Do You Still Snore with CPAP? Here’s What You Can Do

Prior to being diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, you likely woke up during the night gasping for air, woke yourself up snoring, or were “kindly” told by a partner that you sounded like a lumberjack when you slept. 

Now that you’ve completed tour sleep study and you’re treating your Sleep Apnea with your CPAP machine, you definitely expected to stop snoring, right? While snoring with CPAP is not the norm, there are a few things you can do to find the cause of the issue.

How to Stop Snoring with CPAP

There could be a few reasons as to why you’re still snoring with a CPAP machine, but below are a few things you can do to help remedy this issue.

• Audit your equipment and make sure you have it set up as the manufacturer explains
• Contact cpapRX to make sure you have the right equipment and is performing correctly
• Find the source of your snoring by answering a few questions and viewing our guide below

cpapRX Guide – Why am I still snoring while using a CPAP machine?

If you’re still snoring even with your Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, that doesn’t mean you’re facing some major problem. It also doesn’t mean you’ve been misdiagnosed or that your CPAP machine is defective. And it certainly doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. 

In most situations, the reason you’re snoring with CPAP may be rooted in something very small. Ask yourself the following questions if you’re still snoring while on CPAP therapy. 

Am I new to CPAP?

If you’re new to using CPAP equipment while you sleep, it could be that something minor is “off” or needs adjusting before you experience the full benefits of your machine. 

• You may need to try a full-face CPAP mask.
• The pressure might not be strong enough to help.
• You may need smaller or larger straps to ensure the mask fit is snug.
• You may need a chin strap to keep your mouth closed while you sleep.
• You may need to consider sleeping on your side rather than your back or stomach.

These small tweaks may be enough to stop your snoring and help you get a good night’s sleep. Like anything else, it can take a bit of time and effort to get the exact right CPAP therapy settings and supplies for you. Don’t give up too soon!

Are my CPAP supplies starting to age?

Nothing lasts forever.

The longer you’ve been using your CPAP, the more likely things may start to break down.

• Mask cushions may become worn and in need of being replaced.
• Tubing is loose or no longer sealed well, causing air leaks. 
• Pressure may no longer be consistent. 

If your CPAP supplies are aging, this could be why you have started snoring with CPAP again even while using it as directed. You may need to replace some components or upgrade to a new CPAP machine entirely. Learn when to replace key CPAP components for the highest quality therapy. 

Am I a mouth-breather?

No shade, but facts are facts. While sleeping, if you tend to mouth-breathe, there are certain CPAP masks that just won’t cut the mustard. Ditch the nasal mask (or nasal pillows) and try either a chin strap to keep your mouth shut while asleep, or a full-face mask to ensure all that good oxygen makes it into your lungs. 

Is my CPAP mask leaking?

If your CPAP mask has gaps around the seal, air could be leaking out and not making its way to your airways like it should. Meet with your provider to find a better fit, or Live Chat with us on the website so we can help find the perfect mask for you, your sleep style, and your face shape. 

Does my CPAP machine have enough pressure? 

One common issue patients come to us with is a need for increased CPAP Pressure. Unfortunately, you can’t adjust this yourself as it is a part of your CPAP Prescription. You’ll need to speak with whomever issued your prescription to get a proper adjustment. And as above, our Board Certified Sleep Specialists can assist you with this, a CPAP Prescription renewal, or a first-time CPAP Rx. 

Does my mask suit my sleep position(s)? 

From nasal, to full-face, to baseball cap style — there is absolutely a CPAP mask that will suit your preferred sleep style (unless you’re a vampire, maybe). Check out our handy dandy infographic to determine the best CPAP mask for your sleeping position. Or, you know, hit us up on the Live Chat from the bottom right corner of the site!

How Can I Tell I’m Snoring When I Sleep Alone?

If you sleep alone, you may not know that you’re still snoring at night. However, there are other clues that your CPAP machine isn’t doing its job. According to Very Well Health, the most common complaint would be the return of excessive daytime sleepiness, often manifest by prolonged or frequent daytime naps. 

If your sleep hasn’t become more restful and you are still struggling with extreme fatigue during the day, that could be a sign that your CPAP machine isn’t operating at full capacity.

If this is the case, be sure to reach out and connect with your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns. 

We Can Help

Have any more questions about snoring with CPAP? Struggling to get the rest you have been needing? Call us at 833-216-CPAP, email us at sleeptight@cpaprx.com and we will get you those ZZZs