Comfort and side effects
CPAP Pressure Feels Too Low or Not Enough Air: What to Do
Feeling like you cannot get enough air on CPAP (air hunger) is often caused by a long ramp at low starting pressure, a mask leak or a blocked filter. If symptoms such as snoring or tiredness come back, your clinician needs to review your pressure, because you should not raise it yourself.
Signs
- Feeling starved for air or gasping
- Pulling the mask off to breathe
- Snoring with the mask on
- Waking up tired, or old symptoms returning
- A rising AHI in your app
Common causes
- Low ramp start
- Ramp begins at a low pressure and builds up. Some people feel short of air during that time.
- Mask leak
- Leaking air lowers the pressure that reaches your airway. ResMed notes leaks mean you are not getting all the pressure you need.
- Blocked filter or tubing
- A clogged filter or kinked tube restricts airflow. The AirSense 11 user guide lists a blocked air filter and blocked tubing among device messages.
- Your pressure need may have changed
- Weight gain, alcohol and sedatives can change the pressure you need, the Sleep Foundation notes. Only your clinician can decide on a change.
Fixes to try, easiest first
Shorten or turn off the ramp
If you feel air hungry only at the start of the night, try a shorter ramp time or Auto ramp, which on ResMed machines increases pressure once it senses you are asleep. Ramp is usually a patient comfort setting.
Check your filter and tubing
Look at the air filter and replace it if it is dirty. Check the tube for kinks, holes or water, and make sure it is connected firmly at both ends.
Fix your mask seal
Refit the mask lying down with the air on and run Mask Fit if your machine has it. A good seal keeps your pressure where it should be.
Breathe through your nose with your mouth closed
If you wear a nasal mask, opening your mouth lets air escape and can feel like there is no pressure at all. A chinstrap or full face mask can help.
Track your symptoms and data
Note your AHI, leak and how you feel for a week. Bring this to your clinician.
Ask your clinician to review your pressure with your clinician
Do not raise your pressure yourself. Your clinician can review your data, change the prescription, switch to auto mode or order a new titration study.
Call your sleep clinician if you keep feeling short of air, if snoring, gasping or daytime sleepiness return, or if your AHI rises over several nights. Call 911 for severe shortness of breath, chest pain, or bluish lips.
Supplies that can help
The air inlet filter keeps dust and lint out of the machine and your airway; it is a cheap part that needs regular replacement.
A soft strap that supports the jaw to help keep the mouth closed, used mainly with nasal and nasal pillow masks to reduce mouth leaks.
The plain hose between the machine and the mask; it wears out and should be replaced on a regular schedule.
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Mask types this applies to
Frequently asked questions
Why does my CPAP feel like it is not giving me enough air?
The most common reasons are a long ramp at low pressure, a leaking mask and a dirty filter. Check those first, then call your clinician if it continues.
Can I increase my CPAP pressure myself?
No. Your pressure is prescribed. Changing it without guidance can cause side effects or leave your apnea undertreated. Your clinician can adjust it if needed.
What is auto ramp?
On ResMed machines, Auto ramp keeps a low pressure until the machine senses you have fallen asleep, then increases to your prescribed pressure. Many people find it more comfortable than a fixed timer.
Sources
Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error