Hi,
I recently tested positive for sleep apnea. A second test was performed, but I don't have the detailed results for either one yet. I'm meeting with my doctor soon to discuss the test results in detail and options.
I'm confused as to how the test actually works. I had a hard time falling asleep since I’m a side sleeper and I had to sleep face up. Also, the room and all the wiring made me feel claustrophobic and the ventilation system was loud. During the second test, where I was connected to the breathing machine, the mask made me feel uncomfortable (I hate having things around my nose). So I’m confused as to how the test could be reliable when my sleep was so poor due to the room and feeling claustrophobic.
Also, if anyone has suggestion on questions I should ask my doctor, I will really appreciate the input.
Sincerely,
leslie
understanding sleep apnea and the test
5 posts
• Page 1 of 1
I am not going to try to go into the tech stuff but give you some other advice that you didn't ask for.
You say you are meeting your doc soon to go over the test.
RESEARCH NOW even before you go see him/her. Then you will know what the prescription is being written for, whether or not you will like what is written. Also get the original copy of the prescription and sleep study in your hand before you leave the office.
DO NOT take "The DME will be calling you". That may be fine if you like the DME that your doc faxes the stuff to, but it is your choice where you rent/buy and your relationship with your insurance company as to what they will cover and whom (specific DME) they will deal with.
You can use brick and mortar DME via insurance or online DME cash (sometimes people are successful at submitting a bill to their insurance co for cash purchase - but not always), or you insurance may work with BILL-MY-Insurance.com.
So research all machine options and features (use cpap.com to compare machines). THis will also give you an idea of pricing. You can use this comparison in price to compare to what your insurance tells you they will cover of the billed price from a brick and mortar DME. Sometimes when one DME bills you (you walk out with a machine) you are tied to that DME for insurance coverage. Make sure you know what you are getting and that the cost is good (your out of pocket) before you walk out the door with something.
Research masks. Try to remember or find out what you used at the sleep place if you don't have it still and if you liked it. If you go to a local DME try a number of masks or at least look at them. Don't let them hand you one and send you away. Not all masks are good for all people.
Most of all get informed from this website's sponser, and call your insurance company yourself BEFORE you see the doc.
You say you are meeting your doc soon to go over the test.
RESEARCH NOW even before you go see him/her. Then you will know what the prescription is being written for, whether or not you will like what is written. Also get the original copy of the prescription and sleep study in your hand before you leave the office.
DO NOT take "The DME will be calling you". That may be fine if you like the DME that your doc faxes the stuff to, but it is your choice where you rent/buy and your relationship with your insurance company as to what they will cover and whom (specific DME) they will deal with.
You can use brick and mortar DME via insurance or online DME cash (sometimes people are successful at submitting a bill to their insurance co for cash purchase - but not always), or you insurance may work with BILL-MY-Insurance.com.
So research all machine options and features (use cpap.com to compare machines). THis will also give you an idea of pricing. You can use this comparison in price to compare to what your insurance tells you they will cover of the billed price from a brick and mortar DME. Sometimes when one DME bills you (you walk out with a machine) you are tied to that DME for insurance coverage. Make sure you know what you are getting and that the cost is good (your out of pocket) before you walk out the door with something.
Research masks. Try to remember or find out what you used at the sleep place if you don't have it still and if you liked it. If you go to a local DME try a number of masks or at least look at them. Don't let them hand you one and send you away. Not all masks are good for all people.
Most of all get informed from this website's sponser, and call your insurance company yourself BEFORE you see the doc.
Understanding test
Hi Leslie. Many have the same concerns after their study. Often we have slept more than it felt like, but at any rate, you test results will show how much sleep you actually had, and there are some baselines as to what's adequate data. When you go in for your results, tell the doc your concerns so they can go over that data with you.
And you are correct - the data obtained that restless nite may not be a full representation of your normal sleep experience. I am one who wants the option to check at least the basics of my data instead of waiting for another doctor's visit. You may want to make some calls before you go so you'll be informed about your insurance benefits and limitations. But without results to go by, you can't know any possible variables that could dictate specific equipment needs. Do make sure the mask you are given accomodates side sleeping, and ask them to let you lay down to test it.
Ask the doc for complete copies of both your studies for your personal files. You will have more questions, and often those results will contain your answers. Best wishes.
Kathy
And you are correct - the data obtained that restless nite may not be a full representation of your normal sleep experience. I am one who wants the option to check at least the basics of my data instead of waiting for another doctor's visit. You may want to make some calls before you go so you'll be informed about your insurance benefits and limitations. But without results to go by, you can't know any possible variables that could dictate specific equipment needs. Do make sure the mask you are given accomodates side sleeping, and ask them to let you lay down to test it.
Ask the doc for complete copies of both your studies for your personal files. You will have more questions, and often those results will contain your answers. Best wishes.
Kathy
_________________
| Mask: TAP PAP Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Improved Stability Mouthpiece |
| Humidifier: S9™ Series H5i™ Heated Humidifier with Climate Control |
| Additional Comments: Bleep/DreamPort for full nights, Tap Pap for shorter sessions |
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leli243
5 posts
• Page 1 of 1