Newbie: Flu like symptoms after intial CPAP

Completed my 2nd overnight study with a CPAP nasel mask on Friday. Felt ok Sat morning but red marks/irratation on nose bridge. Sunday - nose bridge irratation was worse and then slight fever (100.3) and stomach bloating and discomfort in the thoracic diaphragm area just below chest. Took tlyenol and reduced slight fever. More chest/stomach discomfort on Monday. Called dr to go over possible side effects - he is reviewing test results and I'll follow up with him later today. Tuesday - woke up with sore throat and nasel congestion and chest discomfort now moved to lower part of stomach - still some discomfort. In summary, seems like flu like side effects. I'm not certain if related to the CPAP mask study on Friday or if I just got sick or possible infection from study. Has anyone else had similiar side effects from initial study? I'm worried aboout the potential purchase of CPAP mask and continued use. Dr said I had a mild to moderate apena - but have high blood pressure and migraines - Thanks for any insight!

When I first started, I know I had the discomfort, nasal congestion (still do sometimes) and even the sort throat but not a fever. It could just be coincidence. Do you have a humidifier, and if so, are you using distilled water? Please register and then enter your equipment in your profile so we can better help you.

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It could be a coincidence that you have a virus going on at the same time.

I had increased nasal congestion at first on CPAP. Everyone is different, but I get more congested when the humidifier is turned up (others get more congested when it's turned down). I use a nasal rinse daily and take a generic form of Claritin to keep my nasal passages clear.

The thoracic diaphragm discomfort may be trying to breathe against pressure. Ask your doctor about using the EPR or Flex options to reduce pressure needed to exhale.

As for the slight fever and stomach/chest discomfort, ask your doctor about the possiblity of Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD). CPAP really helps my GERD, but others report it causes GERD symptoms or makes them worse. When you have esophageal reflux, the reflux contents can be aspirated into the lungs and that can cause a low grade fever and flu-like symptoms. I had this all too often before CPAP, but for me, CPAP prevents reflux. Others report the opposite. You may need medication for this if the CPAP is exacerbating it.

I hope you figure it out and feel better soon.