Nasal congestion and nasal mask

[ellen1159]

Hi everyone, haven't posted in a while. Still looking for a comfortable mask that doesn't leak, on my fourth try now, Fisher Paykel Eson.

I have chronic allergies and a deviated septum (not severe) that cause congestion. I'm usually okay with the use of a daily nasal steroid (OTC) spray, Allegra D and/or nasal strip, in addition to the positive air pressure going up my nostrils. This morning when I took my mask off my nasal passages were really swollen. I've had a headache, muscle tension in my scalp, head and neck, and I was more tired than usual all day. Wondering if I wasn't getting good therapy last night because I was struggling to breathe through my nose (I keep my lips together with a piece of first aid tape, since they tend not to stay together naturally, since I've been using a nasal mask)? My AHI was 4.56 when I checked my bipap machine card on Sleepyhead just now.

I couldn't get used to a full face mask when I was first dx'd, the hurricane-force made it impossible for me to sleep and the drymouth killed me. I was able to use the machine with a nasal mask and tape (chin straps made me claustrophobic and wouldn't stay put). I'm lucky, I haven't had a head cold or flu for several years now.

Where would I look on my Sleepyhead report to find out if I was struggling to breathe?

Thanks,

[RebornSleeper]

Ellen1159,

I wish I had some help for you. I'm in the same boat. I always have sinus issues. The pressure of the air actually helps me breathe. But as soon as I take my mask off in the morning, I'm so swollen. Massive headaches, sinus and teeth pain. Feel just plain horrible. It didn't used to be this way but it is now. I have also noticed on my sleepyhead reports that the days that I feel the worst were the days that my apap used higher pressures to keep my ahi down. My doc has ordered a ct scan to look for polyps and what not.

I hope you get some help!