New to CPAP - Is this normal??

cougar0020 · Post by **cougar0020** » Mon Feb 05, 2007 3:24 pm

I have had my CPAP for about one month now, but through trial and error I am on my 3rd mask and have only had it for about 1 week now. All I can stand is about 4-5 hours with the mask and then I take it off and give up for the night so I won't loose anymore sleep. The FF mask fits well and does not leak but when I wake up I can't stand to keep it on! I have tried sleeping pills too.

Is this normal or should I be wearing it for the entire night by now? I feel like I will never make it for the full 8-9 hours? My husband is frustrated with me and thinks I am not trying hard enough to keep it on and I dread every morning when he asks me how long did you keep it on?

Has anyone else had these struggles?

pedroski · Post by **pedroski** » Mon Feb 05, 2007 3:39 pm

Hi cougar0020,

Yes, lots of people have trouble with masks and getting used to it. The bottom line is: you're now getting 4 -5 hours of treated sleep with almost certainly low apneas (what are your figures?) compared to 8 hours of untreated, so you're 5 hours in front. Is there something in particular that freaks you out about the mask, is it feeling claustrophobic?

Anyway hang in there, you'll get the hang of it.

Peter

roster · Post by **roster** » Mon Feb 05, 2007 3:45 pm

Oh yes, we also have problems with impatient spouses!

pedroski · Post by **pedroski** » Mon Feb 05, 2007 3:57 pm

Oh yes, we also have problems with impatient spouses!

Hi again cougar0020

The payoff for hubby is a reinvigorated missus!! Well worth a small inconvenience compared to the frustration and challenges you have to go through. Would he have a read through some of the posts on this forum? That would help him realise the challenges that you face in being compliant.

Peter

Moogy · Post by **Moogy** » Mon Feb 05, 2007 4:49 pm

Don't worry, because after only a week, you are doing GREAT! Lots of people take a while to get accustomed to this new way of sleeping. Hang in there, and tell your spouse that the experienced hoseheads say you are doing fine!

Moogy

bdp522 · Post by **bdp522** » Mon Feb 05, 2007 5:49 pm

It would be best if you could keep the mask on all night. BUT if you have to work your way up to all night that's ok too! Baby steps are ok as long as you have continual improvement. Some of us even back slide a bit from time to time. The important thing is to not give up. It will get easier! You may never like it but you will get used to it.

Brenda

Mask

Additional Comments: Chin Strap