Why Does My CPAP Make Me Burp? And How to Fix It

ByJeremy Updated on


Why Does My CPAP Make Me Burp?

If you’ve ever woken up feeling like a human balloon—bloated, gassy, and burping uncontrollably after using your CPAP machine—you’re not alone.

This frustrating phenomenon is called aerophagia (literally “air swallowing”), and it’s a common side effect of CPAP therapy.

In this article, we’ll dive into why your CPAP might be turning you into a burp machine, the science behind aerophagia, and actionable tips to resolve it.

What is Aerophagia?

Aerophagia occurs when air from your CPAP machine enters your esophagus and stomach instead of staying in your airways. This excess air can cause:

  • Burping or belching
  • Bloating and abdominal discomfort
  • Flatulence
  • A feeling of fullness, even on an empty stomach

While harmless, aerophagia can make CPAP therapy feel unbearable. Let’s break down why it happens.

Why Your CPAP Causes Burping: 6 Key Reasons

1. High Pressure Settings

CPAP machines deliver pressurized air to keep your airways open. If your pressure setting (measured in cm/H2O) is too high, it can force air into your stomach, especially if you swallow or your throat relaxes during sleep.

  • Fix: Ask your sleep specialist to adjust your pressure. A pressure ramp feature (gradually increasing pressure as you fall asleep) or switching to auto-adjusting CPAP (APAP) may help.

2. Mask Leaks or Poor Fit

A loose or ill-fitting mask can cause you to breathe through your mouth unconsciously, increasing air intake.

  • Fix: Try a different mask style (e.g., nasal pillows, full-face) and ensure a snug fit. Use a mask liner to reduce leaks.

3. Sleeping Position

Lying flat on your back increases the likelihood of air traveling into your stomach.

4. Nasal Congestion

If your nose is stuffy, you’re more likely to breathe through your mouth, which can lead to swallowing air.

  • Fix: Use a saline nasal spray, humidifier, or heated tubing to reduce congestion.

5. Swallowing Air While Awake

Some users unintentionally gulp air when first adjusting to CPAP due to anxiety or unfamiliarity with the machine.

  • Fix: Practice relaxed breathing during the day while wearing your mask.

6. Underlying GERD (Acid Reflux)

GERD weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for air to enter the stomach.

  • Fix: Treat reflux with diet changes, antacids, or consult a gastroenterologist.

How to Stop CPAP Burping: 7 Solutions That Work

1. Adjust Your CPAP Pressure

  • Work with your doctor to lower your pressure setting or switch to bilevel therapy (BiPAP), which uses lower pressure during exhalation.

2. Optimize Mask Fit

  • Schedule a mask fitting session with your CPAP supplier. Popular leak-proof masks include the ResMed AirFit F30i (hybrid mask) or Philips DreamWisp (nasal cradle).

3. Try a Chin Strap

  • A chin strap keeps your mouth closed if you’re a mouth-breather, reducing air swallowing.

4. Use a Heated Humidifier

  • Dry air from CPAP can irritate your throat, causing you to swallow. A humidifier adds moisture, making therapy more comfortable.

5. Experiment with Sleeping Positions

  • Elevate your upper body by 30–45 degrees (use a wedge pillow) to keep air in your lungs, not your stomach.

6. Modify Your Diet

  • Avoid carbonated drinks, gas-producing foods (beans, broccoli), and large meals before bed.

7. Strengthen Your Diaphragm

When to See a Doctor

If lifestyle tweaks don’t resolve aerophagia, consult your sleep specialist. They may recommend:

  • Switching to a different PAP therapy (e.g., ASV for central sleep apnea).
  • Testing for GERD or hiatal hernias.
  • Prescription medications to reduce gas/bloating.

Real-Life Success Stories

Case 1: Mark, 52
Mark struggled with aerophagia for months until his doctor lowered his pressure from 12 cm/H2O to 9 cm/H2O and added a heated humidifier. “The burping stopped almost overnight,” he says.

Case 2: Sarah, 34
Sarah’s aerophagia was linked to undiagnosed GERD. After treating her acid reflux with omeprazole and switching to a nasal mask, her symptoms vanished.

FAQ: Quick Answers

Q: Can CPAP cause long-term stomach issues?
A: No, aerophagia is temporary and resolves with adjustments.

Q: Is burping with CPAP a sign of a faulty machine?
A: Unlikely—it’s usually due to pressure or mask fit.

Q: Should I stop using CPAP if I have aerophagia?
A: No! Untreated sleep apnea is far riskier. Work with your doctor to troubleshoot.

Final Thoughts

Aerophagia is a solvable problem—don’t let burping derail your CPAP journey. By tweaking your pressure, mask, and sleep habits, you can enjoy the life-saving benefits of CPAP without the side effects.

Pro Tip: Track symptoms in a sleep diary to pinpoint triggers.

Jeremy

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