Newbie Update

[JulieKalber]

Hi all,

Thought I would update on how I am going. This is my fourth month on the Resmed. At three months into it (and the usual adaptation issues, such as mask type, leaks and fit etc) things deteriorated somewhat. I developed a nasty cough overnight, with sinus congestion and soreness.

Having read your responses to this issue, I have experimented with the humidity, which I had had on low or not at all before. I now have the humidity set on 3.5 and have no cough at all. My sinuses are relatively calmed down - the local pharmacy suggested Calendula ointment for my sore nasal passages, which has been very effective both as a healer and lubricant.

My mask and I seem to have gotten over the initial battle we had, - minimal leaks and much more comfort. Last night I had eight hours solid and restful sleep. It's been years since that happened!

I still am having off nights, but having had two really good nights in a row, I now know that the tweaking is working and that my (sometimes reluctant) patience and perseverance is working for me.

My numbers are really good - I am not up to par with this bit yet, but am starting to understand it all, thanks to a very patient and intelligent husband, and my learning on this site!

I have done a massive amount of reading here and am so thankful for all the education I am getting.

Thank you to everyone. I absolutely know that without this place I would have given up at the starting gate.

[MaxDarkside]

My respiratory therapist started me at 3.5 humidity on my ResMed, which seems about right for me. I've played with it a bit, set to 3.0 or 4.0 to no particular effect I could sense.

[Elle]

Sounds like a great attitude for making it work. I am sure you will have it nailed down soon. Good for you for being persistent. Many give up.

Does the calendula ointment you mentioned touch the mask? I remember reading that anything other than water based products would break down the silicone. I am worrying in advance for when I get my 'pillows' mask this week and am interested in all solutions to nose sores.

[JulieKalber]

Sounds like a great attitude for making it work. I am sure you will have it nailed down soon. Good for you for being persistent. Many give up.

Does the calendula ointment you mentioned touch the mask? I remember reading that anything other than water based products would break down the silicone. I am worrying in advance for when I get my 'pillows' mask this week and am interested in all solutions to nose sores.

I use the calendula ointment during the day. So will start when I get up and use it if there is any sign of soreness or dryness several times over the day. By the time I go to bed, usually my nose feels ok. I don't apply it overnight.

[Kitatonic]

Only had used CPAP for the past three months and my major complaint is dealing with nasal sores. So I looked into Calendula ointment. Some calendula products have white petrolatum which would definitely break down the silicone. Others have lanolin (which is think is OK) and beeswax (not sure). I guess for now, I'll stick to the pure lanolin and switching to the nasal mask when the sores bleed.

[Elle]

That is good to know.

Thanks guys.