I can't get myself to use the machine.

[swcompassionate]

In numerous threads that I read as I was starting out one person suggested just sitting up with the mask on doing something else like reading, watching TV, listening to music to distract your mind and then try to lay down with it only when you are relaxed and ready to go to sleep. I find if I try to go to sleep with the mask before I am ready to fall alseep, I will lay there and be anxious. Also, if you are having trouble with the machine/mask smell I would highly suggest trying some essential oils from pursleep scents. If someone could help me out with the link to the site again I would appreciate it. I also echo the sentiment to just sleep with it as long as you can and gradually your time will increase. That is what is happening with me right now but I am kind of stuck at three hours. Not giving up though. Still trying and getting help from this wonderful forum. One of the best ways to beat anxieties or phobias about something is just gradual exposure. So maybe for a couple of nights you just sit up with it on for an hour to get used to feel, then maybe after a couple of nights you sleep for an hour with it, etc. Hang in there and I hope you are able to do it. Eventually, you will begin to feel the benefits. Even though I am only sleeping about three hours with the machine I do feel a little more energy the next day. Not as much as I would like but definitely better. Good luck! You can do it!

[Debjax]

I was first prescribed the CPAP machine about 3 years ago, used it for one week, and found it to be awful. Now I am so exhausted all the time that I feel I have to learn how to tolerate it, but can't get myself to rig it up again.

You already know you have to do this, if only to find out what NOT being exhausted is like, and perhaps to save your life, so break it down to see what was wrong and see if it can be fixed.

Ok, what exactly was the "awful" part? For me, it was the hose and I tangling up all night. Hung that hose so I wasn't getting tangled it and it made all the difference for me.

Is yours the hose? The mask? Break it down, find out what the alternatives are....I'm betting there is one. You may need a different type of mask. If it's the claustrophobia effect, try putting the mask on with the knowledge that you will wear it as long as you can, then remove it. Then go for a bit longer the next day, and the next and the next. Sometimes if it is claustrophobia, sleeping with the mask at first gets you into a panicky situation as you adjust to the feeling of having it on...if that is the case, try wearing it for a bit while you are awake. Put it on and turn the machine on for a bit during the day and read a book, watch tv, something to distract yourself but let you get accustomed to the feeling.

[Georgio]

You can do it if you put your mind to it. You have no choice.

Georgio

[Goofproof]

The bad part, you equiptment is 3 years old, now there are much better units that have features that are easier to use, AUTO pressure, exhale relief and most important a way to get data to see how well you are doing. Things that weren't out 3 years ago, and for a lot of folks still aren't offered do to profit grubbing and not having a well informed doctor.

But if you truly want to be successful with XPAP treatment, you alone hold the key. Three years is three years of your life, "Get UR Done". Jim

[RachelM]

I will never forget my first week or so on CPAP. I had extreme difficulty getting to sleep and staying asleep. My Dr recommended Ambien until I adjusted to it. I reluctantly used it a few nights and it did help some but I have fear of sleeping medications.

But after about 10 days my body adjusted to the experience. After two years on CPAP, if I'm ever tempted to forego hooking myself up nightly to it, I remember back to how terrible I felt pre-CPAP and how wonderful a good night's sleep feels! I used to dread going to bed because I knew I'd awaken continually all night long. Now, I anticipate the good night's rest.

[crossfit junkie]

I'm new too and was on a pink cloud, thinking I liked the air blowing into my face but now that I have doctor perscribed pressure of 18/10, it's not fun any more but as I've learned in another group I belong to "One day at a TIme" and if you don't like it ......Fake it til you make it. I know it will get to be OK for both of us. All the wonderful people on this site are telling us so.
CFJ

[nate fry]

Look, you have to try to make the best of it. I had surgery and that helped a lot. I still use my machine though. You have a choice on your life and how you live it. If you don't learn to use it. You are doomed.

[Jason S.]

Get your insurance paid up for your family.

The graveyard is full of people with your attitude.

Or do like the warden in Cool Hand Luke.

Get your mind right.

your choice.

Does that mean he has to spend a night in "The Box"?