Newbie Questions

Hi Group-

Recently diagnosed with Sleep Apnea- I know it is weird to think, but I am actually relieved to find out why I have been feeling like I have lately. I'm sure I am not alone.

I haven't received the actual results yet of both studies- I am asking for that today. I am still waiting on the Sleep Doctor to call me and discuss the results of 2nd test and either ask me to visit him for consultation or give me prescription for CPAP. All I know is the sleep tech told me I do have it and I stopped breathing 42 times an hour or something like that. I'm confused because AHI research shows that is severe, but at my second sleep study the tech said what I had was mild. So I am not sure- I just know that I am not sleeping well. After reading this forum I am going to be better prepared for this journey and now asking a lot of questions.

Let me preface the next two questions with this statement- on my second sleep study with the CPAP machine I slept wonderfully with a nasal pillow mask with the machine set to a pressure of 5 (constant all night).

At my initial consultation my sleep doctor noticed that my tonsils were huge and could be contributing to my snoring and apnea (if I had it). Now I am 36 years old, in good health, and slightly overweight (5'10 and wear size 34 pant). I seem to gain weight around my neck however. My problem right now is if I should consider seeing an ENT to look at getting my tonsils out and whatever else they would do. I know my doctor may recommend that, but a few people I talked to said it didn't work for them. I would hate to proceed with surgery and waste my time and money, especially with a baby on the way. What are your experiences with this?

My next question I feel I know the answer to, but wanted to ask anyway. Would everyone still recommend a data collecting Apap machine (such as Airsense 10 Autoset with Humidifier or comparable) for my situation? In my mind I want the best and love the idea of data collection (I'm a researcher), but also don't want to spend extra $$ on something I don't need.

I know some of this is very specific to my situation, so whatever thoughts or comments you have I would appreciate it.

Thanks!

a) do NOT get the surgery - many people will tell you it's a waste of (painful) time.
b) absolutely DO get an Apap... if for no other reason than it's more likely you'll use it than not, and because it can be run in Cpap mode, but not vice versa.

Thank you Julie- straight and to the point.

By the way your cat in the profile pic looks very sweet. Unlike ours who I am thinking could be 100% bobcat or something.

Get that mask on as soon as possible.
When you take care of yourself, it is so much better for your baby.
Pregnancy is a very good reason to go for the sure thing as soon as possible.

I'd definitely recommend data collection and there are definitely more affordable choices than the airsense 10 Autoset. Respironics System One Remstar has data collection and it's a few hundred $ less expensive. It's not removable like the Airsense 10, but still...

Good advice from Julie.
I have always had severe allergies to scalpels.
If your doctor, DME or other medical professional tells you, you do not need a data capable machine, you need a new doctor, etc.
Without data neither you nor anyone else can determine if your therapy is effective, only how long your machine was on.

Chunkyfrog, I doubt the OP is pregnant since he indicated he is male, perhaps his wife is the pregnant one.

Thanks for all the replies- means a lot. I hope one day I can help someone new on this forum. I think I am going to be visiting a lot in the future.

You are correct - I myself am not pregnant, but my wife is with our first.

However:

Better sleep for me (thus being less cranky and have more energy when baby comes) - better for wife and baby
No snoring (thus better sleep for wife) - better for wife and baby
No snoring (thus wife comes back to sleep with me)- better for me! I like waking up and feeling the baby kick in her tummy.

I would still recommend the APAP capable machine and full data even if you do well with cpap at 5 cm right now.
You never know when or if something might change and that apap mode might come in handy.
Remember that the APAP capable machines are actually 2 machines in one as they have both cpap mode and apap mode available
(and the ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet for Her actually has another apap mode so it has 2 apap modes and cpap mode)
If using insurance...insurance pays the same for either cpap mode only or the apap capable machine...get the apap mode capable machine.

There are some people who find that apap mode comes in real handy. I found out that I need a lot more pressure in REM stage sleep than I need in other sleep stages and having apap mode was a real blessing for me when I first started my therapy. During non REM sleep my pressure would run 10 to 12 but during REM I would often see it up around 18 cm. It's a lot easier and nicer to use 10 to 12 most of the time and only have to use 16 to 18 for just a short period during the night.

Thank you all - I was able to work with my DME to get the machine and mask I wanted (AirSense 10 Autoset w/ heated hose and Airfit P10 mask).

I have to say that it was a joy to work with my DME- they explained everything to me very well and didn't try to sell me anything I didn't want or need. I bought the equipment at the same place I had my sleep studies so maybe that had something to do with it.

Nevertheless, if anyone is in the Houston area and wants a reference to a good provider (through insurance)- PM me.

On to the first night!!!!!