Survey: Nasal congestion can impact CPAP adherence

SAN FRANCISCO – Nasal congestion is a common but under-discussed reason CPAP users cut therapy short or consider abandoning it altogether, according to a new patient survey from Allermi, a telehealth company that provides personalized prescription nasal sprays. Among 112 Allermi customers who use CPAP:

• 80% said nasal congestion made it more difficult to wear their mask consistently; and
• 56% said it was significant enough that they had considered stopping CPAP therapy before starting Allermi

“Nasal congestion is one of the most common complaints we hear from patients who use CPAP, and it is rarely treated as part of the therapy itself,” said Dr. Shuba Iyengar, chief medical officer and co-founder of Allermi. “When patients tell us in their own words that they can finally keep the mask on, that is a signal worth taking seriously, and it is why we are investing in more rigorous research with sleep medicine partners.”

Survey respondents were asked to recall their CPAP use before and after adding Allermi to their nightly routine. Comparing their recollection of both periods:

• The share of respondents who reported wearing the mask all night rose from 16% to 38%
• The share who said they remove their mask most nights fell from 29% to 11%
• 85% said they would recommend Allermi to a friend who uses CPAP and struggles with congestion

Results are based on an online survey conducted Aug. 28, 2026, to Sept. 2, 2026, of 112 verified Allermi customers who reported using CPAP. Participation was voluntary and respondents received compensation for their time.