Relief From Vasomotor Rhinitis during PAP therapy

[ejbpesca]

During the use of my CPAP machine, my nose stays clearer than usual.  I do not experience allergy symptoms or vasomotor rhinitis nearly as much while breathing through my machine.  Humidity makes no difference and I rarely use it.

I am allergic to many airborne substances (pollen/mold/dust) and experience vasomotor rhinitis from those and other substances.  I had thought for decades that my clogged nasal/sinus passages were the result of just allergies until learning about vasomotor rhinitis.

Examples of vasomotor rhinitis triggers are perfume, cigarette smoke, chemical odors, and other substances undetected by smells that can cause immediate runny nose, clogged nose, and headache.  One or both sides of my nasal passages can seal up in seconds with zero airflow.  Talk about Flow Limitations!

Maybe it's the machine's filter or maybe it's the air pressure keeping the nose clear,  but thankfully once the mask is on and therapy starts my nose usually stays clear and breathing is easier.  I see on another thread that I'm not alone with the phenomenon, if it is a phenomenon.

[jdougc]

ej, interesting post on vasomotor rhinitis, my nose clears up also when I put my mask on.
My response to fragrance is tough. I took my on sheets to my  recent sleep test.

[Jay51]

Thanks for the post ej.  

I have been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis also.  After eating breakfast, my nose usually runs.  

In the morning after a good night's sleep, my nose is slightly stuffy at rare times - usually no problem (I used high pressures of 10/20 and humidification).  With no humidification, my nasal passages are more dry and irritated.  No irritation with slightly above the median factory set humidification on my humidifier.  

Also use prescription spray and medication.  

What has worked best for me has been focusing on opening up my nasal passages as much as possible with either breathe rite strips (or equivalent) or nasal dilators.  More room for air to flow is easier for me. 

I think I read where you tried nasal dilators, but couldn't use them.  

Glad you found out what the cause was for yourself.