stuffy nose

I am getting a cold, my nose is stuffy and I have a headache and my throat hurts, I can still breathe some out of my nose, i have been using saline spray to try to keep in clear
my question is should I use my cpap , I had a terrible time on it last night, but not sure what was going on, if I was getting a cold or just having a hard time with the nasal mask

I have just had my first "cold" or sinus infection with CPAP. I would encourage you to try to use it, if you can. I have found that it seemed to be less severe, possibly because my Eustachian tubes were kept open by the CPAP.

I didn't switch masks, but do use a Hybrid or Liberty already. Many folks keep a full face (FF or ff) mask just for this kind of situation.

Of course, you can only do what you can do. Most of us have become very fond of just breathing for survival. (OK, I couldn't resist! ) If the mask won't work, the next best thing is to sleep as upright as you can become. That may mean using a recliner or propping yourself upright on the bed or other piece of furniture somehow.

Best wishes, and I hope that someone has a better suggestion for you.

When I get this I find the pillows or even prongs help tremendiously in keeping my airway open. I turn the heat up on the HH and let it expand the airway to allow the mucus to find its way out. yuk! ha Good luck and keep on keeping on. jim

While I have yet to have the experience of having to deal with a cold/flu and CPAP, I have had to endure a similar situation with my allergies.

I have used the saline nasal spray but found it not enough. I started using one of those nasal rinses during my allergy attacks and have found it to provide better relief than the nasal spray. I do it right before putting on the mask. Your local pharmacy (like Walgreens) should carry them if you are interested. Takes some getting use to since it is not natural to run saline solution through one's nose.

Humidity helps. Take a hot shower before bed. Helps open up the sinuses.

You may want to invest in a full face mask for future colds/flu, as birdshell mentioned. A full face mask is a must for me to have on hand. I don't like them but I am not going to go a night without the extra air.

Don't forget to get your flu shot this fall.

Get Well!