[split] Numbness on side of face

[mbpinckert]

I have been using my cpap for just a week and a half. I woke up the past 2 mornings with numbness on the side of my face and brain. Why is this? It seems like hyperventilation. What is causing this? I have had a strap mark on my face.

[OpalRose]

If you have strap marks on your face, then your mask is too tight.

What mask are you using? You can also try a size up in nasal pillow, it may help you breath easier.

[DocWils]

Please describe the numbness - does it go away after you remove the mask and move about a bit, or does it linger? Is there stiffness in your neck or difficulty in moving your head? Is your jaw stiff or sore at the juncture of the jaw and skull just below and in front of your ear? Do you experience a visual disturbance or difficulty in speech for a while? Is there any aural (hearing) disturbance? does it continue?

If the effects are only temporary it is most likely an issue with the mask strap hitting a pressure point, nerve or blood vessel and readjusting the strap position or mask fit may alleviate the problem - if on the other hand the effects are lingering and you are experiencing visual, aural or speech disturbances, or your face "falls" to one side, even if only for a while, then these may be signs of Transient Ischaemic Attacks and you need to see your doctor quickly.

[mbpinckert]

thanks. It seems temporary but I didn't use the cpap last night and felt better, altho I still experienced some numbness and a weird feeling in my chest. I will call my doc Monday. I took long walks today and seemed to feel normal. I have low blood pressure normally and mine is 90/55 now.

[DocWils]

After a night without CPAP, if you need CPAP, I have no doubt your BP is up, and possible a weird feeling in your chest. But yes, please see your doc at once and tell him everything.