Time to get back to using CPAP

I started on CPAP about 3 years ago and was using it very faithfully until 2 years ago when I developed chronic autoimmune urticaria (hives). This condition has been so difficult to deal with that it took over my life. Meanwhile, using my cpap was just too much to handle because of the itching and swelling.

For a few months now I frequently wake up in the morning with my heart racing. There could be many causes for this... anxiety, thyroid, or my depression medication. But, I'm thinking it might be apnea related. So, I need to think about starting up CPAP again.

I'm concerned about the hose and filter being full of contaminants from just sitting. The co. I got it from hasn't talked to me about replacements I think because I haven't finished paying for the CPAP yet. (I've been making very small monthly payments all this time.) Any suggestions?

My next concern is related to my hives. One component of my hives is they crop up anywhere I have pressure on my body. I've had to resort to wearing only clothes that don't have elastic or anything that pushes on skin. Even though the mask I have probably creates the fewest pressure points it's still pretty significant. For the itching I use Gold Bond and other ointments that probably shouldn't get on my mask. So, any ideas?

talk to padacheek... she may have enough products to cover your entire mask.

Are you still using the Optilife Nasal pillow mask system? That particular mask has a lot of "stuff" on the face compared to some of the other nasal pillow masks. Perhaps a different mask would help limit skin contact. There are several other nasal pillow mask systems available. You can look at the one I use by clicking on the link in my equipment profile.

I added the Padacheek's barrel cozy. http://www.padacheek.com/PACSwiftII_Barrel_cozy.html
and for side strap check protectors she has covers for many brands.