Dr. Kim Hutchison is a Neurologist and Sleep specialist, CPAP expert and educator based in Portland, Oregon. She is also the inventor of Somnoseal. She is NOT sponsoring this podcast, though we will be mentioning her product in today’s discussion. She joins the podcast to discuss some of the most common problems faced by individuals with sleep apnea who use CPAP machines. The conversation covers topics such as dry mouth and mouth leaks, nasal masks and training to nasal breathe, the Somnaseal product, chin straps and full face masks, alternative solutions like mouth taping, mask leaks and mask liners, rain out and tips to prevent it, and expiratory pressure release feature and how to mitigate pressure issues.

Check out her website: Kimberlymd.com; Product website: somnoseal.com

Instagram: @kimberlymdsleep

Facebook: kimberlymd

Takeaways: Dry mouth and mouth leaks are common problems faced by individuals using CPAP machines. Mouth leaks are often caused by the mouth dropping open during sleep.

• Training to nasal breathe can help reduce dry mouth and mouth leaks. Myofunctional therapy and using devices like the Somnaseal can assist in nasal breathing.
• Chin straps and full face masks are options for individuals with mouth leaks, but they may not be comfortable for everyone. Mouth taping can be an alternative solution.
• Mask leaks can be addressed with mask liners and other accessories like the Gecko nasal pad. Finding the right mask style and fit is important.
• Rain out, which is condensation in the CPAP tube, can be prevented by using a heated tube, tube covers, or adjusting the humidity settings. Keeping the CPAP machine lower than the bed can also help.
• The pressure sensation of CPAP can be managed by adjusting the pressure settings, using expiratory pressure release, or trying the VCOM device.
• It's important to work with a healthcare provider to find the best solutions for individual needs and to not give up on CPAP therapy.