excess saliva and phlegm when using cpap

[Pinky2904]

I have been using my cpap for about 2 and a half months and am having several problems. I can't sleep because I'm constantly waking to readjust my mask because air is leaking. Also, my mouth fills with saliva and I keep getting clear phlegm I'm my throat. I asked the Dr about this latter complaint and she said she had never had anyone with this complaint before....she recommended I use Flonase before bed and I have done this but it hasn't helped. On the leakage problem, I've tried 2 different masks. and it's about the same with both. I started out with Respironics Dream wear nasal mask and now am using Brivida Nasal Pillow Mask. I am as tired and fatigued now as I was before I started cpap treatment......and kind of getting desperate. I really don't feel like I've gotten enough support from either the Dr or the Medical device supply company. This has been much more of a traumatic event than I had even anticipated.....I should have been much more well prepared on what to expect and what to do etc.......any suggestions?

[chunkyfrog]

It is probably stuff you had all along, only now you notice it.
Saline nasal rinses might help.

[kteague]

Are you using the humidifier? When I had mine turned up it caused a lot of sinus drainage. We do read of some who have a reaction to the the treatment/equipment called CPAP rhinitis, but that wouldn't be my first thought. It's probably not the best idea, but I take an allergy pill before bedtime just to keep down the nasal congestion and drainage. Have you checked to see if there's a video for a fitting guide for your mask? In general, Most masks I've tried benefitted from an extra strap to help stabilize it, sometimes just a scarf or stretchy headband. Warning though, some masks make it harder to add anything because you have to make absolutely certain it cannot slip and cover the vent holes. As far as your sleeping pillow, I have found that flat very firm pillows are better for keeping the face from sinking into the pillow and dislodging the mask. Also, side sleeping with the mask hanging off the edge of the pillow might work.