very bad nasal stuffiness

[tbas]

As you all know from my posts, I'm having a terrible time. Another thing I've been noticing is I wake up with severe nasal stuffiness, which is one of the reasons, I think, I'm having a hard time with nasal pillows. I've always had a stuffy nose, but it is worse on CPAP. Is it due to the hose? Also can anyone suggest how I can go about starting all over again with a new sleep doctor (he has been no help at all) without going for another sleep study so soon.

[cflame1]

some of the stuffiness could be due to either too much humidity or lack of enough humidity

If your humidifier is on... try messing with the settings on it. If it's not on, turn it on. If it's on high, turn it down. If it's on low, turn it up... etc.

[KatieW]

Yes, we all have a difficult time at 1st. If you read recent posts, you will know that you are not alone, and that others have similar problems. I would suggest making a list of your problems, then tackling them one at a time.

I believe the key is educating yourself, and having a positive attitude that you can take charge of your therapy.

Read and learn what others have done, and what the common problems and solutions are. Ask if you need further help. Read the CPAP Wicki at the top of the page, do a search on specific issues.

Here is a very comprehensive article on cpap issues:

http://smart-sleep-apnea.blogspot.com/

It can seem confusing at 1st, but as you get better rest, and your mind clears, it will get easier.

[fidelfs]

some of the stuffiness could be due to either too much humidity or lack of enough humidity

If your humidifier is on... try messing with the settings on it. If it's not on, turn it on. If it's on high, turn it down. If it's on low, turn it up... etc.

Amen to that.

[spanz]

It could be a number of things. Some noses plug up (the insides swell) when you lie down. Some swell up due to the CPAP pressure. Some react to allergens in the room being pumped in faster with the cpap pressure. The key, like they said,is to try all sorts of stuff and see what works FOR YOU.

[aroche]

I agree one hundred percent. I find that not only did I have to play with the humidifier setting to get it right, as the weather changes I have to keep monitoring the setting to use. But I find that it helps to have a hygrometer in the room to give me an idea of where we are and what setting would be best. Mine came with a floor humidifier we had in our room years ago, but they shouldn't be hard to find.

[araminta]

As much as I enjoy the humidifier, I found that when I was a bit congested, I had to turn it off entirely. So I suspect that if you tend to be congested in general, then perhaps try going without the humidifier and see if it helps.

As others have said, it's about finding out what works for you.

Good luck!

[Muse-Inc]

If your nose congests when you lie flat (mask on or not), try propping up the head of the bed or sleeping on several stacked/layered pillows and see if that helps.

[fellow apneer]

I have kinda the same issue, Dr. perscribed me some Astelin and Nasonix, Also rinse with NeilMed Sinus Rinse twice a day can really help!