Increase in AHI after starting SSRI

[cupcakechinchilla]

Hello everyone!

A few weeks ago I started taking an SSRI antidepressant. 
At the time, I had EPR set to 3 Full Time and the pressure was 6-20 (avg=11, 95.5%=14.5). 
On the second or third night, my AHI rose from about 0.5-1.0 each night (it's been this for over 15 years) to an average of about 5.0-6.0 each night since. 
After turning off the EPR, my AHI is now around 1.5-2.0.
Also, and I'm not sure if it's the EPR set to off or the meds or what, but I'm waking up a little light headed each day.

Does anyone know if it is normal to get an increase after starting an SSRI?

Any suggestions for reliving the lightheadedness?

Thanks!

[OpalRose]

It's fairly common for AHI to rise when on certain medications. Usually it's an increase in clear airway events, and since you turned down the EPR, the CA's lessened.

I doubt EPR has anything to do with lightheadedness. It may be a side affect of the meds. Talk to your doctor if it continues.

[cupcakechinchilla]

It's fairly common for AHI to rise when on certain medications.  Usually it's an increase in clear airway events, and since you turned down the EPR, the CA's lessened.

I doubt EPR has anything to do with lightheadedness.  It may be a side affect of the meds.  Talk to your doctor if it continues.

OpalRose,

Thank you for clarifying that it's fairly common. As for the events, it seems that it is an increase of OA. Do you think you can tell me what might be going on based on my graphs? I know I have a large leak issue, does that look like a mask leak or mouth leak to you?

Thanks!

   

   

   

[OpalRose]

It's more than likely mouth leaks/breathing, although there are spikey areas on the graph which signifies mask movement.  

Do you wake with a dry mouth?  Many folk here use mouth tape to help control that.

The first thing to work on is getting the leaking under control.

[cupcakechinchilla]

I do wake up with dry mouth on worst of nights. Is there any particular brand of tape. I searched the forum and didn’t see any specific brand names.

[OpalRose]

I have never had to use tape. If you don't get any responses here, try starting a thread and specifically ask that question.