Aching Lungs / Ribs

[Wheatley]

Hi
I have had a CPAP machine for approx 4 weeks and I wake up during the night/early morning with my what I can only describe as aching ribs ? I cannot get back to sleep - it goes away after an hour when I am up and about
Is this normal ????????????

[James @ Intus]

Normal is a big word but it's not entirely uncommon. I guess it's because your lungs and rib cage are doing what they haven't been doing for years, that's inhaling decent amounts of air and moving the chest accordingly.

Those who have mentioned it before either got rid of that sensation automatically, because the body got used to it or over time they found that the pressure was too high so they got it reduced, after which the problem went away.

[Wheatley]

Normal is a big word but it's not entirely uncommon. I guess it's because your lungs and rib cage are doing what they haven't been doing for years, that's inhaling decent amounts of air and moving the chest accordingly.

Those who have mentioned it before either got rid of that sensation automatically, because the body got used to it or over time they found that the pressure was too high so they got it reduced, after which the problem went away.

Thanks for a quick reply !!

[James @ Intus]

As it's basically inflammation, your usual painkiller (nothing too heavy required I'd imagine) may help you out. But check with your consultant.