blocked, stuffy nose and nasal mask

[len7@telkomsa.net]

After a year of using my mask, my nose was blocked nightly. Had sinus surgery and surgery for a deviated nasal septum. Condition is not allergic. Controlled with nasal spray and antihistamines. Is this a frequent occurrence with other cpap users? I didn't think that I would need a humidifier because I live on the coast. Would using a humidifier improve the blocked nose.?

[cpapwest]

I have the same problem. I have been on a apap machine for 5 years. I have deviated septum but the doctors say that because my nasal passages are so narrow he couldn't guarantee it would work. I do use a humidify as it keeps the nose moist. I find Nasal hayfever sprays don't do much good. Try using FESS (which is just saline) to irrigate your nose before you put the mask on, and again if you wake during the night, it does help.

Keeping your machine clean also is important.

Ross

[robysue]

If the congestion is pretty chronic you might also find sinus rinses or using a neti pot nightly may help. They're useful for any kind of chronic congestion, not just congestion caused by allergies.