Longtime APNEA sufferer, new to the site

scttp · Post by **scttp** » Mon Mar 14, 2005 5:08 pm

I was diagnosed with sleep apnea about 5 years ago. I was given a CPAP machine to use, but found I had trouble using it so it wound up under the bead for about 4 years and 11 months. Now I've decided to give it another try, and have found it to be a better experience. I can't explain why, but I'm sleeping better with it than I ever did before. I am starting to experience some of the typical problems though (skin iritation, air leakage) and last night for the first time in two weeks, I didn't have it on all night. I'm feeling it today.
Here's my questions at least for now...Should I consider getting a newer machine? The one I have is over 5 years old. I don't even see one like it on any CPAP web sites. Is the mask that covers the mouth and nose better than just covering the nose? I've already tried the pillows...didn't like that at all. Any advise I can get will only help, so please don't hold back...Thanks.

chrisp · Post by **chrisp** » Mon Mar 14, 2005 5:13 pm

Oh yes, please give one of the new auto units a try. And a new resmed mask as well. things have changed very much in the last 5 years.

Cheers,

Chris

LDuyer · Post by **LDuyer** » Mon Mar 14, 2005 5:16 pm

scttp,

Welcome!

Great that you've gotten back into your treatment and that it's working for you. Terrific news! My brother quit also, and I wish he would restart like you did.

I'm sure you'll get lots of responses to your question about the machine. As you see, many here really like the autopap. I have the bipap which is similar. If you could afford another, it might be nice to have two, with the current one as a backup or to travel with. Do you have a heated humidifier. That seems to help alot of people, sure helps me. Good luck!

Linda

limpy · Post by **limpy** » Mon Mar 14, 2005 5:19 pm

People will come behind me with more questions about your treatment history and specific trouble shooting. I'm not that good yet. What i have learned is here is the high end stuff...

APAP (Auto CPAPs)

Remstar Auto with CFlex https://www.cpap.com/productpage/1623

420E https://www.cpap.com/productpage/1540

CPAP Masks (since you don't like nasal pillows)

Activa https://www.cpap.com/productpage/767

Profile Lite https://www.cpap.com/productpage/276

The people who come back and say "yeah it's worked for me" are usually the ones with the best toys...good luck.

wading thru the muck! · Post by **wading thru the muck!** » Mon Mar 14, 2005 5:20 pm

scttp,

Welcome!

If you machine is working fine and you can tolerate the pressure there would be no reason for you to get a new machine right now. When did you try nasal pillows and which ones did you try? If you are having problems with skin irritation and mask leaks, a Full face mask won't be better,it will probably be worse. Is the mask you are using 5 years old also? If it is, that is what you should replace. Look at the Resmed Activa. Many of us on the forum are big fans of several nasal pillow interfaces, the Breeze, the Swift, and the new aura.If you have not tried any of these, they are worth taking a look at.

LDuyer · Post by **LDuyer** » Mon Mar 14, 2005 5:27 pm

limpy wrote:People will come behind me with more questions about your treatment history and specific trouble shooting. I'm not that good yet. What i have learned is here is the high end stuff...
..........
The people who come back and say "yeah it's worked for me" are usually the ones with the best toys...good luck.

Don't let limpy fool you..! Anyone who is nice and knowlegable (like limpy) enough to helpfully provide useful links and encouragement, is certainly a first-rate member of our forum!

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Mar 15, 2005 9:12 am

Thank you so much for the advise. I'm going to start my web research with your links today. Last night I made a few adjustments, and lo and behold I made it through the night with no interuptions!! No leaks!! SWEET!!
It's funny how much difference my life has been since getting back on this "horse". I haven't slept solid and through the night in over 7 years (I'm pretty sure I had this prior to my sleep study). Now I don't fall asleep on the way to work driving. I don't fall asleep at my desk. I can actually watch a movie that runs to 10:00pm (cst) and still be awake to see the ending. There's a whole new world for me!
I look forward to sharing my experiences with the forum, and hopefully I can help someone as you have offered to help me.

scttp · Post by **scttp** » Tue Mar 15, 2005 9:34 am

Still learning how yo use the forum

Longtime APNEA sufferer, new to the site

Longtime APNEA sufferer, new to the site

Excellent Input

Excellent Input was scttp