Thanks to you all

I'm a new Cpap user and reading the info on this site has been very encouraging and has helped me more than I can say. Two questions however, how long does it take to really feel rested? I feel better during the day but still slow down in the evening. I realize that 6 and a half hours of sleep probably has something to do with it but that's all the time I have. And is there a trick to fighting the panic feeling of having something over my nose or does that just take time? The mask is comfortable and life is getting better everyday. Thanks to you all.

Hi,

I'm pretty sure I'm not the best person to answer your questions. How new are you to this treatment? I just started two months ago. During the day I do feel better than before. But I do get plenty tired. But I may be the one to blame. Ever since the holidays I've been staying up later than before and getting up early, only 4 or 5 stupidly short hours. I really shouldn't be doing that. (but it is at least proof I'm more awake than before, huh?) Also, I've been struggling with the mask and machine at my prescribed high pressures. I also think the mask is comfortable. But it does seem not real wearing it.

Everyone, including my doctor, says it will take time getting adjusted (if he's right and the mask and the settings of the bipap aren't the problem), which seemed reasonable since I now know I've had this condition a long time. Lots of people, including my brother, have quit using their machines because they wouldn't stick with it. So I'm willing to stick it out and hope for the best. But of course, that doesn't mean some change in masks or machine might not help some people.

I'm hoping it's just a matter of getting used to it, for you. Don't give up. And keep checking into the forum, for better advice than I could ever give you. There are lots of helpful and encouraging people here.

Good luck.

I've been using miy cpap for 5 years now. And my cm is 18, trust me it take's a bit of getting use to. but once you start to feel better. you'll have no problem adjusting. It just takes a little getting use to haveing the mask on and the pressure of the machine. Even my wife got use to it. she can't go to sleep unless she hears my machine

I guess the answer to both questions is it just takes time!
I've been a user for a month and I'm just beginning to feel an improvement. The first 10 days were a nightmare, rarely got more than 2 hours uninterrupted sleep and felt really uncomfortable with the mask on, but I was using a cheap, temporary mask provided by the doc for the first week. I then got a better mask and from there it got easier, and I started to feel better in weeks 3 and 4. Still get a little tired from time to time, but nothing like before.
I guess I got lucky with mask selection. Read around a bit and then went for a Resmed Virage Vista, mainly because it doesn't have the forehead bit!
I still find the sensation of not being able to breathe through the mouth (or talk!) a little strange, and do wake up from time to time because of a little nasal congestion, but I'm gradually getting used to it and the benefit outweighs the strangeness.
Good luck