What Is CPAP Sore Throat and What Can You Do About It?

Some CPAP users will experience a dry, scratchy throat during and after their nightly therapy. It's fairly common for newer users who are still getting used to their equipment to encounter some CPAP problems. CPAP sore throat isn't just annoying and uncomfortable, it can also mean your CPAP therapy isn't working quite right.

What's more, having a sore throat from CPAP can cause users to struggle to keep up with their therapy or quit altogether. So it's important to address the issue properly to get all the health and wellness benefits that come with treating your sleep apnea properly.

There are a number of things you can do to help reduce or eliminate symptoms of sore throat from your CPAP equipment to ensure you're getting the best results from your therapy. Here's a closer look at what to do about CPAP sore throat.

Try a Different Mask Style

If your CPAP mask doesn't fit right, it can cause a poor air seal around your face, which can create air leaks that dry out your airways and make your throat feel scratchy and sore. Also, an uncomfortable mask may cause you to adjust it frequently through the night or remove it during sleep, further drying out your airways.

One step you can take to fix these issues is to try a different style of mask. If sore throat is a problem for you, consider either a full-face mask or total-face mask, which cover both your mouth and nose to help keep moisture in while creating a comfortable seal.

Although some users may find these types of masks strange or disorienting at first, that's a feeling that will go away after a few nights. You may also be able to alternate mask types to stay comfortable without drying out.

Take a look at our guide to the various types of CPAP masks to find your most comfortable option.

Think About Adding a Chinstrap

Some CPAP users have issues with their mouth falling open while they sleep, which makes their therapy less effective and can cause a dried-out, irritated throat. If that's happening to you, adding a chinstrap can be a very effective fix that only costs $15-$25 while keeping your mouth closed as you sleep to help prevent loss of air pressure and ensure moisture doesn't escape and dry out your throat.

Use a Humidifier with Your CPAP Machine

If you don't have an issue with the way your mask fits or your mouth falling open while you sleep, your most effective way to avoid sore throat with CPAP is to add a humidifier to your machine. It's become such a common part of CPAP equipment that most new machines either have them built right in or include the option to add one that detaches. Many times, only a very small amount of added humidity is needed to ensure you don't dry out overnight.

We suggest consulting with your sleep doctor to understand your best humidification options with your equipment and learn how to set everything up properly to get the most from your CPAP therapy each night.

Try RemZzzs® Soft, Breathable Cotton CPAP Mask Liners

Along with different mask styles, a chinstrap and humidifier, there's another option to help solve your CPAP sore throat issue: RemZzzs® CPAP Mask Liners. They're custom-fitted to almost all of today's most popular mask brands and styles, and they're made from soft, medical-grade cotton that's breathable.

Our mask liners help create a tight seal on your face that's still comfortable for your nightly sleep. Not only does a leak-free seal keep your airways moist and feeling good, it also makes your therapy quieter and more effective while helping reduce any ugly, painful red marks your mask might leave on your face.

If you are interested in seeing for yourself, click learn more below!