Step one is to speak to an knowledgeable, such because the healthcare supplier who identified you with OSA or the specialist who supplied the CPAP machine, says Dr. Mallampalli.
Knowledgeable will help you determine why you’re experiencing dry mouth and recommend some modifications. They’ll probably begin by assessing the information logged by the CPAP system. Most machines acquire knowledge in your respiration, comparable to air leak, which will help an expert decide if the masks suits correctly and in a means that limits mouth respiration and dry mouth, says Sullivan.
A healthcare supplier may also ask about different signs you’re experiencing to see if there’s one other reason for dry mouth, says Mallampalli. For instance, dry mouth generally is a symptom of diabetes, Parkinson’s illness, Alzheimer’s illness, and different circumstances. Allergic reactions or a deviated septum can even make it difficult to breathe comfortably and totally by means of your nostril, inflicting you to unknowingly open your mouth, says Sullivan.
In some circumstances, chances are you’ll wish to attempt different sleep apnea remedies. Whereas CPAP is taken into account the gold normal, sticking with it may be tough. Analysis reveals that long-term CPAP adherence could also be as little as 30 %. Another, comparable to an oral system, may go higher for you.
Should you determine to proceed CPAP remedy, there are a number of steps you’ll be able to take to scale back the chance of dry mouth:
- Use the humidifier on the CPAP machine. “The heated humidifier and heated tubing could make an infinite distinction for the general sense of dryness,” says Sullivan. Including distilled water to the compartment could also be just a little annoying at first, however it’s higher than having dry mouth.
- Alter the settings. Should you’re already utilizing the humidifier on the CPAP system, attempt adjusting the warmth and humidity settings to see if you will get just a little extra comfy.
- Strive a brand new masks. Should you’re utilizing a nasal masks, your supplier would possibly advocate a masks that covers your mouth as effectively, which can assist restrict a number of the dryness. You would additionally contemplate making an attempt a chin strap that attaches to the CPAP and helps maintain your mouth closed. “However it’s not for everybody,” says Sullivan.
- Keep hydrated. “Lots of people are in a chronically dehydrated state, and also you’re going to note dryness and thirst extra,” says Sullivan. To remain hydrated, sip water recurrently all through the day, she says.
