NEwbie first day

[Just another Dreamer]

hello all,
I am a newbie. Just received my CPAP machine today and when I first put it on struggled to breath at all, but then I tightened the straps and watched tv and that helped. FIrst night wearing it to bed tonight, hope I have more energy tomorrow fingers crossed, safe to say I have low expectations as to not be disappointed, I realize it may take a while. Nice to meet you all, and not feel alone with this thing called sleep apnea.

[Greekjim]

The first few days will take some getting use to. I got my first machine about a month ago and would wake up with my mask off laying right next to me, I felt like I was a magician in my sleep.

[rohdej]

A good first step! Join the forum. Put your equipment in.
As far as the not being able to breath, if the starting pressure is to low it may not vent all of your expelled breath. If you have the ramp setting enabled try turning it off.
If you want better help, help us help you, join the forum put your equipment in.

[Pugsy]

Often the DMEs (who supply the equipment) encourage newbies to use the ramp function to start out with low pressures so people won't be so overwhelmed with the pressure.
Sometimes using the ramp helps things but sometimes it creates problems with difficulty breathing. While we won't suffocate at 4 cm (the ramp starting pressure) it can sure feel like it sometimes for some people.
If you have problems and feel like you are suffocating and you are using the ramp...you might try turning it off or if your starting pressure just overwhelms you ...the ramp pressure can be adjusted.
Come back here and tell us your equipment and the settings and we can try to help.

[chunkyfrog]

I found ramp to be useful when I had an Elite (full data, single pressure cpap);
But it was a nuisance with the Autosets.

[vlad2075]

Welcome! It took me about a week to get used to it, but once you do you'll be in love with rewarding sleep.

My best advice, be patient and don't be afraid to tweak the settings until you get it just right.