A stuffy, dry, or runny nose that shows up specifically after starting CPAP is extremely common, especially in the first few weeks.
Why it happens
Pressurized air moving through your nasal passages all night can dry out the delicate tissue, triggering swelling, dryness, or a rebound runny nose — even in people with no history of nasal problems.
How to fix it
- Turn up your humidifier. This is the single most effective fix for CPAP-related nasal dryness.
- Try heated tubing. It prevents the humidified air from cooling and losing moisture before it reaches you.
- Use a saline nasal rinse before bed. This clears irritants and adds moisture to nasal tissue before therapy starts.
- Ask about a nasal steroid spray. Over-the-counter or prescription sprays can reduce inflammation — check with your doctor first.
- Consider a heated humidifier upgrade. Older or entry-level machines sometimes have limited humidification — a full-featured humidifier chamber can make a big difference.
🎟️ Heated tubing and upgraded humidifier chambers are available at TheCPAPBox — use code FRIEND5 to save.
Shop TheCPAPBox →See your doctor if: congestion is accompanied by facial pain, thick discolored discharge, nosebleeds, or doesn't improve after a few weeks of increased humidification — this could indicate a sinus issue worth treating separately.
Related reading
How to Use Your CPAP →
Dry Mouth & Throat →