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I've been using CPAP for 4-5 years. I started having an issue a few months ago where air is getting forced into my ears. I have lowered my pressure down to 7-8 to keep the pressure in my ears down. Now I'm having terrible sleep and I'm tired all the time. I saw an ENT a few weeks ago and the ENT suggested putting a tube in my eardrum and any pressure from the machine could get released. Has anyone had this issue or tubes put in?

The little tube the ENT may be thinking of is called a 'grommet', and the condition it is often fitted for, particularly in children, is called 'glue ear', the glue being a mixture of sweat-like liquid and ear wax.

Air being blown along your eustachian tube is a side effect of sleep apnea treatment, and the suggested explanation is that the incoming air provokes the production of the liquid and of extra wax.

You might have a suitable medical person take a look at your ears. The build up of 'glue' sometimes becomes infected. The fitting of a grommet prevents that, and also allows any trapped air tio escape.

Thanks Rick. Yes, I have read about it. I’m not sure if I have fluid. Her recommendation was putting in a grommet for air to release. Tinnitus also started several months ago with this “pressure” issue. My hearing was tested and they say I have some high frequency hearing loss. I’m stuck between ineffective therapy or ear pressure and pain.

Before considering adding a tube, ask to try acetic acid (it's a prescription level stuff) for a month. It eliminated the buildup that I had and all was well for that issue. I can't help on the tinnitus - I have it, but had it long before cpap.