CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, is the preferred treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A small mask is applied over the nose, which forces air through the nose, throat and into the lungs allowing the soft tissues in the throat to remain open. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, compliance in using CPAP is low, as roughly 60 percent of all CPAP users stop treatment due to side effects.
Mask Pain
CPAP masks come in a variety of forms, but all types create a tight seal around the nose to avoid air leakage. Some people find that sleep eludes them due to the mask and paraphernalia, while others might accidentally remove the mask during the night due to discomfort. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, 30 percent of patients using a CPAP complained of sores and skin breakdown on their nose due to the face mask seal.
Nasal Problems
Continuous positive airway pressure applied through the nose can create side effects. The air force from the CPAP dries out nasal passages, oral cavities and impairs the first line of respiratory defense. Nasal mucous and discharge is the immune system's defense mechanism against bacteria, collectively trapping the debris and discharging them in nasal drainage. To overcompensate for the lack of moisture, the body will ramp up nasal mucous and a copious discharge, or runny nose and sneezing, may result.
Sinus Headaches
A CPAP machine forces air into the lungs throughout the night. Occasionally, the pressure needed to force this air can create a vacuum in the throat and sinuses, resulting in a headache in the morning. This side effect is exacerbated by allergy problems, congestion or even the runny nose caused by the CPAP machine. This headache is different from the headache often accompanying untreated obstructive sleep apnea, due to a lack of sleep. CPAP sinus pain is located in the sinuses behind the cheeks, as opposed to a generalized head pain.
