Another newbie

[jbenenson]

About a year ago I went to my primary and told him that I was tired all the time. He suggested a test for sleep apnea, to which I replied that I would never wear "one of those masks". To make a long story short I was tested for sleep apnea a few weeks ago and was diagnosed as "severe". Last night I had a CPAP titration study done, slept well (considering a bed not my own, thousands of wires, and a full face mask). Because I used to be a scuba diver, breathing pressurized air through a mask was no big deal.

The mask was a Mirage Quattro, medium. There were very few leaks; they happened only when I slept on my side and the mask was pushed by the pillow. The bridge of my nose is slightly sore -- I could feel the masking touching there -- and the fitting guide showed that a large size was right for me. The tech, however, thought that the mask fit correctly.

Now, I'm ready to become a part of the CPAP community, find a mask I like, and participate in this forum, hopefully adding information as time goes on.

[robysue]

Welcome and best of luck on your new adventure from another newbie.

[Topsail Girl]

Welcome to the board!!! I'm newly registered today. I have been on CPAP for just over a year. I was started out with a full face mask (comfort gel) and no matter what size I tried or ways I tried to seal leaks and keep it from hurting my nose I could not succeed. In a 1 year 4 months I went through 5 or 6 different masks. I finally found the Breese Dream Seal that covers only my nose and I just use a chin strap. That was about 2 weeks ago and I am FINALLY getting the sleep I need and actually sleep comfortably. Good luck on your search. Everyone is different and has their own idea of what fits and feels ok.

[suzzy]

Another welcome here too! I'm fairly new to the board, but have only posted a few of times. There's a lot to learn by reading the existing posts and the wikis, etc.

I'm sure someone will come by and tell you how to ease the soreness on the bridge of your nose. If not, do a search and if you can't find anything, ask. There seems to be an answer to almost everything you can possible come across in here.

Note to self: get an avatar

[chunkyfrog]

Welcome!

[Uncle_Bob]

welcome. if you click on control panel at the top left and click on profile then edit equipment people can see what kind equipment you have. and then some useful goodies may come your way

Getting a mask with minimal or no leaks is a good start but getting a good data capable machine is more or less essential when starting out.

[Cindy58]

welcome. if you click on control panel at the top left and click on profile then edit equipment people can see what kind equipment you have. and then some useful goodies may come your way

When people can see what you use it's easier (and faster) for them to answer questions.

Getting a mask with minimal or no leaks is a good start but getting a good data capable machine is more or less essential when starting out.

Welcome to the forum. It's the best place for information, IMO. As a Newbie, I've used it a lot to get answers. Uncle Bob gave you two very important points, but the Data Capable Machine is #1. Without that you will have a tougher time being proactive with your therapy...if you choose NOT to sit by and let others control your health and wellbeing.
A suggestion: Learn as much as you can BEFORE you get your equipment. That will help you get the right machine for your needs. If I remember correctly, Rested Gal has a list of data capable machines. Near the upper right of the home page you can click on the word 'Members and it will take you to the list. Find Rested Gal and click on her name. that will take you to all the subjects she's posted about and she's grouped them into topics. She is very knowledgeable and provides people here lots of support and answers. Get your Dr to write your Rx for a data capable machine.

Again...welcome and good luck!