Hi...I just wanted to introduce myself...I have been lurking around for awhile, learning a lot, and very happy that not only am I finally rested, I have a resource to help me get the best therapy possible.
I resisted CPAP therapy for sooo long...about 10 years! All I heard was how awful the machines were, no one could tolerate them, not even my dad (I never even saw his machine--he tried it and gave it back all within the same week). I had terrible visions of tall green oxygen tanks and bulky equipment. Sad to say...I was so resistant, that I didn't even research it. I just said nope after the sleep study and didn't look back.
Fast forward 10 years...put on extra 50 pounds, husband staying up to listen to me NOT breathe, and snoring the roof off. I had to nap every day to get through the evening, fell asleep as soon as I would sit down. I was sooo miserable. Something had to change. I talked to my doctor, and a new sleep study was scheduled. Of course, sleep apneas, low oxygen saturation...the whole deal. I still didn't read up on it though...I just blindly followed the docs recommendations and took home my sleek little machine not knowing that so many other options were available. I still didn't want to look like an alien...and it was so hard to put on that head gear. I had a lot of anxiety and mentally had to gear up so I didn't panic while trying to breathe. Now it is no trouble at all...love that RAMP!
I started reading the manuals (can you say geek!) and then I started looking on the web for more info...because I was told that after the initial reminders were programmed by the DME I would have to track the rest of the deadlines...for the rest of my life...with the calendar. That I didn't like...It couldn't be that hard to program reminders into a little machine. It wasn't and isn't and I can do that much at least! I even have a copy of the little clinician's pamphlet.
Now I am looking into getting a better machine. I may have to wait...but I am checking with my doc soon. I really want the benefit of monitoring that the better machines provide...and I am sure my doctor would too. Just not sure if the insurance is up for a new machine just yet!
I have lost 20 pounds since July...workout several times a week...naps are history...and life is fun again. I see from this forum that so many others love their machines as much as I do....I got my life back. Thanks for letting me ramble on....and thanks for all the support and information!
Hello! Life is good again!
Hello! Life is good again!
"I have always imagined that paradise will be a kind of library."--Jorge Luis Borges
Welcome Bookwyrm,
I really enjoyed reading your post. I think you'll find many if not most of us go into denial about the condition for many years till we reach the "walking dead" stage.
I am so pleased you are finding life enjoyable again. As a fellow bookworm I enjoy being able to read without falling asleep again (sometimes)!
This forum does give great information and encouragement doesn't it!
regards
Di
I really enjoyed reading your post. I think you'll find many if not most of us go into denial about the condition for many years till we reach the "walking dead" stage.
I am so pleased you are finding life enjoyable again. As a fellow bookworm I enjoy being able to read without falling asleep again (sometimes)!
This forum does give great information and encouragement doesn't it!
regards
Di
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"I'll get by with a little help from my friends" - The Beatles
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"I'll get by with a little help from my friends" - The Beatles
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- sharon1965
- Posts: 1232
- Joined: Thu Jan 18, 2007 4:59 pm
- Location: Windsor, Ontario, Canada