Have had CPAP for 4 nights now and don't feel any different.

jcsaxx · Post by **jcsaxx** » Fri Jul 27, 2007 11:35 am

I've been using CPAP for 4 nights now, until I wake up which is usually about 5 hours, and then can't fall back asleep with the mask on. Its so weird to have something on my face that wasn't there before. I'm not really mad that I have sleep apnea, but of course, I wish that I didn't have it. I realize that its my fault partially or maybe even totally, because I am very overweight. I heard and read so many stories of this CPAP changing people's lives by helping them feel so much better, but unfortunately, I feel the same so far. Maybe I'm not accepting reality by thinking this will cure my "tiredness" throughout the day and lack of no energy. I would like to know how long it took for you to actually feel better. I know that not everyone will have the same results, but many stories I have heard are that people felt totally better after just one night with CPAP. I want to be one of those people. Thanks for reading and please let me know how long before you felt better.

klingonmommy · Post by **klingonmommy** » Fri Jul 27, 2007 11:45 am

Ive only had my cpap three more days than you've had yours, but last night was the first time I managed to sleep more than 2 hours with it on. I got through 5 hours so its my hope that it does get better as you go. Is there something about it thats bugging you or just the fact that its there. I discovered that if I turn off the humidifier I don't take it off in my sleep. I hope it gets better for you too.

Babette · Post by **Babette** » Fri Jul 27, 2007 11:57 am

These are very typical first weeks reports. Give it time. There are so many variables out there. Read our FAQ's at the top of the forum, they might give you some tips.

Good luck and keep plugging away!!!
B.

DreamStalker · Post by **DreamStalker** » Fri Jul 27, 2007 12:08 pm

In addition to time/patience, you need to educate yourself on the treatment (this forum is the best for that). Successful treatment generally requires that you monitor and adjust your treatment as neccessary.

Start with the following basics:

1) Get your own personal copy of your "complete" sleep study from your doctor.

2) Get an original copy of your prescription from your doctor.

3) Start demanding a machine that provides efficacy data (if you do not already have one ... you may want to demand an "auto" adjusting machine from the start -- even if you end up using it only in CPAP mode).

4) Monitor your data (using software or what ever method you choose to record your pressure, AHI, AI, HI, and leak values).

5) Read and ask lots of questions here on this forum.

6) Make sure you get fitted with a mask that is both comfortable and does not leak (if it is a nasal type ... make sure you do not leak air from your mouth).

7) Once all of the above have been taken care of, you can adjust your pressure settings as needed to optimize your treatment with the help of the experienced members here.

The rest is just getting used to the new lifestyle which becomes easier as you begin to benefit from the treatment.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Jul 27, 2007 4:06 pm

DreamStalker wrote:In addition to time/patience, you need to educate yourself on the treatment (this forum is the best for that). Successful treatment generally requires that you monitor and adjust your treatment as neccessary.

Start with the following basics:

1) Get your own personal copy of your "complete" sleep study from your doctor.

2) Get an original copy of your prescription from your doctor.

3) Start demanding a machine that provides efficacy data (if you do not already have one ... you may want to demand an "auto" adjusting machine from the start -- even if you end up using it only in CPAP mode).

4) Monitor your data (using software or what ever method you choose to record your pressure, AHI, AI, HI, and leak values).

5) Read and ask lots of questions here on this forum.

6) Make sure you get fitted with a mask that is both comfortable and does not leak (if it is a nasal type ... make sure you do not leak air from your mouth).

7) Once all of the above have been taken care of, you can adjust your pressure settings as needed to optimize your treatment with the help of the experienced members here.

The rest is just getting used to the new lifestyle which becomes easier as you begin to benefit from the treatment.

DITTO!!! (all of it)

You didn't list the equipment you have, but if you have a nasal mask and are waking up with a dry mouth, it's almost certain that you're leaking air.
That will negate any therapy and you'll never feel any better.

Been on therapy for over 2 years. Lost the daytime drowsiness very soon after starting......everything else (improvement-wise) has been in subtle changes over time. I didn't get this condition (and all the bad things that came with it) overnight, so I formed a "mindset" that the recovery wouldn't happen overnight, either. The more impatient you are, the more frustrated you'll get.

"Baby steps"

Den