New to the site

[cpapabuser]

Just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed this site just from the past couple of days browsing it. It is nice to have so many people sharing their opinions to help others with their cpap problems. I tried the comfortgel mask and the fisher paykel hc407 masks and really like them both but the fisher paykel is smaller so it is easier to wear at night. I have seen where alot of people don't care much for their equipment supplier and I have to say I think mine is pretty good, they call me every month asking if I want filters and a hose and if anything they call me too often though I really don't mind. I was just curious if anyone gets calls this often and if that is normal. Thanks for any replies.

[Guest]

Hi!! With a name like that I thought you were going to tell us how you winged that critter through the wall......sounds like you're working on a better solution tho.........! My RT and DME are one & the same.......He was taken a little aback by me at first, but now that he understands me a bit better, we get along just great.....(Gidgie.......not logged in.....booger in the browser.......)

[ConnecticutCat]

Phone calls? You mean they actually call you? I have had to fight for everything I ever got from my DME provider. My insurance company changed providers March 1 this year. I got a letter in the mail about March 8 from the new provider, sort of introducing themselves. The letter said I would receive a phone call in about a week to discuss my on-going needs.....I am still waiting for that call! I had hoped that the new provider would be better than the old - so far I would say not.

[RestInSeattle]

A DME that proactively takes care of your needs! Keep that one, it's a rare breed.

As to the ComfortGel and Fisher & Paykal, I've used them both. My DME worked with me on masks in the following order.

1. FlexiFit 407, leaked around nose base (not badly). Whistled terribly when there was "any" humidity on the exhilation holes.

2. ComfortGel. Used for a while, but seemed like they broke easily and sometimes had to be strapped on tight to reduce leaks.

3. Mirage Activa. Use this the longest duration. Leaks delt with very well, but has bad rainout issues. Sometimes I'd roll and get a nose full of condensed water, sure fire way to have interrupted sleep.

4. Mirage Swift Nasal Pillows. The mask I'm currently on. The weight is very light, fites well without leaks and hasn't rained out on me even on "5" of the Respironics Heated Humidifier. Amazing!

Some also prefer two other nasal pillows masks, the Breeze or the new ComfortLite 2.

With your DME so responsive, try out several masks to find what is truely the best interface for you.

Good luck!

[CPAPjerryCPAP]

I am also new to the site, I've been reading posts for about a month now. I had my sleep disorder test in January, a mild heart attack in February and entered the world of CPAP in March.

I started with the Comfortfull2 mask, but was having trouble adjusting. I thought I was too much of a mouth breather for anything else, but after reading all the postings for awhile I decided to buy an Mirage Activa Mask. I've never looked back. I really like how it feels and works and my mouth stays closed. Sure I still get pops and smal leaks but I just pull that boy off my face for a second and it reseals.

The only thing I really miss is the spontaneity of going to sleep. Here's my routine
1. Take medication
2. Wash face with soap and water
3. Blow nose
4. Saline solution spay into nostrils
5. Wait.....blow nose again.
6. Apply Breathe Right strip
7. Sit on side of bed put mask on
8. Say a cuss word
9. Ramp button
10. Hopefully sleep in less than 20 minutes..

It's been an adjustment, my wife, I think, was so used to my snoring that it took her awhile to get adjusted to the soft hum and mask pops, but she has found her stride too.

Again, great board, hope to be "reading" more of you soon.

[rested gal]

8. Say a cuss word

LOL! Well, you found the secret to good treatment pretty darn fast.