Eye Irritation/Infection

[Nanahill]

I have been having issues with my eyes, and I believe it is caused by my CPAP. I tried using a full face mask but had issues with leakage. I then moved to a nasal pillow, which works really well, but I think the air pressure so close to the eyes is causing issues. My eyes are red and burn, and I have huge bags under my eyes. As long as I use a steroid drop, they are fine, but when the drop is stopped, my eyes immediately get bad. The doctors are stumped, and I was just wondering if other CPAP users had issues with their eyes.

Any input would be greatly appreciated!

[KatieW]

I researched this recently:

viewtopic/t49026/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=48 ... 99#p446899

What I have done is:

- attend to mask leaks (I use a nasal mask)
- close eyes when adjusting for leaks, so air doesn't blow into my eyes
- adjust bedding so exhaust air doesn't bounce back to my face
- tried several eyes drops--see the Eye Digest article
- started Omega 3 supplements
- stopped taking Claritin, as it can dry the eyes
- drinking more water during day

[harry33]

try wearing swimming goggles, also wash mask often in warm water with mild detergent

[Scott Harrison]

I noticed issues with my eyes too. I would frequently wake up with very watery eyes and sometimes I'd wake up with red eyes and also get eye infections (I have it now and it's a pain). I'm sure this is cpap related. My theory is that the pressure inside my nasal passages is preventing my eyes from properly draining through whatever tube connects the eyes/ears/throat. The pressure causes a backflow essentially. Either that or it's air leaking from the mask but I don't think it's that. Not sure what to do other than treat the infections.

[Julie]

Tiny amounts of air can get into your eyes from the mask edges and dry your eyes. You can ask your pharmacist ('chemist') or eye doctor for the best drops to use. Don't assume "infection" when it might not be valid.

[zack243]

the lacrimal duct drains tears from the eye to the nose. These ducts have a series of "one-way valves" to prevent the nasal contents from traveling up the duct to the eye. Bottom line is that IF the duct is working properly, tears should be able to travel to the nose, but the contents of your nose should not get into your eyes. A lot of IPAP/EPAP pressure can prevent eye drainage and thus cause tearing. However, unless something is wrong with the duct, the CPAP air should not go from the nose to your eyes. Pinch your nose and shut your mouth and try to exhale. You should not have air enter your eye if the lacrimal duct is functioning normally.

So, all the previous information was to say, IMO, the air irritation to your eyes is probably due to mask leak or exhaust that is bouncing into your eyes. I have had two opthamologists over the years tell me that most of their CPAP patients have chronic red/inflammed eyes. Their drug of choice is a steroid solution for severe cases, but most cases are treated via an OTC dry eyes solution at bedtime, better hydration, and CPAP related changes (mask and exhaust).