Suggest Treatment For Severe Runny Nose While Using CPAP Machine

Posted on Mon, 31 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 Answered on

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a cpap machine with a humidifier. Now after some years I get a severe runny nose at 3 am. I am reluctant to get used to using oxymetazoline nasal spray regularly as I have heard that this could lead to a dangerous dependence and other problems.
Thanks for your answer XXXXXXX Seay

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Check the humidifier. Avoid the oxymetazoline nasal spray.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. Check the humidifier. Improper humidification and temperature changes will lead to a runny nose.

2. Overuse of an oxymetazoline nasal spray will lead to a condition called rhinitis medicamentosa.

3. Request your doctor to prescribe an anti-allergic medication and a steroid nasal spray. Check the nose for dryness or fungal infection with a nasal examination and an endoscopy, if possible. A nasal saline wash will help. Sinusitis or nasal valve problems can also be a contributing cause.

4. If the anti-allergic medication does not control the symptoms, this is more likely to be a problem with the humidifier or the pressure settings.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar