I have both CSA and OSA. I’'ve been on ASV machine for about 6 weeks. I’m averaging 8 hrs ASV per night and having 1-2 apnea events. After about 5-6 hrs of sleep I’m starting to feel like my lungs are being stretched and I’m having trouble staying comfortable. I’m a side sleeper but never had this “stretched” feeling before ASV therapy. It wakes me up and causes me to take smaller or shallower breaths to not make the “stretched” feeling worse. Has anyone else experienced this? Could this be related to pressure settings?
I would definitely reach out to your doctor about this, but here are a few points to consider:
As you suspect, the feeling of “stretched lungs” you’re describing could definitely be related to the pressure setting of your ASV machine. These machines adjust pressure based on your breathing patterns, and if the pressure is set too high, it can lead to feelings of discomfort or lung pressure. So definitely talk to your healthcare provider and see if they have any thoughts on this.
In the meantime, one thing you can try is sleeping in a different position, like on your back, or using a pillow with a higher or lower loft. Sometimes the way your body is positions can reduce pressure related-sensations.
This is a pretty common feeling from my experience, so your Dr. should be able to help here.