Sleeping issues & CPAP

[WorrypasCanada]

Hello,

For the past months, from others, I've had sleep issues: waking up about every 2-3 hours. Often, I'm awaken by these repeated symptoms: swollen and warm hands, with some numbness (night only). I've got no issues falling asleep.

Been using CPAP (near 100% time) since July 2004 (light apnea). Currently using Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear (December 2011 purchase), with Respironics M Series Auto CPAP Machine with C-Flex, including HoseBuddy Tangle Free CPAP Hose Suspension System, and Puresom Ruby Adjustable Chinstrap.

I do use and renew the following Control III Disinfectant CPAP Cleaning Solution, In-line Outlet Bacteria Filter for CPAP
Reusable, Black Foam Filter, and Disposable White Fine Filters. In addition, several months ago, I've restarted using the Heated Humidifier, with distilled water (changed daily).

To rule out causes, I've had repeated multiple blood tests (mononucleosis, cholesterol, thyroid, etc.), CT-Scans and X-Rays (sinus, lungs), cardiogram, etc., the works, almost. Every results were normal, except for slight difference with heart beating in one side, a little leak with one valve, and another little issue that I forget symptoms. I even had my CPAP memory card checked a few times by my sleep specialist (everything normal, exemplary).

What should I rule out next?

Thanks in advance for all replies.

[jamiswolf]

Worry...
Sometimes arm and hand problems can be tracked down to neck issues. I'd see about having a cervical spine exam and X-ray. Also there's a weird syndrome related to upper ribs that can impinging on arm circulation. Called thoracic outlet syndrome. Could be because of cpap, you tend to sleep in odd positions or could be totally unrelated. That's what I would do if it were me. You really should be asking your Doctor about this. Internet medical advice is worth about as much as you pay for it...
J

[Papit]

You might try lowering the room temperature some and/or a lighter blanket. See if it helps. Let us know.

[WorrypasCanada]

Thanks,

About my swollen and warm hands, with some numbness (night only), these symptoms are not severe.

[nedi]

Yeah, these symptoms may be traced to neck because several cranial nerves and a thoracic nerve spread out to feed your arm through what's called your brachial plexus. I would try some simple changes first like switching pillows, easing the pressure of CPAP strap, stuff like that. Just to see. Go see a Doc if this doesn't help.

[WorrypasCanada]

Thanks all!

Last night, I had the same issues again with my hands. This time, out of reflex, I touch my head and necks to feel position. What I notice is that my head was tilted forward. Yes, I do have an very good Obus form pillow. It appears to be in good condition.

This morning, I've explored Internet information on pillows. Will invest quickly in Obus or Tempur-pedic. Any suggestions on past postings on this forum?

Best!

[Papit]

Thanks all!

Last night, I had the same issues again with my hands. This time, out of reflex, I touch my head and necks to feel position. What I notice is that my head was tilted forward. Yes, I do have an very good Obus form pillow. It appears to be in good condition.

This morning, I've explored Internet information on pillows. Will invest quickly in Obus or Tempur-pedic. Any suggestions on past postings on this forum?

Best!

I twice over the years had neck vertibrae problems (now resolved). As part of treatment (a doc prescribed Valium both times which after 2 or 3 weeks relieved muscular tightness between C5 and 6 vertibrae that had been causing tingling in my left left thumb and forefinger). (Before that, both docs took two months of our time trying various anti-inflammatory drugs that did not work at all.)

I also began using a neck roll (rubber foam material 2 3/8" diameter and about 18" long left to right, or you can roll up a hand towel to those dimensions and hold it together with tape or rubber bands to try it). It elevates my chin so my head is not tilted forward and down like you are describing. I think it relieves neck vertibrae pressures that my former sleeping head position may have caused or exaserbated. Hope it works for you in relieving your difficulties.