Need advice: getting started with CPAP

[Anavesh]

I have sleep apnea and the last time I tried a CPAP machine I was not able to tolerate the darned thing.

Again my doctor (new due to my relocation) wants me to have another sleep study (at the sleep center this time rather than just at home like I did 3 years ago).

The last time I figured I could save money on the machine by just buying one online.

Questions:
Am I kidding myself about cost savings?
Where do I look for a trustworthy seller?
How do I determine what I want/need?

Thanks in advance for your input!

PS. I figure I may be able to purchase a machine instead of paying for the sleep study. Might be a wash financially.

[realshelby]

You have found the site that can help!

First I can tell you that if I had to put up with what the Doctor gave me to start with, I too might not have done so well with my therapy. There are LOTS of different masks, and each works better for some than others. Find that one for you and it really helps. More on that later...

Yes, you can buy used or new equipment. If you know the right place you can get new with no prescription. So, that solves that.

LSAT, a member here, sells good used cpap machines. Has a good reputation. Has to be honest or he would be out of here fast!

https://www.secondwindcpap.com/ is an excellent source when shopping for cpap machines!

https://www.apneaairsystems.com/ is another really good source for machines and masks!

If you KNOW you have sleep apnea, and especially if paying out of pocket, I would try to listen to those here that know this stuff and take on getting a machine and mask and see how it goes.

[ChicagoGranny]

How do I determine what I want/need?

That's easy once the diagnosis is known. Were you diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea? (I ask because there is also central and complex apnea.)

Do you have a copy of your CPAP prescription? If not, get a copy from the doctor's records office. In the U.S., you have a legal right to a copy.

Yes, there are easy ways to buy a good CPAP from internet suppliers. Forum members can help once they know your diagnosis.

[D.H.]

How long ago did you try CPAP? There have been many improvements and refinements in recent years!