Apnea, no insurance, need advice

[Rogue Uvula]

Assuming you would like (can afford) a new unit. I don't think you need to forge an Rx.

If you are in the Atlanta area, I happen to have just bought a brand new one (of whatever model you want ). Since I am happy with my current model, I would be happy to sell it to you at cost (PM me).
If you are not nearby, hopefully there is someone in your area willing to do the same, but you'll need to tell us your location.
As far as I know, there is no rule against an individual selling their gear!

Cheers,
Rogue

[Mtnviewer]

Before you buy anything or even get a sleeping study done, I'd suggest that you video record your sleep for as many nights as you can and SEE exactly what you are or are not doing. Otherwise, without a sleep study (and even after one) you are just guessing at your situation of apneas vs. symptoms, etc.. If you can see and hear your apnea events, your sleeping style, and all else that you do during yoru "sleep", then you can target and figure out solutions. You can hook up a simple and cheap web cam to your computer to record your sleep. There is also free software out there for viewing and editing. Or borrow a video cam from a friend, or library, or buy one from Costco, etc., use it for a few nights and return it in like new condition. Costco allows a 90 day trial, other stores may as well. Try to get one with Infra Red or low light performance, but a soft night light may not be hard to sleep with.

For example: maybe your apnea events are worse or ONLY on your back (they are for most people), then perhaps you simply need to figure out how to stay sleeping on your side. That alone was a HUGE breakthrough for me, but I had to SEE it first and the 2 sleep studies that I had never mentioned it as a cause to apneas. CPAP's can help if one insists on back sleeping, but then one has to have the mask that will tolerate the higher pressures and perhaps discomforts with higher pressures.

Also with CPAP/APAP, there will be many small things to figure out continuously, so it isn't a one time solution. Finding the right mask is key IME. Getting the correct headband tension is also key. Mine stretches over time like crazy. My mask is fine 2+ years old, but the headstrap has probably stretched 2-3 inches and now that the tabs no longer fit the band, I staple the tabs to the headstrap & adjust when needed. Head straps can be expensive here.

Also shop Craigslist, ebay and CPAPAuction (though the latter needs an Rx which your GP might give you, or one of us can buy something for you). But realize that the machine is just an air pressure box, and the mask is most important. Software is nice to have but not needed if your machine at least gives you a nightly statistic like my Sandman Auto does. I wouldn't worry about buying an oximeter unless your case is severe. I don't use mine any longer but may again one day.

Also, if your recorded sleep doesn't offer sleep apnea as a cause, then you can rule it out and will be able to search for other possible medical causes. Without a sleep study or actually seeing yourself how you sleep, then you are just guessing. I imagine that engineers don't like guesswork?

[guest23456]

Ultranewb,

Can you update us on your situation? Just wondering...