Finally Sleeping! Thank you!

[Yoda]

I am finally sleeping:
OA .8 H .6 AHI 1.3 ( I wanted to post my data, but couldn't figure out how). I slept so well I got up stiff. I even remember dreaming.

Thanks to all the wonderful people who support us “new folk” as we struggle. Without this forum, I would not have known the things I needed to know to bug the Doctor and DME and take control of my own therapy.

My first month was hell. I was not sleeping at all – and the AHI was getting worse over time. The RT finally told me that she thought the pressure was wrong and that she would get in touch with the doctor.

I got on this forum, did what the Gerald and others on this forum recommend:
Study – Get Software - Take control.

Armed with information, I pestered my doctor until we got the pressure to the level that it helped. (Getting an AUTO machine next week -ordered before I started sleeping.)

I also tape now. It made a lot of difference. I resisted for a while. It seemed so extreme. But, with the encouragement of this forum, I tried it and started getting results! Now I know that whatever it takes is what it takes. Sleep is Life!

Thanks to all! I hope I can help others in the way you have helped me!

Cecile

[jojo2785]

hi , what are you using to tape and what procedure. ?

[lktnky]

Yeah, Yoda!!!!

[Yoda]

hi , what are you using to tape and what procedure. ?

I am using the Nexcare gentle paper tape. I tried the clear tape but it irritated my skin. I am still experimenting a little. The way I tape is to cut a piece of one inch wide tape about an inch longer than my mouth is wide. I fold over a little tab on the right side (to remove it easily if needed) and then tape my mouth shut. (I learned it all on this forum: search taping).

I also use a chinstrap - which I hate

Cecile

[SaltLakeJan]

Hi Cecile,

I think because sleep apnea does not get the support that diabetics get from their doctors, the Diabetic Associations and the general news, there are more drop-outs in apnea.

The early days and NIGHTS of cpap, seem like they will never end, but with the help of this forum we beginners have a better opportunity of success.

You say you hate your chinstrap. What kind do you use. I have to get one for my sleep study - I have a chronic mouth leak.

Best to you,

Jan

[Yoda]

Jan,
I use the Cardinal chinstrap and I think it is ok - I just don't like the confining nature. And, its hot. But, I do better with it. If I don't wear it I get the blow-fish feeling.

Cecile

[ozij]

I fold in two tabs, one on each side.

O.