Goofproof wrote:49er wrote:chunkyfrog wrote:The real scams are alternative treatments.
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We KNOW that cpap/apap works--end of story.
CF,
Pap therapy does not work for everyone in spite of their best efforts. To say that alternative treatments like dental devices, sleep apnea surgeries like the Inspire Procedure and MMA advancement surgery don't work is more about your biases than looking at the facts. It also a scare tactic than can prevent people from looking at necessary alternatives that they desperately need to prevent further decline from sleep apnea.
Of course, everyone should start with pap therapy and do whatever it takes to make it work. Even reputable sleep apnea surgeons will advise that. And when I investigated the Inspire Procedure, which I didn't qualify for, unfortunately, I don't think I would have been considered unless I had tried pap therapy or used a dental device for a least 6 months.
But the question is how many does someone keep trying before moving on to other methods particularly if it is clear they have done everything possible to optimize their therapy? One, five, ten, twenty, thirty?
That's the Problem: Best Efforts! Most of the ones that fail using XPAP, play at making a Best Effort, but in reality their mindset is De-Nile. Others get caught up in climbing the ladder of more complex XPAPs, that are more difficult to set up correctly, in the end making it harder to find your own Sweet Spot. Many want instant cures, even though they spent over ten years under Sleep Apnea, there are no magic pills, finding what works for you is up to you, it requires effort on your part, but for many Mind Set is the biggest thing that must be overcome, an possible the most difficult!
All I can say about, most of XPAP failure is caused by NOT making a BEST EFFORT. XPAP failure syndrome, is mostly mind over matter, many as so driven that they can't do something, they train their mind that they can't. A sure way to fail at anything you try, don't TRY, DO! Jim
Agree.
This forum is proof as to how many people have ineffective PAP treatment. Only some are willing to make the effort and learn to manage their treatment.
Based on my own experience, the experiences of friends, and following this forum, I think PAP fall into two camps.
Some have no issues. The pressure works, no pain from the nasal mask, no mask leaking issue, no mouth leaking issue. Everything works as planned. The doctor provided the script, the DME provided a machine and mask, the patient responded favorably. All are happy. The patient remains ignorant but that is OK since treatment is working.
The second camp has problems. The doctor only understands pressure, the DME only understands what equipment manufacturers state, and the patient is ignorant. This cycle of change-without-progress can spin for years. The only way to break the cycle is either finding a doctor or DME that has a firsthand understanding of the challenges or the patient finally takes charge and learns. That is where this forum helps so many.