New Problem for Long Term CPAP User

[Bullman54]

I am looking for some advice on a problem I am just recently suffering from.

I have been using a CPAP for about 25 years. Just recently I have been getting the feeling that I am suffocating and not getting enough oxygen. I can lift my mask and take a breath and it seems that I can get the oxygen I need. Any idea what is going on?

Thanks in advance for any ideas you may have.

[scrapper]

Please register with your equipment, pressures, etc for more assistance........

It could be any number of things including the obvious--you truly are not getting enough oxygen. It could be that you need a pressure adjustment. It could be that something else is fatiguing and stressing you, thereby causing increased apnea events......

I know this answer is really a "non-answer", but more info is needed for anyone to specifically offer any further suggestions.

And finally, welcome! We need long-term, successful hosers to share successes and fixes over the past 25 years.

[Sheriff Buford]

I agree with Scrapper.... why don't you "bump up" your oxygen? Maybe your air obstruction has gotten worse and you need more oxygen. Sheriff

[bap40]

I agree with the other posters here. I would bump up my pressure a bit to see if it makes a difference. Also it might be worth having your machine checked just to make sure it is blowing at the proper pressure.

[Bullman54]

Well guys, I had to lower my pressure and change masks to improve the problem. I went from 15 to 12 and turned on EPR. The Optilife mask has no backflow relief so the EPR would not work with that mask. I changed to a gel mask and the problem improved. I think it might be medications related since the problem may have started with a new med. I have no problem with O2 uptake when I am working out or during aerobic activity. Any other ideas?

[So Well]

Most important: What does your data say? AHI? Leak rate?