Can BiPAP therapy cause dry mouth?
I have read that BiPAP therapy is one reason for dry mouth in the mornings. Does anyone know why this should be so? I use a Dreamstation humidifier set at a high level and data shows mask fit at 100%. I’ve been on this machine for about three weeks. Before this I was on Philips Respironics but with the flex function disabled by the sleep tech/sales people when I first bought the machine. I know there are other factors leading to a dry mouth such as mouth breathing but I am curious as to why BiPAP treatment would also be a factor. Any thoughts guys?
RE: Can BiPAP therapy cause dry mouth?
Dry mouth arises mainly from mouth breathing in conjunction with leaks: either you're using a nasal mask and breath (occasionally) through your mouth or you're using an FFM, have mask leaks and breath through your mouth. A humidifier won't be of big help in that situation as its purpose is to moisten the airway not the mouth; the latter is called "drinking".
To avoid cottonmouth just manage to keep your mouth shut either by a chin strap or taping.
Mike
RE: Can BiPAP therapy cause dry mouth?
BiPAP has nothing to do with it. Any PAP therapy will result in dry mouth and other discomfort if there are leaks. DreamMapper is a very generalized source of information. Take a look at your data in
OSCAR, and you will see your 100% mask fit actually involves a lot of leaks. Oscar will show the extent, duration and time of those leaks.
RE: Can BiPAP therapy cause dry mouth?
If your mouth leaks don't otherwise bother you, you could try Xylimelts. They are small discs that stick to your gum or teeth and stimulate saliva production throughout the night.
RE: Can BiPAP therapy cause dry mouth?
Thank you so much everyone and a belated happy new year to you all.
RE: Can BiPAP therapy cause dry mouth?
Even without mouth leaks, I get a very dry mouth. I don't know why. I had trouble with my mouth opening while I slept, and I couldn't find a full face mask that worked for me, and chin straps could keep my mouth closed. That left my mouth dry. Then I tried the technique of taping my mouth closed. It works, but my mouth is still dry in the morning.
