clostraphobia

[mad annie]

clostraphobia...can't wear my cpap mask because i feel trapped, tried everything i know, even having nightmares about it

[Julie]

Hi Annie - We probably can help you, but without any more information it's going to be difficult. Can you please give the name of the machine you use and which mask you have... and what you have actually tried, and if you have tried other masks (which ones?). Do you have anyone who's helped you get the right size to fit you without having to have it too tight?

[chunkyfrog]

Many new cpap-ers suffer from claustrophobia--
wearing the mask before bedtime--while watching TV or reading is a common strategy.
Good luck; it gets better.

[happysleeper]

Hi Annie,

Here are a couple of suggestions:

wiki/index.php/Claustrophobia A link to the CPAP Wiki with information about causes and solutions for CPAP related claustrophobia, and

http://www.pur-sleep.com/content/?id=6 Pur-Sleep has essential oil products for use with a diffuser by your CPAP machine that can give you sensory input that can be used to distract your brain from the claustrophobia.

I felt claustrophobic at first too, and helped myself by saying over and over, "fresh air....fresh air..." to focus on the air that is coming in through the mask. I also practiced how to get out of the mask with one step--for me it's pulling it off, or for some it's unclipping a clip. That way I didn't worry that I wouldn't be able to get it off.

If you log in, you can register your machine and mask, and others may be able to give even more help to you. Good luck, Happy Sleeper

[jamiswolf]

Hi Annie,
I disagree with some opinions regarding claustrophobia. For example, some people claim Full Face masks cause claustrophobia. Not for me.

One possible explanation is that your machine is not blowing enough air...making you feel suffocating, which is a very similar sensation to claustrophobia.

Ramp feature can be a source for this sensation. Or a very low machine setting. I don't tolerate any pressures below 7cmH2O.

When I have a goodly amount of air flowing through my mask, it feels the opposite of claustrophobia. Feels like a very nice input of clean air available to my lungs.
Jamis

PS: In the future, complain about something that has an easier name...my fingers are tired from typing claustrophobia!

[JeffL]

Try a nasal pillow mask.

[nandob]

Hi, When I first was told that I had to be on a CPAP machine I panicked. I, too am claustrophobic. The 1st time the technician put the mask on without turning the machine on 1st, I grabbed it off my face & tossed it. I found that if I turned the machine on 1st & then put my mask on I could deal with it a lot easier. Also, I found that if you have a mask that covers your nose & your mouth that it is a lot easier. I have been a CPAP user since 1999 and it gets much easier. Also, don't use the delay start on your ramp. Let your machine start right away and let the machine come up to your full levels before putting your mask on.