Almost a week...

Restless · Post by **Restless** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 5:16 pm

Hi all,

I've been on my CPAP machine for 5 days now (nights, actually). I feel I am getting used to it and have done pretty well. I have not had any problems since the first night (when i gave up and took off my swift at 3:30 am). I have been averaging 6-7 hours a night on it. I have not noticed any change yet (i.e. feel better rested, etc.). Maybe something has changed and I've just not noticed yet. I realize that people are different, but how long before you all noticed a difference?

Thanks,
Chris

cflame1 · Post by **cflame1** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 5:34 pm

I was told... dunno if it's true or not... that when the pressure's right, that you should feel a difference in approx 2 weeks.

Then again I know that mine's been wrong for awhile.

Just take it with a congrats that you're getting 6-7 a night with it... is it more than what you were getting pre-XPAP??

Restless · Post by **Restless** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 5:38 pm

cflame1 wrote: .. is it more than what you were getting pre-XPAP??

No. About the same. I am still optimistic.

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 5:44 pm

Unfortunately Restless, you don't have a machine that monitors your therapy. I believe your machine only will show compliance. I don't have Resmed equipment, so someone can correct me if I'm wrong.

In this day and age, with software available, it's the only way to go. A Resmed Elite or Vantage would show you numbers if you are having apneas, leaks, snores, or not. They are a strong indication of how you should be feeling. The key word is "should".

Since you've only had your equipment for a week, perhaps your DME can switch it out to one of the higher end models.

Sounds like you are doing pretty good. Some people feel the effects of therapy instantly, and others it takes awhile. But if you are not feeling better within a month or so, perhaps the DME can set you up with an AUTO cpap, to see if you need a higher or lower pressure.

Good Luck

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): auto cpap, resmed, DME

Restless · Post by **Restless** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 5:54 pm

Linda3032,

Good feedback. Thank you. i was wondering about the monitoring software too. I am having a follow up with my RRT this coming week and will ask him about it. I know so little about the machinery, and it was basically thrust upon me, I am playing catch up.

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 6:03 pm

Playing catchup is a hard way to go, but it's early.

Just do alot of research on this forum about the equipment. I would say 99% of us recommend getting a decent machine with software.

Most of us like the apaps, because it can be used for in-home titrating to determine the absolute best pressure. Then some of us set it for straight cpap, or use it with a narrow variable pressure.

An auto machine also helps re-titrate years down the road - say you start feeling bad, or have lost or gained (heaven forbid) weight. It's a whole lot easier to do an in-home study than having to go to another sleep clinic. Be aware that many insurance companies won't authorize an auto (like medicare). Also, your DME might tell you that your insurance won't authorize one -- whether it's true or not.

The Resmed Vantage is an auto. The Remstar Auto is also. If you decide to try for an auto, ask more question here.

Good Luck

annie123 · Post by **annie123** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 7:32 pm

I was still struggling to get used to the mask at 2 weeks, so it sounds like you're doing great. Hang in there. i think between 3 and 4 weeks I started noticing a change (for the better) in my energy level.

MarkM · Post by **MarkM** » Sun Jan 28, 2007 7:47 pm

I have an apap. I have been on it for almost two weeks. The data has really helped me with mask leaks and such.

I started noticing an improvement after 3 or 4 days which would only last for a few hours in the morning. It seems as time goes by the improved feeling lasts longer through the day. I am very optimistic. I will say that although I feel I am lucky in taking to the "hose" quickly, there have been a couple of miserable nights.