apprehensive to use my CPAP machine

[kamalkamal]

Hello out there!

I got my machine and I am so scared to use it. I think I will suffocate. The mask plugs my nose. I feel so uncomfortable!! Do others feel like me?? HELP!!!

[DaveMunson]

If the mask ain't comfortable, it may not be the right mask.

[Deano65]

Hello out there!

I got my machine and I am so scared to use it. I think I will suffocate. The mask plugs my nose. I feel so uncomfortable!! Do others feel like me?? HELP!!!

Kind of, except I think I will suffocate if I don't use it..

[boosmum]

what machine and mask do you have??

I personally can't use masks like the Swift FX etc as I get that suffocating feeling. I have a Zest Petite nasal mask now and love it. Finding the right mask is more than half the battle I think.

[Bons]

(Ack, wrote a long response and it didn't post).
Anyway, what machine do you use, and what pressure is it set at? Do you have the ramp feature set so that you start out at a lower setting as you fall asleep?

It sounds like you have nasal pillows? They should not go in your nose, just against them. Perhaps they were fitted wrong? Talk with the person who sold you the mask to see if they were fitted correctly. Also, you have 30 days after purchasing a mask to exchange it for something different - some people go through a dozen masks before finding one that suits them. Maybe you'd do better with a nasal mask or a full face?

Slapping a mask on your face can be anxiety producing. Try getting to used to it outside of bed. Bring it out to the family room and put it on. If you are really anxious, don't hook it up to the cpap at first. Watch tv or listen to music. Notice that you can breathe through the exhaust vents - you will not suffocate, even if the power goes out. Then hook it up and turn on the machine for an hour or so.

You can do this! Instead of telling yourself "I'll never get through the night" aim for three hours each night. That's the minimum amount of time you need to use it in order for the insurance company to pay for the thing. Then, aim for all night after a couple of nights.

[Lizistired]

Please go to the user control panel and list your equipment in TEXT format in your signature.

Some other things are Ramp and EPR or flex settings that can cause your pressure to be too low when the machine first comes on.

[archangle]

Yes, put the information about your equipment in your profile. Be sure to tell us your pressure settings. Look at the pressure displayed on your display when it feels like you're suffocating.

Use the machine while reading or watching TV and get used to it.

If your machine has a ramp function, do not turn on the ramp function.

If you're feeling that you're suffocating, try opening your mouth and letting air blow through your nose out your mouth for a few seconds. This proves that air is flowing and may help prevent panic about suffocating.

[ozij]

Turn the machine on before you put your mask on.