Feeling like I cannot breathe with nasal pillow

[Lauratee]

I was just diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea and having trouble with masks. I am waking up in middle of night feeling like I can't breath. I know I can but it gets so bad I take the masks off. Any suggestions? I am going to try a mask tonight that covers my entire nose I'm hoping I will feel less claustaphobic

[robysue]

My suggestion is to try another mask style. Not everybody likes nasal pillows.

I use nasal pillows. Hubby hates them; hubby prefers a small nasal mask. The reason? He feels as though he can't breathe properly when the pillows are stuck up against his nostrils.

[JDS74]

It would be helpful if you could post your equipment and pressure settings.
There is a link in my signature block on how to do this.
It is possible that your EPAP is just a little bit low and increasing it may help with this symptom.

Trying other masks is also a good suggestion. But if you are comfortable with your current nasal mask, then try to make an adjustment before going off on the mask hunt.

[SleepDisturbed]

Try going up one size on the nasal pillow, if you have it.

[waxteeth]

Is your starting pressure set on 4 like mine was before I learned that I need 7 to get "enough air"?

[49er]

I was just diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea and having trouble with masks. I am waking up in middle of night feeling like I can't breath. I know I can but it gets so bad I take the masks off. Any suggestions? I am going to try a mask tonight that covers my entire nose I'm hoping I will feel less claustaphobic

Hi Lauratee,

You might try the Elan Cloth Nasal Mask listed in my equipment profile. It is the only mask I seem to be able to tolerate. No claustraphobia whatsoever.

Best of luck.

49er