CPap Mystery Problems....

deb2024@cox.net · Post by **deb2024@cox.net** » Wed Jan 05, 2005 1:52 pm

Hi,

I have had a Remstar CFlex CPAP machine**, for 3 months. It has really improved the quality of my life. I am 100% compliant with my use of this machine.

My problem is this:
When I am on my back with two pillows under my head (I started out with one pillow) I am able to breathe fine with the CPAP machine. If I lay on my side or turn my head, I feel like I can not breathe.

I have tried:

Taking the machine to the supplier to have the pressure checked (it was ok).

Having the supplier come to the house and check out everything I have been doing.

Making sure the filters were clean.

Making sure there is the appropriate level of water in the humidifier.

Making sure there are no kinks or holes in the hose.

New Hose, just in case.

Making sure the mask fits properly (it is a gel and I have conformed it to fit my face, per manuf. instructions).

Making sure my nose was not stopped up during the night (eucalyptus oil -2 drops-in the humidifier water+nasal spray before sleep).

Adjusting the mask ad nauseum.

In addition to all of the above, the first two months I had the machine I had absolutely NO problem and it was a dream!!! Having known good quality sleep, it is even more frustrating to have this problem.

I know that something must have changed, but as far as I can realize there is nothing changed.

ANY advice you may have to offer will be greatly appreciated!!!

Thanks SOOO much,
Deb

** Specifications: Remstar Plus with CFlex. Ramp @ 4, Pressure @ 8. CFlex is 1 (or otherwise flex from 8 to 7).

wading thru the muck! · Post by **wading thru the muck!** » Wed Jan 05, 2005 2:10 pm

Hi Deb,

I not sure why you spent all the time and effort to check out all your equipment if you can still breathe fine on your back. Sounds to me like when you turn your head to the side something in your airway is getting pinched. Try going back to one pillow or no pillows and a neck roll. Or if you like buy one of those contour pillows that allow you to keep your airway open. My guess is you need to keep your neck straight and not rotated side to side.

Congratulations on being 100% compliant. That shows your committed to making cpap work for you.

I hope you can solve the mystery.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Wed Jan 05, 2005 3:32 pm

When you turn on your side does the airflow from the mask feel reduced? Does it blow at the same pressure but leak?