Swollen lips and CPAP use

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Hi. I have been using a CPAP machine for a month now. I have mild apnea an d the pressure rate is between 5 and 15 on a Resmed machine. I am using a nasal mask with a good fit. I have been using a non-heated humidifier. My mouth is often very dry, though for most of the night my mouth is closed. I noticed swelling in my lower lip especially and lesser in my upper lip about 2-3 weeks ago along with very dry chapped lips in the last 2 weeks. This swelling has persisted throughout with no other s and symptoms. I am keeping mask and machine parts clean.

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Hi there — it sounds like you’ve been doing a great job staying consistent with your CPAP and keeping everything clean, so it’s understandable you’d be concerned about this new lip irritation and swelling.

Dry mouth and chapped lips can definitely happen with CPAP use, even when it feels like your mouth is staying closed. Sometimes a little bit of air still escapes through the mouth or lips, especially during deeper sleep, which can dry out the tissues and cause cracking or swelling over time.

A few things you might try:

  • Add or switch to a heated humidifier — that extra moisture can really help reduce dryness and irritation.

  • Apply a water-based lubricant or gentle, unscented lip balm (like Aquaphor, Biotène gel, or Lansinoh) before bed to keep your lips hydrated overnight.

  • Use a soft chin strap or mouth tape (only if you’re comfortable and cleared by your provider) to reduce any air leak through the mouth.

  • Check your mask seal and humidity settings — even a small leak can direct airflow toward your lips and worsen dryness.

  • If the lip swelling doesn’t improve, or worsens, reach out to your doctor or sleep provider to rule out an allergic reaction to the mask material or cleaning solution.

You’re definitely not alone — many people experience this early on with CPAP, and a few simple tweaks usually make a big difference :light_blue_heart:

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Hello, I recommend you to report it with your doctor. Pressure should be the correct one for you (maybe 5, or 6, but do not use AUTO).
Good luck,