Good evening.  I've been a member of the board for a few weeks, but I've sorta/kinda been lurking.  I began using CPAP therapy about a month ago for moderate OSA.  Today, I went for my six week follow-up and I reported a few symptoms to the doctor.  One was peculiar for me.  It seems I am allergic to my mask!  The first one I used was the nasal mask [not the nasal pillow thingie...pardon my terminology] and I would wake up in the morning with welts on the left side of my nose where the mask rested.  I also have some type of skin reaction across my forehead.  I switched to a full face mask just this past Friday due to my mouth falling open as a result of nasal congestion.  Anyway, I don't know if I'm going to have the same type of reaction.  The doctor suggested I begin using Benadryl at night to help with this.  Has anyone else experienced anything like this?  Thanks!

Marie


_________________
One has fear in front of a goat, in back of a mule, and on every side of a fool.
-Jewish Proverb

ardethsaunders wrote:

Good evening.  I've been a member of the board for a few weeks, but I've sorta/kinda been lurking.  I began using CPAP therapy about a month ago for moderate OSA.  Today, I went for my six week follow-up and I reported a few symptoms to the doctor.  One was peculiar for me.  It seems I am allergic to my mask!  The first one I used was the nasal mask [not the nasal pillow thingie...pardon my terminology] and I would wake up in the morning with welts on the left side of my nose where the mask rested.  I also have some type of skin reaction across my forehead.  I switched to a full face mask just this past Friday due to my mouth falling open as a result of nasal congestion.  Anyway, I don't know if I'm going to have the same type of reaction.  The doctor suggested I begin using Benadryl at night to help with this.  Has anyone else experienced anything like this?  Thanks!

Marie

Interesting question.  
I've never experienced this, perhaps someone here has.
Searching the net I see some people do have allergic reactions to masks.  
The American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA) even refers to this in their Resources section of their website at the following link:

Click here for link

The following is from that link, however you might click onto the link and read more about it.

Quote:

If allergic to silicone, try a mask made from materials like synthetic rubber or vinyl. Several masks on the market now are made out of gel-like material. They are intended to mold to each person's face in order to alleviate pressure points and to be more comfortable. However, because some of these masks are larger and heavier than traditional types, some people find them less comfortable. Another mask now has an inflatable cushion that lets the wearer adjust the fit and prevent leaks.

Good luck.  Hey, and welcome!

Linda