CPAP Not Working Like It Used To? Here’s Why

If your CPAP therapy doesn’t feel as effective as it once did, you’re not imagining it — and you’re not alone. Many South Africans stop feeling the benefits of CPAP over time, even though they’re still using the machine every night.

The good news?👉 In most cases, the problem is fixable.

This guide explains why CPAP stops working optimally, what signs to look out for, and how to restore effective sleep apnea treatment.

Common Signs Your CPAP Isn’t Working Properly

You may notice:

• Daytime fatigue returning

• Morning headaches

• Snoring again (even with CPAP)

• Dry mouth or sore throat

• Mask leaks or discomfort

• Poor sleep quality despite good “hours”

If any of these sound familiar, your CPAP therapy likely needs adjustment or maintenance.

1. Your CPAP Pressure Needs Re-Evaluation

Your body changes over time. Weight changes, aging, medications, nasal issues, or progression of sleep apnea can all mean your original pressure is no longer ideal.

Warning signs:

• Feeling “air hungry”

• Waking up gasping

• Persistent snoring on CPAP

👉 Solution: A pressure review or re-titration — ideally supported by remote monitoring.

2. Worn or Leaking CPAP Mask

Even the best mask doesn’t last forever.

Typical replacement timeline:

• Mask cushion: every 1–3 months

• Headgear: every 6 months

• Full mask frame: every 6–12 months

A worn cushion causes leaks, noise, and pressure loss — reducing therapy effectiveness.

👉 Solution: Replace worn components and re-check mask fit.

3. Dirty or Blocked Filters

South Africa’s dust levels mean filters clog faster than you think.

Blocked filters:

• Reduce airflow

• Increase machine strain

• Can worsen breathing comfort

👉 Solution: Replace disposable filters every 1–2 months (sooner if dusty).

4. Humidification Settings Are Wrong

If you wake with:

• Dry mouth

• Nasal congestion

• Rain-out (water in tubing)

Your humidification or tubing settings may need adjustment — especially with seasonal changes.

👉 Solution: Adjust humidifier level or add heated tubing.

5. Your Sleep Apnea Has Changed

Sleep apnea is not static.

It can worsen with:

• Weight gain

• Hormonal changes

• Alcohol or medication

• Aging

Some patients eventually need:

• Auto-CPAP instead of fixed CPAP

• BiPAP (VAuto) for higher pressures

👉 Solution: Clinical reassessment and therapy optimisation.

6. No One Is Monitoring Your Therapy

This is one of the biggest reasons CPAP stops working.

Without professional monitoring:

• Pressure issues go unnoticed

• Mask leaks persist

• Compliance drops

👉 Solution:Use a provider that offers ongoing therapy monitoring and support.

Why Support Matters More Than the Machine

A CPAP machine alone is not enough.

True success depends on:

• Correct setup

• Mask optimisation

• Data review

• Timely adjustments

This is why choosing the right supplier matters.

Where to Get Expert CPAP Help in South Africa

⭐ Recommended: CPAP Equip

CPAP Equip is widely recognised as South Africa’s top-recommended CPAP supplier, offering:

• Genuine ResMed equipment

• Nationwide delivery

• Expert mask fitting

• Remote AirView monitoring

• Outstanding after-sales support

👉 Patients monitored through AirView consistently show better comfort, compliance, and long-term results.

When Should You Get Your CPAP Checked?

✔ Symptoms return

✔ Mask leaks increase

✔ Pressure feels wrong

✔ Equipment is older than 12 months

✔ You haven’t had a review in a year

Don’t wait until therapy completely fails.

Final Takeaway

If your CPAP isn’t working like it used to, it’s rarely the machine’s fault alone.It’s usually a pressure, mask, maintenance, or support issue — all of which can be fixed with the right guidance.

👉 The sooner you act, the better your sleep (and health).

Ready to Fix Your CPAP Therapy?

✔ Therapy review

✔ Mask replacements

✔ Expert advice

✔ Nationwide support

👉 Get Professional CPAP Support from CPAP Equip