There is a lot to love about CPAP therapy, but an occasional complaint we hear from new CPAP users is that their machine is too noisy. This noise can make it hard to fall and stay asleep at night.
There are few things more frustrating than being kept awake at night, especially if it’s by your CPAP machine. Oh, the irony — the machine that is supposed to improve your sleep is keeping you up because it’s so loud!
Most CPAP machines on the market today are virtually silent compared to their predecessors, but some people do still say that they have trouble sleeping due to noise. These complaints are fairly common among CPAP users.
5 Solutions for Noisy CPAP Therapy
Fortunately, there are easy solutions to this problem. So if you are desperate to get a little sleep, here are a few things you can try:
Check your air filter
First and foremost, make sure that your filter is clean and unblocked. Dirty air filters often cause the machine’s motor to work harder, which could be contributing to the noise.
Similarly, if the filter is blocked somehow, this could cause a loud noise. Make sure you keep your CPAP away from dusty areas and to replace them every two weeks to a month.
Make sure your mask isn’t leaking
If your mask doesn’t fit properly, it won’t be able to obtain a seal while you’re sleeping. This causes air to leak out the sides of the mask and could be the source of the noise.
If you suspect this is the cause of the problem, you might want to replace your mask cushion or consider looking into a new mask. Everyone has a different face shape so a mask that may work for someone else may not be the best option for you. You can also order mask cushions, frames, or headgears in a different size to improve the overall fit. Mask liners have also improved the seal and fit for many users.
Consider switching to a quieter mask
If your mask fits correctly but the sound of venting air annoys you, you might consider switching to a quieter model. Fortunately, you have plenty to choose from!
The ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask, the ResMed AirFit N10 Nasal Mask, or the ResMed Quattro Air Full Face Mask are all known for being extra quiet.
Many CPAP users have found that using a diffuser can help block some of the sounds. Fisher and Paykel masks provide a washable diffuser to help muffle the sound of air coming from the mask vents. This will provide a more serene sleeping experience for everyone.
Consider accessories that might help
There are a number of add-on accessories which could minimize the noise and improve your overall experience. For instance, using a fan or white noise machine can help drown out the noise of a BiLevel machine.
Or if the noise is being caused by your hose rubbing against the bedpost, you could try using a tube wrap. This adds an extra layer of padding around your tube to ensure that it stays silent.
Contact your supplier
If you have tried all of the above suggestions and nothing seems to be happening, it’s possible there could be a problem with your machine. If you suspect this is the problem, contact your doctor or CPAP supplier right away. They will be able to check the device to make sure it is functioning correctly.
