Newby - Observations

Greetings All!

I've been on CPAP since July 2016. While it did take some getting used to, it has made a huge difference in my life. I first started out with a nasal pillow mask after doing a take home sleep study. My doctor then ordered a full sleep study. I treated it like I was at a hotel and had a great RT observing me while I slept. The results were that I was a mouth breather so I needed to switch to a full face mask. I started out with the F10 and got used to it. Then when it was time to get a new mask, I switched to the F20 which was way more comfortable. Each night when I am putting on the mask, I think that I am like a jet pilot. It helps convince myself that it alright to put on the mask, In the very beginning I was very intimidated with the full face mask, but soon got over it. Due to being diabetic and getting a chemo shot every 6 months, I get up almost like clockwork at about every hour during the night to go to the restroom. Prior to the CPAP machine, this was my norm and still is for nightly sleeping. I also had some hesitation with using the full face mask as at first it felt like I would "drown" as I had no air and also it sometimes felt like the mask they put on you to out you to sleep before a major surgery. I did have some heart surgery some 15 years ago so I know what those surgery masks that the gas passer puts on you to make you sleepy. Just as with any change in your life, it takes time to get used to it but you can overcome it, eventually.

In lurking around this forum I have noticed a lot of advice being given to all. This is a great place to share ones experiences with the CPAP life. As with all things, one has to realize that things that work for some may not always work for others. That being said, if you try something new, give it time. I've known friends that have tried going on CPAP therapy and just hated it or refused it. Sometimes I think we have a preconceived notion about things being more negative than what they really are. While I can't tell you what will work best for you in your situation, I can share with you what worked for me as a way to show you that it can work, you just have to find the best solution for what works for you. Here is a good thing to think about; Go to a car lot, there will probably be several models of the same car but all are different colors, different features, possibly even different prices. All are different. Such is everything in life, every person's "cure" for CPAP will be different. Find what is best for you.

Thank YOU... these words mean so much to a newbie like me (just 2 nights in).

Welcome and thanks for sharing. New here as well - 25 days into treatment and still getting acclimated. Seems I'm finally comfortable enough with the mask that I'm (stomach) sleeping more soundly, and, thanks in part to settings recommendations and advice from good people here, my AHI continues to drop. I'm not really feeling more rested, but no more snoring (partner says high five), and no more morning headaches. Chances are that I'm at least slightly more agreeable first thing in the morning.

Welcome to the forum all 3 of you!
Great to see some positive and optimistic first or early posts and glad that you're getting some useful information here.
It has really helped me here personally to try and optimize and take control of my therapy so glad you are on that journey. Keep learning, teaching and sharing!
Good luck to you all.