[Symptoms] Waking up with dry mouth with nasal pillows

[migui0323]

Hi everyone!

I'm just starting CPAP therapy (been using it for a month now), and I'm constantly waking up with a dry mouth. I downloaded OSCAR to track my data, but I'm still struggling to understand it.

My first thought was that it might be mouth leaks, but the graphs don't seem to suggest that. Could anyone help me decipher this? I'm using a ResMed P10 nasal pillow mask. Also, wondering if maybe the dry winter air is playing a role too?

[CPAPfriend]

Admittedly, that is rather strange given your leak profile. I'm assuming the sample you share represents the average well too, and that you don't experience significant leak during other nights.

[SwampRat]

You are probably mouth breathing, like I do.  I have to use a chin strap to help keep my mouth closed when I sleep.  Lots of styles of straps are available, indicating this is a common problem.

[OpalRose]

My first thought was that it might be mouth leaks, but the graphs don't seem to suggest that.

Look again at your leak rate graph. At the very bottom [zero (0) line].
You can see the leaking (green line). It's certainly not enough to affect your therapy in any way, but since it looks pretty consistent through the night with mostly flat tops (mouth leaks), it can cause arousals and bad sleep. The spiky areas are mask movement.

Even if your mouth/jaw is open a little, and air is flowing through even a little bit, you will have dry mouth.