea ... ening-test

Do you stay well hydrated?

Yes, the nurse brought up acid reflux/GERD. I am currently using a medicated mouthwash and have switched to Biotene toothpaste and mouthwash. The dry, cracked tongue is real bothersome-it is finally healing up, but the CPAP mask and all that dry air exposes my tongue everynight.

Thanks for the feedback-I have found several very good articles on correlating scalloped tongue with Sleep Apnea. It seems to be a clear indicator of OSA. SO despite my 7+ years of CPAP use, I am now experiencing this phenomena.

Chunkyfrog: I have always taken very good care of my teeth, I am brushing twice a day and using the medicated mouthwash several times a day.


Chicagogranny: I am purposely trying to drink more water, I usually do drink plenty of water (during the Spring and Summer) but here in Southern CA it has been 65 degrees and windy-I have not been drinking as much water as I should be.