pillows and stuff

[sleepyjan]

Am still so new to all of this.....do the cpap pillows with side "dents" or whatever help for side sleepers? What's with the aromatherapy? Does it make a difference? If you like the pillows, which one do you use? I finally got the manual that was supposed to come with my new machine, called the supplier and told them the machine came without any filters and no smartcard.therapist hasn't returned my calls .and 2 weeks of waiting and I still don't have the full face mask they promised for me, the nasal mask is still making my mouth sore as H.. but I am sleeping better...thanks for your advice and help...if I ever get the card that's supposed to come with this danged thing maybe I'll even know if I'm on the right settings etc.!

[bdp522]

I've been usingthe Papillow for years now, and yes...it makes a huge difference. It allows the mask to sort of hang over the edge of the pillow while still giving excellent support to my neck and head.
I've also been using the pur-sleep aroma therapy for years. I like the clear and peace mixed together. The peace seems to help me sleep deeper and longer and the clear helps keep me from clogging up during the night.
If the DME doesn't get you the card, you can buy one at cpap.com, they aren't too expensive. You may have to call the DME several times to get what you need. Ask to speak to a manager and let them know that the RT isn't returning calls. I've even had to resort to calling corporate hdqtrs for my DME to get stuff done at times(squeeky wheel...). If all else fails call your insurance co and complain to them about no filters, etc.

Brenda

[newhosehead]

Am still so new to all of this.....do the cpap pillows with side "dents" or whatever help for side sleepers? What's with the aromatherapy? Does it make a difference? If you like the pillows, which one do you use? I finally got the manual that was supposed to come with my new machine, called the supplier and told them the machine came without any filters and no smartcard.therapist hasn't returned my calls .and 2 weeks of waiting and I still don't have the full face mask they promised for me

I bought a CPAP pillow from my DME for about $30 and consider it one of the best investments I made. I use a FF mask and cannot sleep on my back, the cutout in the pillow allows me to sleep very comfortably on my side and I am typically asleep in a matter of minutes. Lots of folks have recommended other types of pillows or arrangements, so I am just speaking for myself, obviously I guess!

As for your DME, I recommend getting assertive. I had to be very assertive and even my DH made some calls on my behalf. Two weeks of waiting is ridiculous. Get the manager on the phone and remember, they are a business and YOU are their customer.

Best wishes,
Jeanette

[Jersey Girl]

Dear Sleepyjan,

I am so sorry that you DME is taking such a long time to get back to you. That just isn't right! You may have to be very persistent.

I have (2) cpap pillows: I have a memory foam cpap pillow from http://www.contourliving.com. This has 2 cutouts on both bottom corners for the mask - so that you can turn on either side and have room for your mask. I also have a regenesis buckwheat hull cpap pillow from http://www.pursleep.com. (They also make the scents that you've heard about). The regenesis cpap pillow reminds me a little of a bean bag chair that we had when we were kids. You can use your hand to smooth out a space for the mask whereever you want that space to be. I find it to be very comfortable and helpful when I sleep with a nasal mask.

As to the aromatherapy, you can choose a scented oil from http://www.pursleep.com and order the pads and diffuser (a holder for the pads). Just a drop goes on the pad and you put it in the holder a few inches from your air intake behind your machine. The machine then picks up the scent. It can be very soothing, but if you put too much on, it can also be overpowering. Some people like it, some people don't.

Now, call your DME, ask to speak to a supervisor, and get your mask and filters right away! They should be helping YOU.

Warmly,

Jersey Girl

[sleepyjan]

update from jan.........the called me at 5 pm ...closing time ......"we have a new amsk for you.BUT .it's another nasal mask!.no mention of cards, filters or the full face mask I requested .......tomorrow, in person, they're not going to like hat I have to say........nor the fact that my inner upper lip is bloody from irritation.......
Thanks for the info, I think I'll order one of those pillows.can't seem to get the hang of sleeping anywhere but my side after almost 65 years!

[Bert_Mathews]

Am still so new to all of this.....do the cpap pillows with side "dents" or whatever help for side sleepers? What's with the aromatherapy? Does it make a difference? If you like the pillows, which one do you use?

First the PILLOW -- I have three different pillows in my closet of "SURE THINGS".... I have found that the Regenesis™ Pillow with its square edges hold my head & Mask the best
The "AROMATHERAPY" - - - I thinks its GREAT it takes your mind off the mask and lets it drift to better thoughts like open air or the country side ... and....sleep slips in faster. for the $30 its worth the try and it gives me about 50-60 nights of good sleep which I think is a good price.
http://www.pur-sleep.com

I finally got the manual that was supposed to come with my new machine, called the supplier and told them the machine came without any filters and no smartcard.therapist hasn't returned my calls .and 2 weeks of waiting and I still don't have the full face mask they promised for me, the nasal mask is still making my mouth sore as H.. but I am sleeping better...thanks for your advice and help...if I ever get the card that's supposed to come with this danged thing maybe I'll even know if I'm on the right settings etc.!

SORRY to here the SUPPLER / DME is screwing around but if you read the forum 99% of the people have had similar problems - "IT's your HEALTH and ONLY you can take care of it ---- So get your card and reader ask a zillion questions and learn to take you CPAP care in your hands.
Equipment & Supply's are cheaper to buy yourself that dealing with insurance - I have found?
GOOD LUCK & Just don't give up on your care,
BERT

[DoriC]

Am still so new to all of this.....do the cpap pillows with side "dents" or whatever help for side sleepers? What's with the aromatherapy? Does it make a difference? If you like the pillows, which one do you use? I finally got the manual that was supposed to come with my new machine, called the supplier and told them the machine came without any filters and no smartcard.therapist hasn't returned my calls .and 2 weeks of waiting and I still don't have the full face mask they promised for me

I bought a CPAP pillow from my DME for about $30 and consider it one of the best investments I made. I use a FF mask and cannot sleep on my back, the cutout in the pillow allows me to sleep very comfortably on my side and I am typically asleep in a matter of minutes. Lots of folks have recommended other types of pillows or arrangements, so I am just speaking for myself, obviously I guess!
Best wishes,
Jeanette

What is the name of the pillow you bought from your DME? I'm always looking for the "ultimate" pillow. thanks, Dori

[bailachel]

Has anyone tried those u shaped travel pillows? I was wondering if they would work since they are widely available and not expensive. Of course, if they don't work....