CPAP and Foam Earplugs: Any problem?

[Jay K]

I often find myself in hotels, usually quiet ones but sometimes noisy ones. So I'm wondering whether there is any adverse consequence from using foam earplugs (such as those manufactured by EAR) while using a CPAP or APAP. I've already done so a few times, but it feels a bit weird (in contrast to when I have used earplugs when not hooked up to my machine) and hence the question.

[xenablue]

I use earplugs so DH's snoring doesn't wake me. I use those soft, squishy ones and for me, the most comfortable are Sperion brand which are two-toned pink and yellow.

They don't interfere with my CPAP at all, but I guess it would depend on your headgear. I use 3 different masks plus the Bella Loops on my Swift FX sometimes and even with those the ear plugs don't bother me.

chees,
xena

[jnk]

I always sleep with earplugs. I personally consider the use of earplugs to be good commonsense sleep hygiene for where I live (NYC).

Earplugs can sometimes increase the white noise of using PAP, depending, especially with some masks or if the tubing is near the noggin--but I consider that to be an added benefit, myself, since noises, especially ones our brains haven't grown accustomed to over time, can cause sleep arousals just as easily as breathing difficulties can.

The only contraindication I can think of is the need for the ability to be awakened by subtle noises for safety reasons--yours or that of someone who depends on you. It can be difficult to hear a distant smoke alarm, for example, with certain earplugs.

[RogerSC]

I use foam earplugs, been sleeping with them for years. When I first started on CPAP, I noticed that they kind of amplify my internal noises, like breathing sounds, which are louder with CPAP *smile*. But I'm a light sleeper, so earplugs are good for me to get more sleep at home, as well as when I'm traveling. No problems, I just feel like I'm sleeping in Darth Vader's helmet occasionally *smile*.

[Xney]

I've used the cheap foam ones with CPAP/BiPAP with no problems. As some posters have mentioned, it can change the sound a bit, though I don't think it's a bad thing. Try it out before you "need" them to see what it's like

[archangle]

It might have some minor effect on how your ears pop when you turn on CPAP pressure, but it doesn't seem likely to be a big problem.

[fluke]

I've been using them for years - no problems have been encountered (outside of the fact that I can't hear the phone when the plugs are in )

[Java Time]

When I first started using CPAP and earplugs, I noticed a little additional pressure in my ears. Also a little amplification of "internal" breathing sounds as mentioned by others.

After a few days I stopped noticing the additional pressure. I've been on the hose for over a year using earplugs with no negative affects that I know of.

[growing]

Dear All
Can this practice in any way affect hearing? I am a regular user.

[Thomas Andrew]

I use foam earplugs, been sleeping with them for years. When I first started on CPAP 9 months ago, I noticed that they kind of amplify my breathing sounds. But I'm a light sleeper, so earplugs are good for me. But no problems combining the ear plugs and CPAP machine.

[chunkyfrog]

No earplugs.
We sleep 200' away from one of the busiest railroad corridors in the country.
The double-glazed, low-E windows the bullfrog installed are AWESOME!

[Jaylee]

I wear the squishy foam ones every night because DP snores and the dog occasionally barks, etc. I haven't noticed any issues with using them with my BiPap, just that I hear the machine and my breathing more.