CPAP therapy has improved the quality of life for millions of people suffering from sleep apnea. But there is one annoying and sometimes painful side effect that isn’t talked about too often: mask irritation.

Often, CPAP wearers will wake up with the bridge of their nose rubbed raw or develop painful sores that take forever to heal. This is a very common problem, especially for full face and nasal mask users.

With these types of masks, the cushions make direct contact with the bridge of your nose. This makes it easy for irritation to occur.

4 Ways to Get Rid of Nose Sores

Nose sores are a source of frustration for many CPAP users but fortunately, there are solutions. You deserve a restful night of sleep and to be pain-free during the day!

Let’s look at four ways you can get rid of nose sores for good:

You may be surprised to learn that the solution could simply be to add an extra layer between you and your mask. Mask lines like the RemZzzs will fit directly onto your full face mask or nasal mask cushion and serve as a barrier between your skin and the mask.

Many users have had a lot of luck with Gecko nasal pads as well. These are gel pads you place directly on your nose. And mask liners can actually help improve the seal of your mask.

Sores or blisters are a good indication that your CPAP mask is either too loose or too tight. A strong seal is important but an incorrect fit can cause friction and nasal bridge soreness.

Try adjusting your headgear while you’re laying down in bed. This will give you a better sense of what the right fit is. And if you’re using a forehead connector with your mask, try to push the strap farther off your face.

If you’ve tried using mask liners and adjusting the fit to no avail, then it may be your mask that’s the problem. Luckily, it’s easy to switch out your mask for a new one.

After all, there’s no reason to stick with the same mask that isn’t working. If you breathe through your nose at night then it’s probably time to leave your full face mask behind.

A nasal pillow mask, like ResMed’s Airfit P10 or Swift FX, are so lightweight you can barely tell they’re there. And the best part is, they don’t even touch the bridge of your nose.

But if you dislike the feeling of a nasal pillow mask then consider trying Respironics’ DreamWear mask. It’s a nasal mask that won’t touch the bridge of your nose.

But if you breathe through your mouth at night and need a full face mask, there are several options available. Try the all-new generation of full-face masks, like Respironics’ DreamWear full face mask or Amara View Mask with headgear.

These masks fit over your mouth but underneath your nose, leaving the bridge of your nose free! These are especially good for people who enjoy watching TV or reading before bed.

If none of the above options are working for you then you may be having an allergic reaction to your mask. Silicone allergies are rare but they do happen. Cloth masks, like the SleepWeaver, are free of any plastics that may bother you.

Nose sores are annoying but don’t let them get to you too much. There are many ways to get rid of them so you can go back to enjoying your CPAP therapy!