Swallowing Saliva with CPAP Plugs My Ears

[MikeekiM]

When I swallow with my CPAP on (and it doesn't seem to matter which style mask I am using), my ears get plugged/blocked like when you get when you are on a plane that is decending.

I have found that it is best for me to remove the hose from the mask, or slightly lift the cushion off my face momentarily to swallow in order to avoid this phenomenon.

Is this a common problem, or is it just me? I spoke with a friend who has been on CPAP for well over a decade and he tells me that he's never heard of this problem before and does not experience it himself.

[ChicagoGranny]

Is this a common problem, or is it just me?

Problems with ears are not common, but it does happen.

Best to post an OSCAR chart in this thread for members to review.

[chunkyfrog]

Eustachian tube dysfunction is common. (Quote from Wikipedia)
Yawning helps equalize air pressure.

[Janknitz]

I have heard (not positive it will work) that putting an ear plug in ONE ear (not both) helps with this. It's worth a try--you can get foam earplugs at any drug store. Let us know if it helps.

[ChicagoGranny]

ear plug in ONE ear

Hmmm? I wonder if the airplane pressure relief style would work best? https://www.walgreens.com/store/c/macks ... 46-product

[RNeil]

When you yawn or swallow, you are equalizing the pressure between your throat and your inner ear. CPAP makes the throat pressure higher so that the inner ear pressure will be higher than the outer pressure. The difference is usually not a problem.

[Coatimundi]

I have to do the same thing as you OP, but that's during maybe the first 5-10 minutes of being on the machine. Afterward I can swallow with no problem.

[loggerhead12]

Two things:

First, the pressure will reduce in a few minutes on its own.

Second, you can disconnect the hose momentarily, perform the Valsalva maneuver, and reconnect to the hose to make it go away immediately. Close your mouth, pinch your nose, and gently exhale against the pressure. You'll feel your ears pop and the pressure will be gone.