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Do I need to use the humidifier? - Printable Version

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Do I need to use the humidifier? - Phil487 - 06-19-2023

I haven't been using the humidifier since I got my Airsense 10 about 3 weeks ago. I did try it twice, but never really thought there was a benefit, so I just leave it empty. I haven't had any problems, but I did wake up last night we a very very dry mouth, this was the first time. I think I was breathing through my mouth a lot. I use a full face mask. 

Is it a problem if I don't use the humidifier? Is it best to use it, health wise or ???


RE: Do I need to use the humidifier? - Sleepy Quixote - 06-19-2023

Hey Phil487, I don't use the humidifier either, but our RH hovers around 60 for most of the spring, summer and fall. When the RH drops below 40 during the winter, I will be back to running it again. 

Something to keep in mind with CPAP therapy is regular dry mouth in the morning can lead to dental issues, cavities, gingivitis problems, etc. My experience with trying to resolve dry mouth with the humidifier is it has to be cranked up pretty high, causing its own set of problems, its best to resolve the mouth breathing. Since you use a full face a Respironics or Ruby chin strap would probably help a good bit. 

You've only had one morning with dry mouth so its a little early to make any determinations as to what needs to be done, that said keep a close eye on it, if you start having dry mouth more frequently it would be a good idea to address it.


RE: Do I need to use the humidifier? - Phil487 - 06-19-2023

(06-19-2023, 12:38 PM)Sleepy Quixote Wrote: Hey Phil487, I don't use the humidifier either, but our RH hovers around 60 for most of the spring, summer and fall. When the RH drops below 40 during the winter, I will be back to running it again. 

Something to keep in mind with CPAP therapy is regular dry mouth in the morning can lead to dental issues, cavities, gingivitis problems, etc. My experience with trying to resolve dry mouth with the humidifier is it has to be cranked up pretty high, causing its own set of problems, its best to resolve the mouth breathing. Since you use a full face a Respironics or Ruby chin strap would probably help a good bit. 

You've only had one morning with dry mouth so its a little early to make any determinations as to what needs to be done, that said keep a close eye on it, if you start having dry mouth more frequently it would be a good idea to address it.


Thank you, I will keep an eye on it. One reason why I got the full face mask was breathing out of my mouth. I really really enjoy being able to do that at night. I doubt I would be doing CPAP if it wasn't for using a full face mask. 

thanks for the feedback.


RE: Do I need to use the humidifier? - dwd1249 - 06-19-2023

I only use it when in the hospital getting a knee replacement. I find sleeping in the air-conditioning there dried me out.
When I asked my sleep doctor what he thought. He said I may not feel the need where I live, by the coast, but may dry out when inland where the humidity is less.