What issue may occur due to nasal irritation when using a nasal mask?

When using a nasal mask for noninvasive ventilation, one of the potential issues that may arise is nasal irritation and rhinorrhea. This occurs because the mask sits on the face and can cause pressure and friction on the nasal passages. Prolonged contact or improper fit can lead to discomfort and irritation of the sensitive nasal mucosa. Rhinorrhea, or a runny nose, can also occur as a response to this irritation. This symptom can affect patient comfort and may lead some patients to be less compliant with their therapy due to the unpleasant sensations associated with nasal irritation. Therefore, recognizing the risk of nasal irritation and its consequences is important for clinicians in order to help manage these side effects effectively.