I have OSA and use "occasionally" a CPAP machine.  At first the machine irritated my sinuses and I ended up having nasal surgery to allow for better air flow through both sides of my nose.<BR>
The surgery helped the air flow but I still "occasionally" have problems when my sinuses become irritated.  When this happens, I can't use my CPAP for 2-3 days and of course, I don't sleep very well during that time.<BR>
My CPAP has a heated humidifier which I beleive helps some.<BR>
I need some sugestions on what my next step should be.  
I really don't want to go through another surgery but would if it was the last resort. <BR>
Thanks for any help....

Jack wrote:

I have OSA and use "occasionally" a CPAP machine.  At first the machine irritated my sinuses and I ended up having nasal surgery to allow for better air flow through both sides of my nose.<BR>
The surgery helped the air flow but I still "occasionally" have problems when my sinuses become irritated.  When this happens, I can't use my CPAP for 2-3 days and of course, I don't sleep very well during that time.<BR>
My CPAP has a heated humidifier which I beleive helps some.<BR>
I need some sugestions on what my next step should be.  
I really don't want to go through another surgery but would if it was the last resort. <BR>
Thanks for any help....

Hi Jack,

Unfortunately with OSA, using a cpap 'occasionally' is like being 'a little bit pregnant'   , you either are or you are not, and if not you will continue to suffer from the symptoms of OSA.

You need to have your sinuses looked at. I believe (could be wrong) that there are very effective sprays to overcome difficulties in this area.

The heated humidifier is very helpful alright and there are reports that it does help those suffering from sinus/turbinater problems.

You need to become compliant with cpap and this probably means working closely with your sleep doc and/or a good ENT.

Kind regards,

Daniel


_________________
The untreated Sleep Apnoea sufferer died quietly in his sleep.......
Unlike his three passengers who died screaming !!!!!!

(Anon)