Getting used to CPAP Therapy: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started With a CPAP Machine

  • By Clay Rollyson
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Starting CPAP therapy for sleep apnea can feel intimidating at first—but you’re not alone. At CPAPmyway.com, we help thousands of people every year get comfortable with their machines and finally experience restful, uninterrupted sleep. If you’re just beginning your CPAP journey, here’s how to make the adjustment smoother and more successful.

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Expect a Bit of a Learning Curve

You’re not doing it wrong if the first few nights feel off. It’s completely normal for new CPAP users to need some time to settle in. Early on, you might deal with things like:

  • A mask that feels awkward or uncomfortable
  • A dry mouth or now
  • Some pressure or bloating in your stomach (easily addressed by changing air pressure)
  • Air leaks or shifting during the night
  • General discomfort falling asleep with something on your face

That adjustment period is completely normal, but there’s a lot you can do to make it easier. From choosing the right gear to building the right habits, small changes can add up quickly. Let’s walk through some simple, proven steps that help new users feel more comfortable and confident with CPAP therapy.

1. Get the Right CPAP Equipment for You

Not all CPAP gear is one-size-fits-all. Having the right setup is the foundation of comfort and long-term success.

  • Choose the best mask style for your sleep habits:
    There are three main types—nasal masks, nasal pillow masks, and full-face masks. Side sleepers often prefer nasal pillows because they’re lightweight, while mouth breathers may need a full-face mask for better seal and airflow.
  • Look for cpap machines with user-friendly features:
    Features like ramp time (which gradually increases pressure as you fall asleep), humidifiers (to reduce dryness), and auto-adjusting pressure settings can make a huge difference in how natural the experience feels.
  • Make sure your pressure settings are personalized:
    CPAP machines are usually set by your doctor or sleep specialist based on your needs. An improper setting can make it harder to breathe or stay asleep, so be sure it’s been adjusted for you.

Signs your might need a different mask:

  • You wake up with red marks, skin irritation, or headaches
  • The mask leaks air into your eyes or makes noise
  • You feel claustrophobic or anxious once it’s on
  • You keep removing it during the night without realizing it

2. Ease Into Therapy Gradually

If wearing a mask and breathing pressurized air feels odd at first, that’s totally normal. Take it step by step.

  • Wear the mask while awake:
    Spend 20–30 minutes wearing your mask in a comfortable setting—like watching TV or reading in bed. This helps desensitize your face and brain to the new sensation without the pressure of trying to fall asleep.
  • Use the ramp feature on your machine:
    The ramp starts the air pressure low and gradually increases it over a set period (usually 15–45 minutes), so you’re not hit with full pressure right away.
  • Start with naps or shorter sleep sessions:
    Try using your CPAP during an afternoon nap or the first few hours of your night. Even partial use early on builds tolerance and makes it easier to use all night later.

3. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Comfort is king when adjusting to CPAP. A few simple changes can help make your setup feel more natural.

  • Use a humidifier to avoid dryness:
    Pressurized air can dry out your nasal passages and throat. Integrated or heated humidifiers add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe and preventing irritation.
  • Adjust your mask for the right fit:
    A common mistake is tightening the mask too much. This can cause pressure marks or leaks. Instead, aim for a secure seal that feels gentle. Try adjusting while lying down—your face shape changes slightly when you’re on your back.
  • Consider mask liners or pads:
    These soft fabric barriers go between your mask and skin to reduce irritation, improve comfort, and even help reduce leaks for some users.

4. Be Patient and Consistent

  • It may take a few weeks to fully adjust:
    Many users feel frustrated in the first week or two. Don’t let that discourage you. The benefits grow the longer you stick with it.
  • Use your CPAP every night—even for part of the night:
    If you can’t manage the whole night at first, aim to use it as long as you can. The consistency helps you build the habit.
  • Track your progress using your machine’s app or display:
    Most machines track usage data, like hours used and mask seal quality. Monitoring your progress helps identify areas to improve and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Information aid telling a fact about CPAP therapy and the benefit of sticking with it. "Patients who use CPAP regularly are 64% less likely to experience a heart attack or stroke compared to those who don't stick with CPAP therapy."

5. Ask for Support When You Need It

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Reaching out early can save you weeks of trial and error.

  • If your mask is leaking or uncomfortable:
    Try different mask types or sizes. Our team can help you troubleshoot and suggest more comfortable options based on your face shape and sleep style.
  • If you feel like you’re not getting enough air:
    Your pressure settings might need adjustment. It’s important not to change these on your own unless advised—reach out to your doctor or our support team.
  • If you’re experiencing dry mouth, stuffy nose, or trouble falling asleep:
    There are accessories and troubleshooting solutions for all of these—like chin straps, nasal sprays, or heated tubing. The key is communicating your discomforts early.

6. Celebrate Your Wins

Every night you use your CPAP is a step toward better health. Don’t forget to recognize the progress you’re making.

Information aid telling the benefits of stickign with CPAP therapy. "In a large clinical trail, 68% of CPAP users reported better energy, focus, and mood within the first few weeks of consistent use."
  • You’ll likely notice more energy and mental clarity:
    Quality sleep improves memory, mood, and daily focus.
  • Better sleep helps regulate blood pressure and heart health:
    CPAP therapy reduces the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea, including cardiovascular issues and fatigue-related accidents.
  • Small wins add up—track how you’re feeling over time:
    Keep a journal or log. Many people start noticing changes in their energy, headaches, or snoring in just a few weeks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the right setup, it’s normal to run into a few hiccups early on. The good news is that most of them have simple fixes.

Here are some of hte most common issues new users face:

  • Dry mouth or nose
    Quality sleep improves memory, mood, and daily focus.
  • Air leaks
    Make sure your mask is the right size and adjusted properly. Replace worn-out cushions or try a different mask style if the problem keeps happening.
  • Feeling bloated or gassy
    This could be from swallowing air (a common issue known as aerophagia). Use the ramp setting to start at a lower pressure and build up slowly.
  • Water in the hose
    If you’re seeing or hearing water inside the hose, that’s called rainout. You can reduce it by keeping your hose elevated or switching to a heated tube.

Final Thoughts: CPAP Therapy Gets Easier and We’re Here to Help

Image linking to the contact us page. We provide comprehensive personal customer support.

Adjusting to CPAP therapy isn’t always easy at first, but it’s absolutely worth it. With the right equipment, mindset, and support, you’ll be on your way to deeper sleep and better health.

At CPAPmyway.com, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from choosing your first machine to fine-tuning your setup for ultimate comfort.

Common Questions

What if I rip the mask off in my sleep?
That happens more than you’d think. Just put it back on if you wake up and keep trying. If it’s a regular thing, try wearing the mask while you’re awake to build tolerance—or consider a different mask style.

Can I take a night off?
Technically yes, but you’ll likely feel it the next day. Using your machine every night gives your body the consistency it needs to recover.

How do I clean it?

Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Used to CPAP Therapy

That’s common for new users. Your body may not be used to the mask yet. Try wearing it while you’re awake for 15 to 30 minutes each evening. This helps reduce the “foreign object” sensation. If it keeps happening, your mask might be uncomfortable or not the right fit. You may want to try a different mask style.

You can, but it might affect how you feel the next day. CPAP therapy works best when used consistently. Even using it for part of the night is better than not using it at all.

Keeping your equipment clean helps prevent bacteria buildup and keeps everything working properly.

Here’s what to do:

  • Wipe your mask down daily using a soft cloth or CPAP wipe
  • Wash the tubing and mask parts weekly using warm soapy water
  • Replace disposable filters every 2 to 4 weeks
  • Swap out mask cushions every 1 to 3 months

We also carry CPAP cleaning devices that make this process much easier.

Yes, CPAP machines are travel-friendly. You can bring them on airplanes, and they do not count against your carry-on limit. Many people keep a small travel case packed with their device, mask, and power cord. There are also smaller machines specifically designed for travel if you’re on the go often.

This often means your humidifier setting needs to be adjusted. If you’re a mouth breather using a nasal mask, a chin strap may help. In some cases, switching to a full face mask is the better option.

Ramp starts your therapy at a lower pressure and gradually increases it over a set time. If full pressure feels too strong when you’re trying to fall asleep, ramp can make a big difference. It’s especially useful in the first few weeks.

Most people begin adjusting within one to two weeks. For others, it may take a month or more. The key is to be consistent. The more nights you use it, the faster your body will accept it as part of your sleep routine.

It could be a pressure setting issue, or your mask may be too tight and restricting airflow.

Air leaks usually mean your mask isn’t sealing properly. Make sure you’re using the right size and type. Over-tightening can make things worse. Try adjusting it while lying down in your usual sleeping position. If leaks continue, it might be time to try a different cushion or mask altogether.

  • CPAP: Delivers a constant, fixed pressure throughout the night
  • APAP: Automatically adjusts the pressure depending on how you breathe
  • BiPAP: Uses a higher pressure for inhaling and a lower pressure for exhaling

With proper care, most CPAP machines last 5–7 years.

Yes, but it may affect mask fit. Side sleepers often do well with nasal pillow or nasal masks, which are smaller and easier to keep sealed. Stomach sleeping is more difficult with CPAP, but it’s possible with the right mask and a specially designed CPAP pillow.

Definitely. Using your CPAP during naps helps reinforce the habit and gives your body more consistent therapy. It also helps you get more comfortable with the mask and airflow.

Yes, a valid prescription is required to purchase a CPAP machine. If you’ve lost your old prescription or need a new one, we offer services that can help you renew it quickly and easily online.

For ideal hygiene and performance, replace

  • Disposable filters every 1–2 months
  • Mask cushions/pillows every 1–3 months
  • Complete mask systems every 3–6 months
  • Tubing every 6–12 months
  • Water chamber every 6 months

If you’re using the machine consistently and still feel tired, it’s worth checking the data from your device or talking to your provider. It might be a pressure setting issue, mask leak, or something else unrelated to CPAP. We’re happy to help review your setup and suggest adjustments.

Starting CPAP therapy for sleep apnea can feel intimidating at first—but you’re not alone. At CPAPmyway.com, we help thousands of people every year get comfortable with their machines and finally experience restful, uninterrupted sleep. If you’re just beginning your CPAP journey, here’s how to make the adjustment smoother and more successful.

1. Get the Right CPAP Equipment for You

Not all CPAP gear is one-size-fits-all. Having the right setup is the foundation of comfort and long-term success.

  • Choose the best mask style for your sleep habits:
    There are three main types—nasal masks, nasal pillow masks, and full-face masks. Side sleepers often prefer nasal pillows because they’re lightweight, while mouth breathers may need a full-face mask for better seal and airflow.
  • Look for machines with user-friendly features:
    Features like ramp time (which gradually increases pressure as you fall asleep), humidifiers (to reduce dryness), and auto-adjusting pressure settings can make a huge difference in how natural the experience feels.
  • Make sure your pressure settings are personalized:
    CPAP machines are usually set by your doctor or sleep specialist based on your needs. An improper setting can make it harder to breathe or stay asleep, so be sure it’s been adjusted for you.

2. Ease Into Therapy Gradually

If wearing a mask and breathing pressurized air feels odd at first, that’s totally normal. Take it step by step.

  • Wear the mask while awake:
    Spend 20–30 minutes wearing your mask in a comfortable setting—like watching TV or reading in bed. This helps desensitize your face and brain to the new sensation without the pressure of trying to fall asleep.
  • Use the ramp feature on your machine:
    The ramp starts the air pressure low and gradually increases it over a set period (usually 15–45 minutes), so you’re not hit with full pressure right away.
  • Start with naps or shorter sleep sessions:
    Try using your CPAP during an afternoon nap or the first few hours of your night. Even partial use early on builds tolerance and makes it easier to use all night later.

3. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Comfort is king when adjusting to CPAP. A few simple changes can help make your setup feel more natural.

  • Use a humidifier to avoid dryness:
    Pressurized air can dry out your nasal passages and throat. Integrated or heated humidifiers add moisture to the air, making it easier to breathe and preventing irritation.
  • Adjust your mask for the right fit:
    A common mistake is tightening the mask too much. This can cause pressure marks or leaks. Instead, aim for a secure seal that feels gentle. Try adjusting while lying down—your face shape changes slightly when you’re on your back.
  • Consider mask liners or pads:
    These soft fabric barriers go between your mask and skin to reduce irritation, improve comfort, and even help reduce leaks for some users.

4. Be Patient and Consistent

Your body needs time to adapt to this new routine—especially your brain and sleep patterns.

  • It may take a few weeks to fully adjust:
    Many users feel frustrated in the first week or two. Don’t let that discourage you. The benefits grow the longer you stick with it.
  • Use your CPAP every night—even for part of the night:
    If you can’t manage the whole night at first, aim to use it as long as you can. The consistency helps you build the habit.
  • Track your progress using your machine’s app or display:
    Most machines track usage data, like hours used and mask seal quality. Monitoring your progress helps identify areas to improve and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

5. Ask for Support When You Need It

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Reaching out early can save you weeks of trial and error.

  • If your mask is leaking or uncomfortable:
    Try different mask types or sizes. Our team can help you troubleshoot and suggest more comfortable options based on your face shape and sleep style.
  • If you feel like you’re not getting enough air:
    Your pressure settings might need adjustment. It’s important not to change these on your own unless advised—reach out to your doctor or our support team.
  • If you’re experiencing dry mouth, stuffy nose, or trouble falling asleep:
    There are accessories and troubleshooting solutions for all of these—like chin straps, nasal sprays, or heated tubing. The key is communicating your discomforts early.

6. Celebrate Your Wins

Every night you use your CPAP is a step toward better health. Don’t forget to recognize the progress you’re making.

  • You’ll likely notice more energy and mental clarity:
    Quality sleep improves memory, mood, and daily focus.
  • Better sleep helps regulate blood pressure and heart health:
    CPAP therapy reduces the risks associated with untreated sleep apnea, including cardiovascular issues and fatigue-related accidents.
  • Small wins add up—track how you’re feeling over time:
    Keep a journal or log. Many people start noticing changes in their energy, headaches, or snoring in just a few weeks.

Final Thoughts: CPAP Therapy Gets Easier—And We’re Here to Help

Adjusting to CPAP therapy isn’t always easy at first, but it’s absolutely worth it. With the right equipment, mindset, and support, you’ll be on your way to deeper sleep and better health.

At CPAPmyway.com, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—from choosing your first machine to fine-tuning your setup for ultimate comfort.