CPAP & allergies

[michwelle]

Just a quick question...started on CPAP 12/13/10 and am doing really well. Good numbers and very few leaks, BUT my allergies, which use to be manageable without med's, have become brutal, at least one to two days per week. Yesterday I must have sneezed in the triple digits, with watery itchy eyes, runny nose, ect. Can CPAP therapy cause this, and if so, what is a good prescription to ask my Doctor for. I have an appt. on Friday. I love my CPAP. I even look forward to putting it on and going to sleep, but this new development is driving me crazy. Thanks in advance for any help.


~Michwelle/Michelle

[harry33]

all masks, headgear and airhoses need soaking in warm water with mild detergent and gentle washing to remove chemicals remaining from the making of them, release agent, etc, suck water into airhose and leave it all to soak
its also possible that new masks may 'outgass' chemicals for a while

many masks have silicone rubber which can cause allergies to some, if so masks using other plastics are available

cpap use gives more energy and is good for your heart

[rosiefrosie]

Do you use a humidifier and if so what is it set at? You could try adjusting the setting. You'll have to experiment with either turning it up or down and see if this helps.

rosie

[Muse-Inc]

Lots of us have chronic nasal problems, allergies to sinusitis to rhinitis. Soaking new equipment is absolutely needed; mild soap and water for several hrs. If this doesn't help, post again and we'll chime in with some more suggestions.