I'm getting my cpap tomorrow...

tiredted · Post by **tiredted** » Mon Dec 20, 2004 7:54 pm

Any words of advice for the first few nights using it?

Paul B · Post by **Paul B** » Mon Dec 20, 2004 8:06 pm

Ted, 80% of your success with it, in my opinion, has to do with your attitude towards it. Be positive and look for the good, which there is a great deal, and minimize the negative, which there is a little. Tell yourself that the mask and the machine are your friends, and good ones too because not only are they extending your life, but they are making the quality of your life infinitely better.

Take it a little at a time and before you get frustrated, and hopefully you won't, build up the number of hours that you can successfully sleep with it. Practice with it running while you are watching TV or reading a book and get used to the touch of it, the noise and the change to your previous sleep regimen. You will grow to look forward to it and to the increase in energy you will have the next day.

Good luck and let us know your experiences with it!

ldemmery · Post by **ldemmery** » Tue Dec 21, 2004 11:20 am

Ted, I hope you have a good sleep!

My advice....adjust the straps of your headgear when you are lying down...makes a world of difference on getting a good seal. Also, wash your face before putting the stuff on...need to remove all the oils from your face for a good seal and (I just discovered this) wet the edge of your mask that seals to your face...for some reason the seal seems better when I do that to my mask and I have little problems withit thoughout the night.

Lynne

Edie · Post by **Edie** » Wed Dec 22, 2004 9:57 pm

Run the hose over your headboard. That made a HUGE difference in comfort for me.

rested gal · Post by **rested gal** » Wed Dec 22, 2004 11:30 pm

Good luck, tiredted. Hope you'll be restedted soon.

Almost moreso than the machine, the mask they've given you will be what makes or breaks therapy. Comfort issues can sure disturb sleep. If you have any mask problems - leaks or sore nose - do comb through posts here relating to mask issues. And post about whatever bothers you in the treatment. People here are very good about offering help.

That's excellent advice from Paul B, idemmery and Edie!

Machine

Mask