Maintaining your CPAP mask seal is essential for effective sleep apnea therapy.
Learn how to maintain your CPAP mask seal when using a pillow. Adjust pillow position, sleeping position, and mask fit to prevent air leaks.
If your pillow presses against your CPAP mask while you sleep on your side or stomach, it can shift the mask and cause air leaks, pressure, or soreness around the mask. Try adjusting your pillow position, sleeping position, and mask fit to reduce contact with your mask.
Solutions
- Adjust your pillow position: Position your pillow so it supports your head without pressing directly against your mask or mask frame.
- Adjust your sleeping position: Slightly turning your head or changing your position may reduce pressure on the mask and help maintain the seal.
- Check your mask fit: Put on and adjust your mask while lying in your normal sleeping position. Make sure the mask is comfortably fitted without overtightening the straps.
- Consider a CPAP pillow: A CPAP pillow is designed with contours or cutouts that provide additional space around the mask, which may help reduce contact between your pillow and mask while you sleep on your side or stomach.
CPAP Pillow Options
A CPAP pillow for side sleeping is specially designed for CPAP users who sleep on their side or stomach. It may help reduce pressure on the mask and make it easier to maintain a comfortable seal.
See our CPAP pillows guide to learn more about choosing a pillow for CPAP therapy.