One of the most commonly reported issues, dry mouth typically results from mouth breathing — often a sign of air escaping past the lips due to a poor mask seal or insufficient humidification.

• Increase humidifier output gradually (one level per night)
• Inspect mask for leaks around the chin and jaw
• Consider upgrading to a well-fitted full-face mask
• Replace worn or flat cushions promptly

Cold, dry air entering the nasal passages can trigger swelling and congestion — particularly at higher prescribed pressures. Heated humidification is the most effective fix.

• Enable or increase heated humidification
• Clean your tubing weekly to prevent blockages
• Replace your air filter on schedule — typically every 30 days

A runny nose during or after CPAP use is often caused by rhinitis triggered by airflow. It is particularly common when bedroom temperatures fluctuate overnight.

• Raise humidity settings by 1–2 levels
• Keep your bedroom at a stable, comfortable temperature
• Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 4 weeks

Redness, soreness, or rashes where the mask contacts skin usually indicate the headgear is too tight, the cushion material has degraded, or oil and bacteria have built up on the cushion surface.

• Loosen headgear by one adjustment click
• Clean the cushion with mild soap every morning
• Replace the cushion if it shows any cracking or flattening

Leaks reduce therapy pressure reaching your airway and can cause dry eyes, noise, and partner disturbance. A silicone cushion that has lost its shape is the most common culprit.

• Re-fit the mask while lying in your sleep position
• Replace stretched or distorted headgear straps
• Swap out worn cushions — replace every 1–3 months

Pressurised air escaping from the top of a full-face mask or nasal mask and directing toward the eyes is a key sign that your mask seal has failed. This is almost always a cushion or positioning issue.

• Adjust mask positioning up or down the nose bridge
• Replace the cushion if the seal feels inconsistent
• Tighten upper headgear straps slightly, then re-test

Feeling trapped or anxious with the mask on is very common for new users. Gradual desensitisation — not forcing full therapy from night one — is the most effective approach.

• Wear the mask while relaxed and awake (watching TV, reading)
• Use slow, deep breathing exercises before attempting sleep
• Consider a nasal pillow mask if a full-face design feels too enclosing

The sensation of air pressure can feel unnatural at first, especially at higher prescribed settings. The ramp feature on modern CPAP machines is specifically designed to ease this.

• Activate the ramp feature — pressure starts low and rises slowly
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to reinforce your sleep drive
• Ask your clinician to review your ramp start pressure if needed

Swallowing pressurised air during sleep leads to bloating, belching, and discomfort. It's more common at higher pressure levels and when sleeping on your back.

• Ask your sleep clinician to review your prescribed pressure
• Sleep on your side to reduce the likelihood of air swallowing
• AutoCPAP machines may help — they reduce pressure when possible

Morning headaches on CPAP can result from an inconsistent mask seal reducing therapy effectiveness, or from sinus pressure caused by dry or cool airflow. They should resolve once the underlying cause is addressed.

• Check your mask seal — look for leak events in your device data
• Ensure airflow is warm and humidified throughout the night
• Raise humidifier settings if nasal passages feel congested on waking

A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears is often related to Eustachian tube function — air pressure affects the middle ear indirectly, particularly if nasal congestion is present.

• Address nasal congestion first — it often resolves ear symptoms
• Ask your clinician about reviewing your pressure settings
• Seek medical advice if ear pressure is persistent or painful

Mild tightness or a sense of effort when breathing out against CPAP pressure is common during the adjustment phase. The respiratory muscles adapt over the course of 2–3 weeks for most users.

• Allow your body adequate time to adapt — usually 3–4 weeks
• If symptoms are severe or persistent, contact your sleep clinic
• BiPAP therapy may be recommended if CPAP pressure feels uncomfortable

Unusual noise from a CPAP setup — hissing, rattling, or gurgling — almost always has a mechanical cause. A thorough inspection of tubing and connections resolves the majority of cases.

• Check all tubing connections for cracks or loose fittings
• Inspect the tubing for any holes or splits along its length
• Replace damaged tubing or accessories — standard hoses are inexpensive

Red indentation lines on the face after removing your mask are one of the most visible signs that headgear tension is too high or the cushion material is too rigid for your face shape.

• Adjust headgear to the lightest tension that still prevents leaks
• Try soft strap covers or padding to reduce pressure points
• Consider memory foam or gel cushions for sensitive skin

If your sleep quality has declined, your AHI data has worsened, or you're waking feeling unrefreshed despite consistent CPAP use, worn accessories are often the first thing to check. Degraded cushions, cracked tubing, and blocked filters all reduce the pressure and air quality actually delivered to your airway — even when the machine appears to be working normally.

• Inspect your cushion for flattening, cracking, or discolouration — replace if in doubt
• Replace your tubing if it has any kinks, cracks, or cloudy interior deposits
• Change disposable air filters monthly; wash reusable filters weekly
• Clean your humidifier chamber weekly and replace every 6–12 months
• Book a review with your sleep clinician if your AHI remains elevated after equipment checks