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You might be allergic to some of the gases that were used in the manufacturing process. If you could soak it in a vinegar/water solution for several hours and then let it air dry in the open for a few days it should help. Which mask are you using?

You do not want to use any oils on your face prior to putting your mask on. If you are that might be contributing to the problem as well.

Speak with your doctor. I have severe allergies and started doing the same thing and the insurance allowed me to have a different mask (with a doctor's script telling them that it was a medical necessity) so I could alternate between the two. That helped a lot. Now I have a mask that barely touches my face and no problems so far.

I have been on my apap since August of 2007. I have severe apnea and am lucky in that my pressure is a range from 9 to 15.

I wouldn't trust a pill, or for that matter go to the expense of surgery as I don't mind the cpap machine at all. It is the least invasive and doesn't alter our bodies like some of the mentioned treatment options.

Which machine do you have? It should be written on the machine. I have an M series Respironics autopap. I love it, although mine has cflex and not aflex.