Ker---CHOOOOO!!!

I've been using a CPAP for almost 3 years, with a full-face mask, and last night was the first time I sneezed. About the middle of the night I woke up just as I sneezed. Then sneezed 3 more times. I unplugged the mask at the quick-disconnet coupling so I could wipe the mask and blow my nose. While I was so wide awake, I figured it would be a good idea to hit the bathroom as well. Back in bed I plugged in and was soon asleep. I know some of you prefer turning the machine off, then back on when back in bed. I prefer unplugging because it is easier to accomplish and avoids ramping up gain.

Looking at the graphs this morning, it is interesting Respiration Rate was increased for about an hour before the sneeze, averaging maybe 35 and got as high as 55. Before that and afterwards, I was back to mostly between 20 and 22. From Day One I've had the pressures at 18/15 and usually had Respiration Rate all over the place, averaging 45 but often over 60. Due to a recent sleep-over, we change it to 17/13 and the RR almost flat-lined at 20, with just a few excursions. Obviously, I have found the sweet spot!

As to the cause of the sneezes, I have no idea. No new meds, no new bed linens, no new cleaning agents in the room. Coincidentally, I washed the mask and cushion yesterday but used the same detergent and the same amount I always do. I washed it again this morning and will change the filter before I use it again.

At the time, I didn't think so, but looking back at it now, it was rather funny -- and messy. Sure got my attention!

I sneeze a few times around an hour or so after I get up--but only when I wear a nasal pillow mask.
It cleans out my sinuses quite nicely.

Not knowing your allergy history, your medical background or your life story it's hard to tell what's making you sneeze like that. In my own personal case it's usually eucalyptus trees. When I first got to California decades ago had a hard time adapting to the prevalance of the trees all up and down the coast. If I'd get anywhere near them I start to sneeze and cough. After a few years that sensitivity was abated for what I hoped would be forever... however a couple of times a year it still will suddenly come back for a short period of time, usually just days. Who knows why?

I'm not suggesting your problem is eucalyptus trees but what I am saying is that one's body has a way of going thru adaptive cycles and settling down; however that doesn't mean that it won't revert every now and then. You've been on CPAP for three years so you'd think you wouldn't have allergy flashback, that being said, it still might be something you could put on your 'things to consider list'.

What I suggest is riding thru your sneezing episodes for the time being and if you don't improve in a few weeks consult your PCP and/or possibly an allergist. I doubt your CPAP gear or methodology is creating this problem unless it is very dirty (probably not the case since you seem to know the hygiene drill).

I should have made it more clear, I virtually never sneeze. Maybe once every week or three. Sometimes even less frequently.

That one (messy) sneezing episode with the mask on was sort of like having to go really bad . . . then having the zipper jam. Not earth shattering, but certainly disturbing.