For awhile when first using my CPAP, I taped my lips (I found while trying to fall asleep I would obsess about not having my mouth open, hence, taking much longer to get to sleep).  Then I thought maybe I could teach myself to keep my mouth shut so stopped for a few nights with no problem.  Last night I woke up about 3 times with an extremely dry mouth.  Now I know what it feels like when I actually take a breath with the CPAP on (it feels like I'm drowning!!) and I didn't feel that but my question is------am I somehow getting air in my mouth to make it so dry like that?  And if so, does this impact how the CPAP is working (meaning I'm not getting the air that I'm supposed to be)??  I'm still new at this - hope this doesn't sound like a dumb question.  I think I may have to go back to the tape.  Any ideas will be appreciated.

what sort of mask are you using?

i have the Mirage Swift Nasal Pillows and have discovered that if I stay sleeping on my back all is well.  If i roll over on my side my mouth falls open and the air vents out of my mouth drying everything out in a hurry.  i have not tried the taping that you mention...i have heard there is a chin strap available but havent tried that either.  what i did do was put a pillow length-wise under one of my arms (for relief from an achy shoulder)...that prevented me from rolling over on my side.

hope that helps,
Bruce


_________________
It's different when you've got a Harley-Davidson...

Bruce - I'm using the Breeze with the mask.  I tried the Swift nasal pillows for awhile but couldn't seem to get rid of leaks - tried both the small and medium.  I find that I have to keep adjusting this mask because of leaks too but it's not as bad as the Swift.  I taped last night and it did seem to help but sometime in the night woke up because the thing was leaking again.  Thanks for your advise - yes it does seem to work better while on my back.