Mouth full of air; anatomy and therapy question.

Good morning -

I’m using a ComfortGel mask. On occasion, while on the pump, my mouth will fill with air until my lips open and the pressure is released. I’ve noticed I can also relieve the pressure by wiggling my tongue. Anyone else getting a mouthful of air?

Looking at the ResMed video describing OSA, these symptom would seem to occur if my tongue were to be the cause of the obstruction. But, I haven’t noticed a problem breathing while my mouth is filling. Comments?

Now, why isn’t the machine keeping this from happening? - Mike

Hello Mike,
Let me see if I can help you understand what is happening. As the CPAP machine blows air into your nose and throat to splint open your airway, it is also flowing to your mouth. If you press your tongue against the roof of your mouth you will close off the air flow to your mouth. As you sleep your tongue has a tendancy to relax away from the roof of your mouth unless you "train" it to stay there while you are asleep. Yes it can be done.
I was a mouth breather before CPAP and have now trained my tongue to stay put at night so I can use a Nasal mask instead of a full face mask.

When your mouth fills up with air it is just left over air that did not go into your lungs and splint your throat airway open. Many people who start out using CPAP have this happen and with time will adjust to it so they do not get a mouthful of air at night.

Keep up the great work with your CPAP. It is your friend and will give you so much more clarity of thinking as well as improve your future health.
I wish you the best, and I hope this helps explain what is happening.

Karen

What you are experiencing is a common problem. The air pressure the machine is creating through your nasal airway is "leaking" into your mouth. Have you noticed dry mouth anytime during the night or upon awakening? You may need to switch to a full face mask.

You need to file out your equipment profile (text please, not icons). You will get better advice if people know what equipment you are using.

Welcome to the forum,