If you are suffering from symptoms of sleep apnea, you are most likely using a CPAP machine while you sleep for sleep apnea treatment. If this is the case, then you are certainly familiar with the dry-mouthed feeling that can occur at night and in the mornings. While CPAP machines are beneficial and often life-saving devices that can provide a lot of comfort to your respiratory system, there are a few side effects that you should know about. One side effect is dry-mouth, which isn’t dangerous, but can certainly be irritating.
As the best sleep doctor in New York, Dr. Mayank Shukla can provide the answers you need to combat dry-mouth throughout the day and night. If you are showing signs of sleep apnea and have recently started learning how to use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea treatment, follow these tips to stay hydrated and healthy all-night long.
What Problems Can Dry-Mouth Cause?
First, it’s important to review what kind of secondary issues can occur as an effect of recurring dry-mouth. If you are experiencing it often, then you may be noticing various nasal and breathing problems.
Some of the common side effects of dry-mouth include:
- Congestion
- Nasal soreness
- Bad breath
- Dry tongue
Dry-mouth most often occurs in sleep apnea patients whose jaws drop open while using the CPAP. If you tend to open your mouth while sleeping, you may be more susceptible to this condition than others. The following tips to remedy the situation have taken that into account.
1. Use a Humidifier
It can be difficult to get motivated to use a humidifier when the weather doesn’t necessarily call for it. But, this is one of the best ways to keep your mouth hydrated and your airways free from the effects of dry-mouth. You can keep the humidifier at room temperature so that it doesn’t get too hot in your bedroom.
Some CPAP devices come with an optional or attachable humidifier. Dr. Shukla recommends that you take advantage of this option if available, especially if you are prone to opening your mouth while you sleep. You may notice the results taking place rather quickly!
2. Drink Plenty of Water
This tip isn’t just exclusive to people with dry-mouth; all patients should be staying hydrated as often as possible. It’s recommended that you drink at least 64 ounces of water every day. If you continuously struggle with dry-mouth, you may need to up the amount you drink by several ounces.
Staying hydrated with water is the best way to stay healthy throughout the day and night. Plus, you are helping your body to cleanse itself of harmful toxins while consistently filling it with clean resources.
3. Quit Unhealthy Habits
If you’re a smoker, your habits can worsen your dry-mouth symptoms. Quitting smoking is a healthy choice for many reasons, but it can drastically improve your respiratory system at night and during the day. When you quit smoking, you can help your lungs and throat to maintain cleaner airways, which may relieve some of the feelings of dryness you feel while using your CPAP.
4. Try Over-the-Counter Remedies
There are a few over-the-counter solutions that may work for you. Certain mouthwashes and mouth sprays are designed to relieve the symptoms of dry-mouth. However, these remedies are typically short-term, and do not solve the underlying issue. It’s recommended that you visit your doctor to figure out what you can do to end the dry-mouth spell once and for all.
Sleep Apnea Treatment in New York
Your CPAP is an essential tool that provides you with a good night’s sleep while giving your lungs a direct airway to breathe with. Although it can cause dry-mouth, that shouldn’t be a reason for you to stop using your CPAP. If you are continuing to struggle with the symptoms of dry-mouth, and it’s starting to affect your sleep schedule and work performance, it’s important that you visit us right away. To get in touch, you can contact us online or give us a call at (917) 765-7469.
