about ready to quit

[kell24]

I'm a somewhat new CPAP user (about 2 months) and am about ready to just return it. I have a Respironics Wisp mask and since I started wearing it I have suffered major sinus issues to the point that I sometimes cannot wear the mask. I contacted my assigned Respiratory Therapist and her solution was to turn up the humidifier. Of course I had already tried that and it made it worse, but that was her only solution except saline spray. I just had my followup appt with the doctor and she suggested a full face mask. I contacted the therapist who says I'm not eligible for another month and a half. My apnea index is way down by wearing a mask but the headaches, sinus pain, and other issues are almost worse than not sleeping. Doctors solution is sleep longer, get a new mask, saline spray, take naps. Still tired can barely drag myself out of bed. Work 8 hrs with 45 minute commute each way (who has time for a nap!) and my dentist isnt thrilled about the dry teeth and gums. Any suggestions cause I have about reached the end of my rope?

[Janknitz]

Welcome, Kell!

The wisp does tend to pinch the nose at just the spot to cause sinus issues.

Unfortunately you tried and tried, and because of your efforts you went past the thirty day return period that manufacturers give to replace a CPAP mask. A good DME would work with you anyway, to help you get another mask, but your DME (like most) couldn't care less so you are stuck.

If you have a FF mask in mind and can tell us the size (most manufacturers have sizing guides you can print out) you can order it from an online supplier like our hosts. Be sure to get return insurance in case it does not fit.

Some of us have barely used masks around and may be willing to send one to you for the cost of shipping.

It would be a shame to give up on your health because of a stupid DME. They aren't worth it!

[Julie]

Try not using the humidifier at all for a few nights - it may help or solve your problem. It's not necessary to use it at all if ambient humidity is high enough and adding more can cause congestion and cold symptoms.

[jab1972]

I too am just coming off some sinus trouble. My ENT strongly urged me to use a neti pot or similar sinus rinse twice a day. Even now that I'm past the acute problems, I'm still using it daily. You might give that a shot. It certainly helps me.

[icipher]

I think I might have a medium sized resmed quattro air or quattro FX at home that i believe is new. I'll double check and if I have it, i can ship it to you for nothing.

[gasp]

As you can see from my profile that I use the Neti Pot. You cannot use it if you are fully congested, but if you can breath through each nostril then you can use it. Be certain to warm distilled water just a bit so that you aren't using cold or too warm water. You'll get the hang of it. There are tons of youtube videos out there with people showing how it's done.

Also, I agree the mask is key.

[kell24]

Thanks for the responses. I was looking at some online sellers for masks. I was told I needed a prescription. I'm leaving a message with my doctor to get copies. I have used a neti pot in the past so I'll give that a try. I called before the 30 day return window was up and was told to "keep trying." I know I wear a s/m wisp mask but other than that no idea. Was a little leary of forums but you are all very helpful#

[Wulfman...]

Thanks for the responses. I was looking at some online sellers for masks. I was told I needed a prescription. I'm leaving a message with my doctor to get copies. I have used a neti pot in the past so I'll give that a try. I called before the 30 day return window was up and was told to "keep trying." I know I wear a s/m wisp mask but other than that no idea. Was a little leary of forums but you are all very helpful#

Well, yeah.........the thing is to keep trying, but with some variations. The vast majority of us have learned to do various tweaks over time to find what works best for us.
Make sure you get the copies of your prescription(s) for future use.
Many of us have used the sponsor of this forum.......CPAP.COM.

Welcome to the forum. There's a wealth of information here if you use the "Search" function (above).

Good luck.


Den

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[gasp]

Thanks for the responses. I was looking at some online sellers for masks. I was told I needed a prescription. I'm leaving a message with my doctor to get copies. I have used a neti pot in the past so I'll give that a try. I called before the 30 day return window was up and was told to "keep trying." I know I wear a s/m wisp mask but other than that no idea. Was a little leary of forums but you are all very helpful#

I'd almost rather go broke buying masks to try than go to a bad DME, but if you can find a good one . . . They usually employ a specialist who can let you try a good number of masks under cpap pressure while reclining in a chair.

When I first started out I found that very helpful.

That same DME should be helpful regarding which masks have a 30 day warranty.

[rockncountry101]

I'm in the same boat. Although my AHI was too low to even get insurance approval. My AHI was only 4.7 and 5.0 was required. However, I had a high RDI and that's what got me the prescription. Not to mention that I couldn't ever get into REM when I was at the sleep clinic. But we just have to keep encouraging one another. This is not easy. That's why some reports say 50 percent of people give it up. But it's worth it. I'm also looking at the full face mask as well. I've got my eyes on the Quattro mask. Don't give up and keep us updated!

[kell24]

The Quattro is just over $100 on Amazon if that helps.