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Still Snoring with CPAP? Here's What You Should Know

• cpap • By Krystle von Fange author portrait

Still Snoring with CPAP? Here's What You Should Know

If you’re still snoring with CPAP, you're not alone. Many people expect CPAP therapy to stop snoring instantly, but sometimes it needs fine-tuning to work its best. In this guide, I'll walk you through why you might still be snoring with a CPAP machine, what adjustments you can make, and when to seek further help.

Sometimes, the issue comes down to mask fit. If air leaks are part of the problem, a small tool like MouthShield can help. It’s a soft, flexible barrier worn between your lips that gently encourages your mouth to stay closed while you sleep—helping prevent leaks, reduce snoring, and improve your CPAP seal. I've seen firsthand how it can make a huge difference.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • Snoring with CPAP can happen due to mask leaks, pressure settings, or nasal issues.

  • Adjusting your equipment or adding accessories can dramatically improve results.

  • If the snoring continues, a sleep specialist can help get things back on track.

  • Accessories like MouthShield can enhance your therapy and comfort.

Why Am I Still Snoring with CPAP?

Snoring with CPAP can be frustrating, especially when CPAP therapy is designed to keep your airway open. But if you’re still snoring, something might not be working properly. It's a signal to troubleshoot rather than give up.

Remember, untreated snoring isn't just noisy—it often means poor sleep quality, oxygen drops, and long-term health risks.

How CPAP Therapy Works (and Why Snoring Might Persist)

CPAP therapy works by delivering a steady stream of air into your airway to keep it open during sleep. This helps prevent apnea events (breathing interruptions) and should also reduce or eliminate snoring.

But the success of your therapy hinges on a few important factors:

  • Is your air pressure high enough?

  • Does your mask fit properly?

  • Are you keeping your mouth closed while sleeping?

If any of these elements are off, it can affect how well the therapy works—and let the snoring return.

Common Causes of Snoring While Using CPAP

Several factors might explain why you’re still snoring with CPAP:

  • Mask Leaks: If air escapes, it won’t keep your airway open.

  • Mouth Breathing: Breathing through your mouth while you’re sleeping can bypass the pressure meant for your airway.

  • Low Pressure Settings: Too little pressure may not hold your airway open enough.

  • Nasal Congestion: Blocked nasal passages often lead to mouth breathing.

  • Poor Mask Fit: If your mask doesn’t seal properly, snoring can sneak back in.

But here’s the good news: each of these issues has a fix!

Simple Adjustments That Can Make a Big Difference

Sometimes, a small tweak is all it takes to start sleeping (and breathing) better. If you’re snoring with a CPAP machine, adjusting the settings might be key.

Try these:

  1. Increase the Pressure: Ask your provider about a slightly higher setting that might stop the snoring.

  2. Switch to Auto-CPAP: These machines adjust pressure throughout the night to adapt to your needs.

  3. Reconsider the Ramp Feature: Some users find the initial low pressure lets snoring creep in. Try disabling the ramp feature to see if snoring improves.

Important: Always make changes with the support of your doctor or sleep specialist.

Don’t Overlook the Importance of Mask Fit and Seal

An improper mask fit leads to air leaks—a top reason for snoring with CPAP. If your mask whistles, hisses, shifts around at night, or leaves you with a dry mouth in the morning, it might not be sealing properly.

What can help:

  • Try different mask types (full-face, nasal, nasal pillows, etc.)

  • Add a soft mask liner to improve comfort and reduce leaks.

  • Tighten straps just enough—but not so much that it’s uncomfortable.

Using Mouth Shield alongside your CPAP can also help maintain a better seal and reduce snoring caused by mouth leaks, especially if you're a mouth breather.

When to Consider a Different CPAP Machine or Interface

If you’ve adjusted your settings and tried different masks but find you’re still snoring with CPAP, it might be time to explore other options:

  • BiPAP Machines: Offer two pressure settings—one for inhaling, one for exhaling.

  • Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV) Machines: A great option for those with central sleep apnea or complex cases.

  • Different Mask Styles: Some people simply do better with a new mask design. For instance, full-face masks are often better for mouth breathers.

Sleep tech has come a long way—it’s okay to upgrade when something better fits your needs!

💡 Extra Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your CPAP

Some real-world strategies I've seen work wonders:

  • Use heated humidification to reduce nasal or mouth dryness that can cause mouth breathing.

  • Stick to a steady sleep schedule and avoid alcohol before bed.

  • Monitor your sleep data—many CPAP machines offer detailed reports—to spot patterns or problems.

  • Explore CPAP accessories that improve comfort and performance. You can learn more about this in our guide to the top CPAP accessories for better sleep and comfort.

Even just a few nights off your machine can set your progress back, so consistency really matters.

🩺 When to Talk to a Sleep Specialist for Ongoing Issues

If you’ve made some changes and things still aren’t improving, reach out to a sleep doctor. They can:

  • Reassess your original sleep study results

  • Rule out other forms of sleep apnea.

  • Recommend alternate therapies

  • Help you customize your CPAP plan to fit your personal needs

You can also revisit the question: Do CPAP Machines Stop Snoring and Improve Sleep Quality? to better understand your options.

Don’t Let Snoring Win—Try MouthShield

Snoring with CPAP doesn't mean your therapy has failed. It just means your setup could use a  little tweaking. Adjusting pressure, improving mask fit, addressing mouth leaks, or upgrading your equipment can make a big difference.

Sometimes, the simplest changes have the biggest impact. Tools like Mouth Shield can help seal the deal—literally—and keep you breathing quietly through the night. Explore Mouth Shield for comfort and better sleep with your CPAP.

You deserve restful, snore-free nights. You've got this!

 Pro Tip: A small switch can make a big difference— Mouth Shield helps you breathe quietly through the night by sealing your lips and boosting CPAP comfort.

Mouth Shield 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still snore while using a CPAP machine?

Yes. CPAP therapy is designed to reduce or eliminate snoring by keeping your airway open, but issues like air leaks, mouth breathing, or low pressure settings can cause snoring to persist.

Is it normal to have mask leaks with CPAP?

Some minor leaks are common, but noticeable leaks (e.g., whistling, dry mouth, shifting mask) can reduce CPAP effectiveness and lead to snoring. A better mask fit or using a tool like MouthShield can help create a better seal.

Can mouth breathing affect CPAP success?

Definitely. Breathing through your mouth can bypass the positive airway pressure, allowing snoring to return. MouthShield can help keep your mouth gently closed during sleep, especially if you're not using a full-face mask.

When should I talk to a sleep specialist?

If snoring continues even after trying adjustments—like increasing pressure, switching masks, or using accessories—it's time to consult a sleep doctor. They can reevaluate your therapy or suggest alternative treatments like BiPAP or ASV.

What CPAP accessories can help stop snoring?

Try:

  • Heated humidifiers to reduce dryness

  • Mask liners for comfort and seal

  • Chin straps or MouthShield to reduce mouth leaks

References

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