What is a common side effect of CPAP therapy?

Nasal congestion or dryness is a well-recognized side effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. This occurs because the airflow generated by the CPAP machine can lead to drying of the nasal mucosa or sinuses. The mask interface can also cause irritation or discomfort, potentially leading to inflammation or increased mucus production, which can result in congestion.

Patients using CPAP often report these symptoms, especially in the initial stages of therapy as their bodies adjust to the continuous airflow. It’s essential for healthcare providers to address these issues by recommending humidification options to the CPAP machine, nasal saline sprays, or other supportive measures to alleviate discomfort.

The other options listed do not typically correlate as direct common side effects of CPAP therapy. Weight gain can be influenced by various lifestyle factors and is not a direct result of CPAP use. Excessive daytime sleepiness generally indicates inadequate treatment of sleep apnea and should improve with effective CPAP use. Migraines can occur for various reasons, but they are not a standard side effect associated with CPAP therapy.