Posted by Breezely on June 09, 2009 at 08:28:59:In Reply to: Re: Sinus problems with BiPap posted by sleepygal2 on February 21, 2009 at 11:24:02:
I have used CPAP since about 1995 or 1996. (I was pretty loggy back then from lack of sleep, so don't remember the exact date.) I have had sinus problems for at least ten years. I use my CPAP every night, but have to take a shot of Afrin in one or both nostrils every night or my nose blocks and I get an apnea, anyway. I have tried the steroid sprays and they do absolutely nothing. Same with neti, saline sprays, humidifier, thyme oil drops in the humidifier water, etc. I have been to an ENT who did surgery to the turbinates and deviated septum in my nose, but that didn't help.
Recently I developed nosebleeds which were obviously coming from a sinus. (The blood was old and "mucousy".) I also got what appeared to be an infected tooth because it was heat and cold sensitive. The dentist found nothing wrong with the tooth, but said my sinus was cloudy in the X-rays. Now my doctor wants me to get a cat scan. (Sorry doc, you're the rich one, not me.)
After all of this it has just occurred to me that the cushion of the nasal mask I have been wearing rests on the sinus and directly on the point were the sinus joins the nasal cavity - 8 hours a day. I find this very suspect. I just ordered a nasal pillow type mask which should alleviate this problem.
After so many years, I assume it will take a while for my sinuses to heal - if the mask pressure really is the problem. If it works I will report back.--Brian