I've been browsing here a bit and found it very helpful.  I have no problem with the mask, just put it on and leave it on.  I've raised the CPAP pressure 3 times and every time has helped, but I'm up to 12, still tired and am reluctant to go higher.  I often wake with a dry mouth.  Does that mean my mouth opens?  If so, what the best option: tape, full face, chin straps or other?.  Thanks.  (Tape seems wierd, but potentially the simplest.)

If you have been raising your pressure yourself, you need to confer with your physician first to truly understand what is going on.

Vicki


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That which does not kill you makes you stronger-Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich must of had apnea.

Vicki wrote:

If you have been raising your pressure yourself, you need to confer with your physician first to truly understand what is going on.

Vicki

Nope.  Doc told me to do it, because I was still tired.  Getting him on the phone, or even an appointment, though is tough.

Ok, well first, that isn't very good care from a sleep doc. and you should make sure he is a diplomate of the ABSM (see my doc. certifications posts under "Interesting Links").

That aside, yes dry mouth is an indication of opening your mouth.  Everything you listed is an option, the choice is completely a personal one and the one which you are most satisfied with.  I use a Full Face mask.  You can start simply (tape, then chin strap) and work your way up in complexity if those options don't work.

Vicki


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That which does not kill you makes you stronger-Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich must of had apnea.

a very dry mouth suggests the mouth being open, a slightly dry mouth can be normal with mouth shut
those with video cameras could consider taping themselves while asleep to see exactly what happens
I think some expensive CPAPs will record the amount of open mouth time

I have found that opening the mouth during sleep with a CPAP does dry out the mouth in a hurry.  

When i can remain sleeping on my back this does not occur...if i roll onto my side that is when my mouth opens.  I do not think that i remain in that position for long, either the sound of rushing air or the dryness itself (something) wakes me and i roll over to get on my back again.  

this doesnt happen to me every night...i have troubles with my shoulder/arm (post rotator cuff surgery) and have started placing a pillow under my arm lenght-wise, this gives additional comfort to my arm and tends to prevent me from rolling over in the night (at least in one direction).  I do not know if a chin strap will help but will inquire about it when i follow-up with my sleep doc next month.

i hope that is some help...


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