Coughing and phlegm from CPAP machine?

by Brenda
(Pickering On Canada)

I have been using the machine for about a month now and I am finding that I have a constant cough and phlegm.

Is it possible that this is a side effect?

Answer


Dear Brenda,

this problem is common in sleep apnea patients using CPAP therapy. Your nasal passages must get used to this pressured air hitting it.

You didn't say if you have a CPAP humidifier. The warm humid air may relieve the congestion - and this is also the main purpose of the humidifier.

However, some people use the humidifier at maximum level, and they start to feel the congestion and phlegm. So it's good to test the level of the humidifier every night until you will feel better.

If the humidifier is not the problem, it might be a chronic sinus infection, so you should discuss with your doctor.

Do you also have COPD, asthma or GERD...or developing it? These disorders can cause your problems. Check with a pulmonary doctor.

You should stop using the CPAP machine for a night or two until you get the congestion sorted. Contact your sleep doctor and get some medication to clear it up.

Beyond the fact that you probably don't have adequate humidification, you may be experiencing mouth leaks. You didn't say which type of mask you have...full face mask, nasal mask, or nasal pillows?

If you have mouth leaks, you should use a cpap chin strap. You will feel the difference.

Some more interesting pages for you to check out:


I hope it helps. Don't be afraid to comment back.

Remy Thierry
Founder of Sleep Apnea Guide

Comments for Coughing and phlegm from CPAP machine?

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Jun 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		cpap problems
by: Anonymous

i was recently diagnosed with mild copd and sleep apnea and started using cpap with humidifier set at 2....every time i use machine from 1 to 3 nights, i start with mucus in my throat that spreads down to my lungs and cough and cough and cough every time i lay down.

this has happened now 3 times and i've been on the machine for only a week. have to stop using machine for 2 or 3 days each time and doc has me on amoxicillin. but as long as i'm using machine, it doesn't help.

the only thing that has helped so far is to stop using cpap. then i wait a day and start using it again....but problem comes back.
Mar 21, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sinus problems
by: Jan

I have been using my S9 Cpap machine for 5 months. I have always had problems with my sinuses. At one time I had sinus surgery.

Since I have started Cpap my sinuses have gotten worse. I am tired all the time. I am plugged up & coughing constantly. My chest hurts.

I just had a doctors appt & he did a chest X-ray. He said there was no pneumonia. Possible sinus infection & allergies.

He told me to take Claritin before going to bed. He also put me on an antibiotic. This was last week.

I do not feel any better. I have a 1/2 hour ramp time & setting is 10. I have experimented with different humidity levels & nothing seems to work.

I am about ready to quit Cpap. Help
Jul 24, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Phlegm problems as well!
by: J

I began w/BIPAP therapy about two months back. My machine is called Resmed. At first, the humidity setting was (5), and at first, it did not cause me problems.

After about a month w/every day use, I began experiencing the almost constant need to clear my throat. This would begin about a half-hour after waking, and continue throughout most of the day. By around supper time, I was usually past the problem, but it's occurred almost every day for over a month now.

I've backed-down the humidity setting on my Resmed machine to a (1), and I'm still experiencing issues with Phlegm. My nose is not conjested,......I just have to "clear my throat" about five hundred times every day! This isn't normal, is it? What should I do? Thanks.
Sep 05, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Congestion and Cough
by: JH

I started using a Panasonic System One w/heated humidifier last October (2015). A gradual cough and stuffy nose started developing soon after. I now have an almost constant cough w/phlegm (sometimes choking)and runny nose. I even bought a $300 So Clean machine to 'kill' the germs, even though I cleaned the c-pap and replaced filters and hoses and nose pillows on a regular basis.

It is VERY frustrating, to say the least! I am considering stopping the c-pap therapy soon, as I had no sinus or coughing issues before I started using this.

I went to a pulmonologist for a lung workup. Lung x-rays were clear. Passed breathing tests. He had never heard of 'c-pap cough', which I find hard to believe. I can't be the only one suffering from this.
Sep 14, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cough and phlegm all day!
by: Cindiann

I have a resmed cpap, have tried all different humidity levels and I wake up with a phlegmly throat and slimy mouth every morning anymore, I feel as if I have phlegm in my bronchial tubes and throat constantly anymore, I have been to the doctors over and over with this and they say they have no clue as why I am experiencing this.

I have had a endoscopy done, I don't have reflux but they put me on protonix anyway, this hasn't helped, Lung X-rays are clear, I don't have COPD so what is this?? I am miserable clearing my throat and coughing all day and so hoarse from it. Anyone have any suggestions??
Sep 23, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Aweful after use of Cpap machine
by: Anonymous

I developed a 2 hour coughing spasm after use of Cpap machine. Still have cough even after I stopped using Cpap. Never had such a cough before. I wonder if I am allergic to the plastic mask, tubing etc.
Sep 28, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Phlegm Follow-up
by: John

A follow-up to an earlier posting (see "J") concerning issues with having to constantly be clearing my throat every day following BIPAP therapy.

I noticed that when I decreased the humidity setting down to as low as "off", and then a (1), my phlegm issues were the worst! After doing a lot of reading as to what others were experiencing, etc., I changed my humidity setting to a (4), and I can honestly say that it helped reduce my Phlegm issues to a very "manageable level. I may very well try a "5" setting a a month or two, and see how my body reacts to that.

I am trying to not be making constant setting changes, so that I can more carefully judge what my body is telling me, and this has helped. Apparently, even though it sounds counter-intuitive, and at least in my case, a middle-of-the-road humidity setting is working. At first, I didn't believe this would work, but I was wrong.

I still have some phlegm issues, but they are mild, and don't interfere with my daily activities.
Oct 05, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Helpless
by: Anonymous

I have been using crap for 4 1/2 years and experience morning chocking mucus. I went to fam doctor and was told it wasn't a problem as long as it cleared up as the day went on. Went to my sleep doctor and she had no clue.

I have also tried the humidity setting on every level and nothing helps. Can't quit using it because I already have heart issues. Please help.
Nov 29, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same here
by: Anonymous

Each morning when I remove my cpap mask (nasal only) I have thick bitter throat mucus to cough up. It sounds worse than it is to remove but it's the kind that is stringy, with an elastic-like way about it that will extend down the back of my tongue and sometimes make me choke or gag.

I can actually "reel it forward" by sticking out my tongue and scraping it along my top teeth, until I can spit it out. Once I cough it all up and blow my nose, I'm good for the day. I do not have this issue without cpap.
Jan 16, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		contact info
by: Anonymous

Dr. Robert S Rosenberg ...Prescott Valley z is supposed to be one of the TOP persons in the field .....Written many books ....Should have some general answers.......Give him a call but better yet send an EMAIL
Jan 16, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstar 		More Followup.....
by: John

Have been using my Resmed machine for about six months now, and am fairly happy with overall results! I've settled in on a humidity setting of "4", and I've found it beneficial for me to clean the water reservoir every morning, and allowing it to completely dry before the next use. Also, I only pour in just enough distilled water to allow me to get thru the night. My body has become fairly compliant to the positive pressure of Bipap, although I still do not enjoy pressure necessary to exhale. I still do a little throat clearing almost every morning, but it's usually done by mid-morning.

I have developed a stuffed-up right ear, and a specialist "installed" an ear tube to try to get me cleared out. Anyone else had any ear problems like this?

John



Mar 02, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Please help
by: Al

Hi i need urgent help bern using cpap machine nearly 2 months. For over a month iv had sever hacking cough and producing phleghm my body aches im currently waiting for results of lung xrays. It starts as soon as i get up and carrys on all day. Must have to clear my throat 500 times a day its making me so miserable can someone please tell me theyve experienced it as i cant take more of it
May 01, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		CPAP and Phlegm
by: Peter S

Feel very sorry for the contributors above who have experienced phlegm problems with CPAP. IVe used Resmed machine for 15 years and had no such problem until 2016 when thick but clear ghastly mucus / phlegm was forming and waking me at night. It's slimy and thick and difficult to clear , (I know this is sickening to read but no other way to say it!). I do not use a humidifier, my machine is older still works fine. What I have found however is that the issue is due to mouth leakage, as I use a nose mask only, the Mirage FW (wide size). This is a convenient little mask but I fear it is the cause of the mucus. The temporary cure is a Resmed chin strap, but in combination with the mask itself one looks and feels like a medical experiment gone wrong. My suspicion is that a full face mask, that is a mask which covers the mouth AND nose will solve all your problems.

I know that abandoning CPAP is tempting and in many ways I've hated it, but given the alternative of having a stroke or being chronically tired I have to say it's worth persisting with.

But as a long time user my advice is to try a chin strap (they are cheap) but look to purchasing a full face mask as a real solution. By the way, I don't have a CPAP humidifier although I wish I could afford one, so I don't think that device is the culprit. I do think mouth leakage / mouth breathing is. Thank you, Peter.
May 01, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Problem Solved!
by: Anonymous

For me, it was a setting on my ResMed machine. I had to take my machine in due to a bad power button. When the tech configured my loaner machine, she enabled Pressure Relief! With this enabled, I no longer wake up with throat crud. I got my machine back, enabled it on my machine and just as good as the loaner. Hope this helps others. Good luck.
May 10, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Solution
by: TooFarNorth

I, too, have had a bad time with mucous and nasal congestion every morning causing me to have the same problem as those who commented above.
In addition, I would have to blow my nose over and over again after getting out of bed.

Finally I decided that it could be the humidity in my CPAP machine so last night I set it to NONE and I woke this am with no nasal congestion, no nose blowing and a miniscule amount of mucous.

It was like waking up to a new life, no allergy symptoms. Wonderful, worked for me, not sure if it will work for u.
May 10, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		The mucus thing ...
by: Peter S

Hi fellow CPAP sufferers ... as per my post on May 1st above. I bought the new full face mask (F20 I think it is) and problem solved. No throat gunk. Just a good sleep.

CheersOS
Sep 25, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So Clean cause nightmares?
by: Anonymous

Has anyone been experiencing problems with the So Clean device used to sanitize CPAP equipment? Besides the strong ozone smell, I have been having nightmares, spasms, foggy thinking, congestion with coughing up mucous & feeling so tired when get up..no energy.

Before using the So Clean system, I felt better..I did have congestion & coughing but contributed it ingesting the water from the moisturizing container in the Cpap system? Any suggestions would be suggested.

I spent $299 for So Clean device & the 30 day return has expired & So Clean CO. won't allow me to return it because past 30 days. I have used it about 3 months & didn't realize it was what was causing problems until went on line & found where it could cause nightmares.

Was so stunned that it was causing my nightmares, but explained why was having them over & over. I had loved the convience of its easy cleaning, but not the consequence of it & the problems is causing.

I quit using it & nice not to have nightmares! Anyone else experience any of these problems?
Sep 28, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Use of bipap, increased secretions , told by RT it is temporary
by: DV

My mother has severe COPD and started using a bipap machine 3 months ago. This resulted in increased secretions and cough and increased gastric reflux. The RT adjusted the settings on the machine and it helped with the gastric reflux.

The RT told my mother that the increased secretions (and accompanying cough) are common, are due to the fact that the machine is opening up airways not used to be open and more importantly, are temporary (will last 3-4 months).

Has anyone been told something similar?
Oct 20, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		RESPONSE TO Jun 24, 2011
by: Anonymous

This is in response to the June 24 poster regarding mask leaks. I have been using CPAP for 10 years and the last several weeks I've been waking with phlegm in lungs and throat.

Would taste bad and take half a day to clear. Constant coughing would cause more inflammation and create a vicious cycle!

After reading the above post, I noticed my mask was loose and that it had probably been leaking during the night.

I tightened the strap (full face mask) and the next morning was like a miracle...NO PHLEGM for the first time in several weeks...unbelievable...thanks so much for posting your experience...you have saved me much worry and misery!
Nov 15, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cpap vs bipap
by: Lynn

I am so confused. I have been using cpap for 5 years n never had a problem until recently. I assumed it was caused by treatment for lung cancer. I am about to undergo another sleep study for bipap From your comments it sounds like I will get worst

To address those people who are coughing constantly please ask for Ct scan of lungs
May 10, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Phlegm
by: Corinne

I came across this site because I was in search of people who have the same issues as I have horrible phlegm in my throat and it scares me, trying to get a doctor to listen was a nightmare.

I'm on inhalers was on prednisone, antibiotic now acid reflux med, my gut feeling it is the CPAP instigated everything, I was taken off the CPAP for a bit, nothing has changed yet, hoping soon it Will go away soon, I will find other options for my apnea. It's mild so I'm praying
Jul 23, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Coughing now too.
by: Anonymous

I have had my Cpap 2 machine now for a month and I'm now getting a cough with mucus build up in back of my throat. What is the use of having this machine if so many people are having trouble? This sucks.

Sleep apnea is a dangerous condition to have. We need these machines to work right so we all can be tested and not fall asleep in public or other places that could be dangerous.
Sep 19, 2018
Rating
starstar 		Help for my Mother
by: Nicole

My Mother has been using the CPAP machine for over 10 years. Serious, serious cough and phlegm. I see all the comments on the page but no answers...heartbreaking. Looks as if a lot of people are suffering with no answers. Have any of you found Good doctors...please?
Sep 24, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cough and Phlegm
by: Bob

New Resmed air sense 10 user. I have only used it 4 days but for two days I have had phlegm in throat that results in a deep cough to clear Plegm.

My machine has the humidifier set on auto and I use a full face mask. Seem to sleep well but the phelgm and cough concern me. I do not want to stop usage as I am a heart patients and need CPAP.

It looks like a lot of others are experiencing the same things with no answers. Wish there was someone to consult over this issue
Sep 30, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		River of Slime
by: Ginny Saltzman

I am taking a break from the CPAP!! I have suffered from this constant nasal / sinus / throat congestion / coughing, and generally feeling yucky for 5 months.

Yesterday I typed in--"Can a CPAP machine cause excessive post nasal mucous and throat congestion?" LO and BEHOLD I found this site where lots of people reported that the exact same thing that I have had also happened to them when they used the CPAP.

I have been to my different doctors for the last 5 months and asked them several times if this CPAP could be making me have all of this mucous. Plus I contacted the lady at the Sleep Apnea clinic and the people at Pro Health where I got the CPAP machine. They all said NO!

Two doctors gave me a steroid shot in March and June, the ENT gave me Flonase, allergy tests, antihistamines, Sinus CAT scan, nasal scope, and recently another nasal spray, all of my doctors called it Allergic Rhinitis, until the allergy tests, then changed my diagnosis to Non-Allergic Rhinitis and told me to quit using antihistamines.. And I have steadily gotten worse.

So I quit using the CPAP last night I hope and pray that the river of slime will stop soon.
Mar 18, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Choking Every Morning
by: TJWeeks

I have used my CPAP for 8 years now. I have never had the "great night sleep" everybody told me I would but I have stopped waking up gasping for air.

I don't know what is causing it but recently I have been waking up every morning and within about 10 minutes I will be hacking my lungs out. After this started I became very meticulous about cleaning the unit about every week. That did not stop it. I just feel miserable every morning after spending an entire night trying to find a comfortable way to lay and then I wake up and here comes the gagging-it's the kind of coughing my mother used to call the croup.

To make things even better, two weeks ago I tore my rotator cuff in my right shoulder.

I'm 67 years old and I feel like this is a crappy way to live what's left.
Jun 06, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sticky Phlegm from CPAP machine
by: Greg

I've been on CPAP for close to ten years now. I use a full face mask and a humidifier. 18 inches of mercury is my CPAP pressure setting. I use distilled water to fill the humidifier tank.

I use to clean the mask after every use with water and then wash the humidifier every week with baby shampoo and hot water and then let it dry completely before using it again. I got a bit lazy and started trying to save on distilled water. If I had some water left in the humidifier instead of throwing it out I'd just add more distilled water to top it off. I developed a tickle in my airway and could not cough up the sticky phlegm. Also started getting chapped lips.

So I started soaking the humidifier chamber, mask and hose in 50:50 vinegar and water solution. The vinegar kills the bacteria and fungus that can live and grow in the warm dark humidifier chamber, hose and mask. I use distilled white vinegar soal and then wash with antibacterial dish detergent and hot water and then let it air dry before using again, I get a new hose and mask ever so often too.

The SoClean using Ozone and it can destroy the plastic parts of the CPAP machine if the concentration of ozone is too high for too long. Repeated exposure to ozone is harmful to some plastics. It will kill germs too. After using the SoClean let the air inside the CPAP blow out and clear the ozone out of the hose and chamber. You can smell the ozone. You don't want to breathe ozone. The SoClean probably uses a UV light inside the machine to produce the ozone gas. I'm an X-EPA air pollution control manager and was in charge of monitoring the ozone in the air. I went to the USEPA school for air monitoring. I'm also an EMT. I studied Pre-Veterinary Medicine as well so I have a strong background in science, biology, and chemistry.

I'm surprised that so many people are reporting that their doctors don't know what is wrong! Keep the humidifier, hose and mask clean or you will be forcing bacteria into your lungs. It's pretty simple.
Dec 15, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same hacking and phlegm as everyone else
by: Anonymous

Started my CPAP 2-3 weeks ago and what do you know, now I'm coughing up phlegm and gagging throughout the day. After reading all these comments, I feel a bit frustrated. I have the humidifier built in and a good mask seal and good fit. Don't open my mouth while sleeping and the humidity level is set to 4. The constant clearing of my throat is driving me crazy and coughing is hurting my throat. I know it's worth it to keep up my therapy but does this ever stop?
Jan 22, 2020
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starstarstarstarstar 		lips pasted shut in the morning
by: Anonymous

in the morning my lips are pasted shut and I have a lot of white phlegm in my mouth, plus all day long I can cough phlegm up. I know this is caused by the CPAP machine. Can't someone tell me what to do to get rid of it.
Feb 27, 2020
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		What else can we use...
by: Anonymous

Same as everyone else.
Resmed CPAP compressor and constant coughing of clear phlegm about every three months.
Tried everything changed settings recommended by the local sleep clinic - tried with distilled water - tried without humidifier - tried different full face and/or nasal masks.
It goes away and then comes back with a vengeance.
Really scary because keep feeling it could progress into pneumonia.
Just have to sleep in spare bed - with no machine so my wife can get some sleep.
Have decided CPAP is not the panacea that originally thought it was....
Apr 20, 2020
Rating
starstarstar 		NO SYMTOMS when I switch back to old machine
by: Pamela J

Three weeks ago I got the new Resmed 10 machine. I have used 3 different cpap machines in 15 years and NEVER had any symptoms before. Upon using this new Resmed machine I woke with the symptoms of a horrible cold with lots of phlegm bubbles in throat, eyes watering, nose running, constant sneezing, stuffed up nose, cough and this goes on the entire day.

I am miserable and can barely function. I tried everything people here have mentioned from cleaning the machine & all parts, to different humidity levels, to no humidity. Nobody mentioned this yet, but TWICE now I have switched back to my old machine for two days in a row, using the same tubing & nose pillows I used with resmed and wake up with NONE of these symptoms. They're just GONE like the old days.

Went back to new machine and woke up miserable again. I did this experiment once, then a week later, did it again. Both times with old machines my symptoms disappeared.

I hadn't even cleaned the old machine for a while. I used the same nose pillows, tubing, etc with both machines to be sure that can't be the cause. THIS PROVES IT HAS TO BE THE NEW MACHINE CAUSING THIS AND I MAY TAKE MINE BACK.

Im calling my doctor and my sleep company today. They're not going to put me on meds or anything else for these symptoms when I know the cause is the machine.
Apr 21, 2020
Rating
starstarstarstar 		NO SYMPTOMS when I switched back to old cpap machine part 2
by: Pamela J

I failed to mention that my new machine is a Resmed Air Sense 10 and my old machine where I never had phlegm at all is a Respironics.

I think we should mention the brand of our machines because I'm seeing Resmed mentioned a lot in these posts. Since I have ruled out all the things that doctors think could be causing this, as well as tried all the things mentioned in these posts, I'm beginning to wonder if there is something causing this that is built into certain machines such as a particular type of plastic, rubber, or even the glue or whatever is used to hold the casing of the machine together.

When I've NEVER had these congestion problems before with three other machines, I have to believe it is the machine itself. I've called my Dr., the company that provided my machine and Resmed (who blew me off.) My provider and I have checked the settings to compare my Resmed with my old machines and can't find a difference.

I will continue working at this to find an answer because what will I do when my old machine ever stops working? Currently, it's keeping me sane!
Aug 17, 2020
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		congestion resmed 10 airsense
by: Anonymous

i have the issues started with nasal congestion adjusted temp and humidity nasal is more clear than before and now chest congestion . cough all the time last night slept without no cough or phlegm. ive been using this for years and struggling for at least 6 months thinking of stopping cpap. it isn't therapy if it makes you feel worse
Nov 22, 2020
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		7 year cough NEW
by: Brenda from Colorado

My cough for the last seven years has been so bad that I literally throw up and sometimes cough for up to 3 hours at a time. the coughing is so severe, I've had to start wearing depends to keep from paying my pants. It is debilitating and it is always in the middle of the night or in the morning. I have seen every doctor under the sun and spent thousands of dollars trying to figure out what was causing me to cough and now I'm starting to realize it was probably the CPAP. I have changed my diet, eliminating wheat, dairy, soda, and have taken antihistamines and Mucinex and decongestants. I once had a study with a tube down my throat for 24 hours to see if I was experiencing gerd, which I wasn't. In the past, I experienced sleep apnea episodes every minute. I can't afford to not use a CPAP machine. I'm 59 and I don't want to have a stroke because of apnea. I've tried chin straps, putting blue medical tape across my lips to keep my mouth closed, since I use a nasal mask, I have adjusted the humidity level on my machine, and I tested negative to allergies. Still, the mucus is so thick in the morning that I feel like I am literally being waterboarded. I'm really worried about the damage I've done to my bronchial tubes and or lungs over the last seven years because I have been unable to get a proper medical diagnosis/assistance with this problem. So where do I go from here? It's pretty sad when even the medical community who should be well versed in these issues has no clue.
Nov 22, 2020
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Silent reflux creates phlegm. Bipap pushes it into sinus cavities. NEW
by: Anonymous

Months of doctors and antibiotics did not find problem. Finally talked to a couple nurses who identified the problem. Trying to get reflux under control - acid now neutralized but still have non-acid reflux. Medicine doesn’t offer much. Google non-acidic reflux to get ideas that might help.
Jan 10, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 + years chronic cough and phlegm. NEW
by: akaMike

I get a restful nights sleep with my ResMed airsense 10 cpap if I can stop coughing long enough to actually get to sleep. I've had 2 Res Med devices and played with them enough to know they work well in remediating apnea but I cough and hack all day. I had a difficult time adjusting to the first cpap machine and researched the effectiveness of the good quality (expensive) mandibular devices. I settled on a Herbst device and while it took another learning curve, I was able to work through it and viola, no coughing. However the mandibular device wasn't quite as effective as the cpap therapy for sleep quality. I have a new mandibular device and I think i've reached my limit with chronic cough. So..... I think I will go through the new mandibular device learning curve and see if I can lose the cough for a season. Most of you are correct, meds and procedures don't seem to be the answer.
Feb 01, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Best advice NEW
by: Huey

I read all the comments. That took a while. It seems it boils down to one of three causes and solutions. 1. Changing the humidity level. I’m going to try that. 2. Bacteria. We all know that. However, I have been cleaning with white vinegar a little alcohol and soaking all the parts and hose in that. Maybe I’ll try that more often. 3. Air escaping from the mouth or nose. I also use a nose pad, and a mouthguard so that I don’t grind at night. I suppose it could be the air escaping. I do not want to go to a full face but that might be the final solution. Time will tell. Humidity. Winter. Air escaping. Bacteria. Like all medical solutions, sometimes it’s trial and error and a process of elimination. Best wishes to all.

The good news: This blog proves we are not alone in this aggravation.
Mar 01, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Really need answers NEW
by: Lillie

I have had trouble for about 2 yrs. Theres thick stringy phlegm. I've tried humidifier, full mid low and no humidifier at all it makes no difference. I use a little water or the right amount it makes no difference. It's to a point where I wake up choking and have to scrape the stuff off my tongue with thick napkins. I can use up to 10 napkins a night.i feel like I'm choking and can only sleep an hour or 3 before it wakes me up
Please does anyone have this problem. My dr has no clue, cpap companies are clueless and I'm I'm desparate.
Mar 01, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Really need help NEW
by: Lillie

I simply forget to mention my cpap has a heater and is an Air curve 10. I too get the long lines if phlegm. It's gotten ridiculous how bad this is.
May 02, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Phlegm and coughing NEW
by: Anonymous

I was put on a CPAP machine after having a sleep test and it helped a lot. I don't like using it so I decided to lose weight and get healthier hoping to someday not need it anymore. After losing 55 pounds I started to notice that I was feeling like I was drowning in phlegm when I would wake up during the night or in the morning. My mouth would be full of it and it was gross. I had another sleep study and explained what was happening to me, when talking with the technician setting up my test. After I told him about my weight loss he immediately said he thought the original pressure setting was more than likely too high for me now. I then met with my sleep doctor and he agreed and re-set the pressure setting to a lower number and it solved the problem immediately. Please check with your doctor about the pressure setting. It seems that could be the cause for some of the issues people have. I'm surprised that so many people posting have doctors that say their machine can't be causing issues. I've lost more weight and am noticing the mucus flow coming back so I'm going to have the pressure adjusted down again and I feel confident it will help. I hope this helps some of you out there having issues because it is so frustrating to have the equipment that is meant to make your life and sleep better, cause more issues to your comfort and health.
Jul 24, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		constant phlegm NEW
by: Anonymous

I have been using my CPAP for 2 years and tried every setting and still cough and spit all night. do you think a full mask would help?
Sep 17, 2021
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you!! Synopsis of what I learned here.
by: Michelle T

I found this site to be the most helpful. I've been on a ResMed (the white/gray one with flowers and a humidifier) since 2019 and I've had a cough almost from the start. It's gotten progressively worse. With COVID, if you cough in public, you're looked at like you have the plague or something! The issue is the phlegm. While I can always breathe through my nose, the congestion feels further up in there and drains throughout the day, causing me to cough or momentarily lose my voice. I've not used the device in 3 nights to see if my cough will clear up. The cough is preventing me from attending functions. I use a SoClean device daily to clean my system. I use the pillows under the nose and mouth tape to keep my mouth closed.

I'm thankful for the comments and suggestions posted here and have implemented several suggestions:
1) don't make too many settings adjustments at once so you can determine which setting makes the best improvement for you.
2) each time you add water, wash the tank out (I was just adding more water, thinking my SoClean was taking care of it; however, I've noticed sediment in the tank, even though I only use Distilled Water).
3) adjust the pressure to the lowest setting that is still correcting your problem. Someone said AHI<5 means it's working (Apnea Hypopnea Index is the number of events per hour). My device says my AHI=1.3. If I weren't adjusting my pressure, it would still be on the original setting when they gave it to me 2 years ago, which made my head feel like it would explode like an over pumped tire! There was no trial and error by the doc to determine an appropriate setting--just one size fits all, apparently. On Resmed: Hold the HOME button and the dial button simultaneously for several seconds to go into setup mode. Mine was set to min=10, max=15, I changed it to min=5, max=10.
4) adjust the humidity (some said lower the humidity others said raise the humidity. (I think this will depend on your house environment, the region you live in, and personal comfort levels.) I live in Florida with high humidity and still left mine on humidity=7. So I'm not making multiple changes at once, once I feel like the pressure settings are maintaining my AHI<5, I'll play with adjusting the humidity.

Thank you to all that contributed comments to this list. You confirmed for me that my issue was what I was suspecting and I have a renewed confidence that I can use my device with a better understanding of how different settings may help my coughing condition. I will monitor my condition, modify settings slowly, and report back in several weeks with my findings.
Jan 02, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Resmed cpa NEW
by: Anonymous

Is there a possibility that I can probably use medicine in the new motorfire when I do that there at night Let me know thank you
Feb 15, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		about two years of phegm problems in morning NEW
by: RS

I began with RESMED approximately 13 years ago, maybe more. The original machines had to be set to a personal need. Since then I have been using the RESMED 10. For the first NINE years everything has been fine. Not used the humidifier at all. But, over the last 2+ years I've been getting a morning phlegm problem, usually on my five-mile walk. I've had a full medical and running ramp then nuclear test, and my chest has come up totally clear. Of course like many others on here, I thought it had to be my own problem. The consistency in numbers appears to be many of us who've used the machine for approx 10 years (give or take a few years). This is OBVIOUSLY the AIRSENSE machine playing AT LEAST some part in our our chest problems. We should all notify them of this board and how many of us will be contacting them TOGETHER if the problem is not addressed.
Mar 19, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ResMed AirCurve10 and phlegm NEW
by: Carl Porter

I too have had issues with phlegm after starting my cpap therapy. I read one user turning his humidifier off and his humidifier and his phlegm disappeared. I can't use mine without humidity so I turned my machine down to 1. I am already experiencing much less phlegm after only 2 days.
Mar 20, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Coughing and phlegm after I take it off not during NEW
by: Frustrated

Hello … also use a RESMED AirSense 10 APAP w nasal pads. My situation is similar but a little different. I don’t have coughing and phlegm when I use the machine but when I take it off or at random times during the day. The machine prevents the O2 drops as I monitor my sleep with a special watch all night but I also have significant leakage do to mouth opening (I thiink).

I thought I read somewhere that maybe the CPAP with it’s rush of air might relax the LES valve causing reflux to come up from the stomach. Maybe when the machine is being used it pushes the phlegm back down. The phlegm either feels like it’s in the throat or around the breast bone. Sometimes I hook myself up to the machine to stop the phlegm and coughing but when I remove it starts again.

Does any one have any thoughts on this? I think maybe it’s time to take a break from the machine for awhile. Each specialist says I have what they specialize in and hands out useless drugs with nasty side effects.
Oct 17, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Head mucas NEW
by: Anonymous

Every morning I wake up I have all this mucus in my head I have a nasal mask I have a BiPAP machine with humidifier how can I relieve this head mucus it causes problems with clenching my jaws because of drainage I wake up in the morning and I cough cough cough cough cough
Oct 27, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Excessive Phlem, ear pressure, nasal congestion NEW
by: JP

I have been on CPAP SINCE Feb. 2020. My initial machine was Phillips Respironics with a regular hose, full face mask with chin strap. I had a VERY rough initial adjustment period of one month - too much air blowing down my throat and extremely dry tongue. I could not get sound sleep and began to develop a mild anxiety with panic feelings associated with using the machine. It honestly was torture, but I am a nurse and a mental health counselor and I was determined to make the adjustment! My sleep doctor lowered the pressure setting, ordered heated tubing, increased the humidity setting, and I switched to a nasal whisp mask with an elastic chin strap. I began sleeping through the night well and my EXTREME fatigue went away. In June of 2020 Phillips recalled this machine (still waiting for the replacement and we are sneaking up on 2023 - go figure) and I bought myself a Phillips Respironics II. I wash my tubing, connectors, and mask every morning in warm soapy water and hang to dry. Each Friday, I wash the humidity chamber and lid as well as everything else in soapy water with white vinegar and leave to dry. I use distilled water as directed. Off and on I have had morning ear pressure that resolves as I move around. I often have nasal congestion making it difficult to breathe through my nose when I put my nasal mask on to start the CPAP at bedtime but this resolves in short order with the delivery of pressured air and my nasal passages open up. I often use a nasal spray from Costco called Allerflo (Kirkland brand) which is helpful. All has gone pretty well until the past 2 months. I have been awaking at night with a very thick mucous/phlem deep in the base of my throat. I have to constantly try to clear this out as I feel I might choke on it. This is very disruptive to a sound sleep and I am experiencing the daytime fatigue again and very low energy. I seem to be experiencing some feelings of anxiety off and on during the day as well. It is no wonder so many people who need CPAP therapy give up on it. Our providers and durable medical equipment companies do not seem to be well informed enough to help us troubleshoot these difficult problems! After reading this thread, I plan to dump my humidifier reservoir daily and clean it with soapy water and vinegar, replace my headgear as the velcro is weakening and I am noticing more air leak around ithe nasal mask at night, ask for my pressure setting to be evaluated and consider adjusting my humidity level, which is at the highest setting (I live in Florida so low humidity is not a problem). I may return to a chin strap as well. I will adjust ONE variable at a time and go a week to see what I can determine as the source of this excessive phlegm problem and get back to you. I need the CPAP therapy! I was simply beyond exhausted and was losing the full use of my forearms and wrists with hand weakness as a result of sleep apnea not to mention the risk of heart failure and stroke with untreated sleep apnea! Hang in there!!! There is a solution 🙂
Dec 06, 2022
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		CPAC mucus problem NEW
by: Anonymous

Let us know how you make out my humidifier is at 2 I live in florida to
Jan 07, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		3 Years of Mucus with no solution
by: Anonymous

I started using Phillips Respironics CPAP about 3 years ago, and I noticed I started experiencing severe sneezing and coughing and later turned to very thick Mucus about 2 to 3 weeks of using the machine.
It’s been like that for 3 years of my life.
I visited the best Allergies Doctors and Lungs doctors in Canada and they all said nothing is wrong with me.
No allergies and no lungs problems.
I really don’t know how to get rid of this mess, and I can’t stop using the machine because I’m really scared of having a heart problem or any serious disease.
I really need help pleasie.
Jan 13, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Past dx Pansinusitus ( all sinuses) and Central plus obstructive Sleep apnea: new to ResMed.
by: J.Rivera

I was dx with Pansinusitus over 30 years ago from a abcessed tooth that led into sinuses. Have never seemed to fully get over it. Recently put on ResMed machine and nose mask. After 30 min. Fighting the strong air pressure coming out I took it off. Woke up the next morning with wheezing for the first time in lungs and coughing up yellow sputum. I know its because the Cpap blew the infection from sinuses to lungs. Going to see my Dr. Tomor. I have Both Central sleep apnea snd Obstructive.
May 14, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Perhaps a new diagnosis to consider prior to surgery: Positioning of body during surgery NEW
by: phil ghee

Positioning of body during surgery

I just had a premonition about how any lengthy surgery performed on me whilst laying on my back would perhaps result in my death.

I suffer from extreme post nasal drip to such a degree that although I would love to sleep on my back, this would not be an option. Over the years, medications have proven to be more (due to side-effects) bother than they are effective or worth. However, my body has developed a perhaps a knee-jerk reaction but, effective method for preventing too much of such drainage to accumulate in my breathing passages and/or lungs.

Is this a medically known and recognized condition ?

For those times when I do roll over to sleep on my back ( I can’t measure the length of time but I somehow believe it not to be that long) I will develop what is more or less the same symptom as if I had * sleep apnea. For many years I assumed that I had some form of low intensity sleep apnea although I am not overweight or prone to snoring. I even had a consultation that I bailed on after once seeing all the preparation and apparatus a once roommate had to endure to accommodate such treatment.

But in recent years I have noticed that just about all of these episodes which mimic apnea all seem to have one thing in common. When I am jolted away by such scary episodes, It will usually be followed by me depositing a god awful lump of mucus discharge into the toilet.


So, my premonition was that if I was to have such an episode during surgery would the surgeon and anesthesiologist realize that it is mucus blockage that causes the bells and whistles to sound. Even scarier is what they could do about it anyway given the precarious positioning of my body , I assume that just could flip me over and pound on my back. This as well as the inability of me to participate in expelling the mass of mucus would most assuredly lead to my death without the surgeons even speculating as to why. I believe they would probably just consider it death from Heart Failure due to the stress of the surgery.

Is it at all possible to have a surgery that is commonly performed in supine position to be repositioned ?

How could I address this in emergency situations where I am incapacitated? Would it be an acceptable and honored entry for a medical alert bracelet ?

* I assume that I am not the only one who suffers from this mimicking ( yet potentially deadly ) of apnea. Has this condition along with the body’s reflect mechanism been explored by medical science ?


Phil Ghee 5-14-2023



PS. If this leads to research, don't forget the sender of this information
Jun 26, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cough
by: Anonymous

I have been using my CPAP for going on 6 months now. Out of the blue I developed rattling in my chest that has persisted for weeks. At first I thought it was a cold or flu but I never had any other symptoms. Just a deep chest rattle followed by coughing. A lot of times the coughing brings stuff up which doesn’t look have the characteristics of a chest infection. I have not been to the doctor yet and after reading these comments I don’t know if it will even help. Has anyone else had this problem? Have you found a solution?
Jul 22, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Mucus one month after started using CPAP NEW
by: Anonymous


I got mucus one month after using a Resmed 10

I have seen ENT a Gastroenterologis and Respirologist as well as an Allergist

and still now answers

When I stopped using the CPAP I still have mucus now

its clear and sticky
Nov 04, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Phlegm and coughing NEW
by: Anonymous

I am glad I found this page and cpap community. I have had my cpap since 2018, and I got the recall replacement last year. Shortly after I began having coughing and phlegm, my family doctor prescribed antibiotics twice but it did not help. She thought it was a sinus infection. My doctor ordered an a chest x-ray, and it was clear.

My frustration and concerns grew because we were not able to locate the source. It was embarrassing that I'm suddenly traveling with tissue because I was coughing up phlegm. As a female i not was not a good look. Finally after months of trying to find the problem my family doctor suggested it may be symptoms from the cpap machine. My sleep doctor brushed off the concerns. After months of prayers, research I started playing around with the adjustments on the machine, and I accidentally found some relief. The next few days I noticed a difference in the phlegm build up. This morning I found myself searching online, and landed on this page. Your conversation has confirmed that I am moving in the right direction. Thank you so much for sharing your experience it has giving me some comfort there is a solution.
Nov 26, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Doesn't the bipap machine blow phlegm down inside my lungs NEW
by: Anonymous

Doesn't the bypap machine blow phlegm down inside my lungs
Jan 10, 2024
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		coughing phlem after cpap NEW
by: Dennis T.

I have fibrosis. 35% of my lungs are dead. I'm on ofev. A medicine that slows and sometimes stops the decay. I just got a cpap. used for three nights.

Prior to cpap Prednisone was the go to medicine to control excessive coughing, spitting phlem and mucus. It helped me be functional around the houise.

When i get off cpap I start coughing and spitting phlem. Is this normal?
Jan 10, 2024
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		coughing phlem after cpap
by: Dennis T.

I have fibrosis. 35% of my lungs are dead. I'm on ofev. A medicine that slows and sometimes stops the decay. I just got a cpap. used for three nights.

Prior to cpap Prednisone was the go to medicine to control excessive coughing, spitting phlem and mucus. It helped me be functional around the houise.

When i get off cpap I start coughing and spitting phlem. Is this normal?

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