Still terrified (of getting started)

[napnean]

New patient, AHI 18.5, mouth breather, snore index 105/hour. I'm hoping to get a sense of how I'll know when I'm ready to meet with the RT for my fitting. They are waiting, but that Medicare compliance clock that begins ticking the moment I accept equipment has me at a dead stop. The other thing is that I only get one hour to meet with the RT, try on masks, learn how to set up and maintain and clean everything, and write it all down, because my memory sucks. Doesn't seem like nearly enough to me, and I do not know what will happen if I'm not feeling 'done' at the end of that hour. There are so many ways to make a mistake with equipment choices. Somehow, although I keep reading about being able to return masks within 30 days, I've been told by 2 DMEs that I only get to do that once. My face is not an average shape, (very narrow and small female) so this scares me too. The machine itself also is an issue. My choices seem to be between a) having to taxi a data card around while maybe or maybe not having my own software, and b) having a modem that only gives data to the DME, with a promise that I can phone every day if I want for the info. Can I believe this promise? I trust you guys more than any DME to select my equipment, so how about it -- suggestions, please! And many thanks.

[Pugsy]

although I keep reading about being able to return masks within 30 days, I've been told by 2 DMEs that I only get to do that once.

The 30 day thing is actually something that the mask manufacturers offer but DMEs often set their own "in house" rules because they don't want to mess with swapping out masks.
You really should be able to swap out as often as you need within the 30 days for each mask... until you find a mask that will suit you.
Some DMEs actually will do it right and not limit you to a "once" only swap. Doesn't sound like the 2 that you checked with want to to do the mask thing like it was intended by the mask manufacturers. It's unfortunate but that is what happens often.

Don't let the RT or DME people rush you. They work for you. If they don't want to take the time to make sure that all your questions are answered to your satisfaction...then they don't deserve your business. Vote with your pocketbook and go elsewhere.
If you have traditional Medicare your choices for suppliers should be fairly extensive unless you live in a rural area with limited suppliers.

[Sir NoddinOff]

CPAP treatment could literally be one of the best things to come into your life. I'd personally be more terrified of not starting CPAP or backing out prematurely. Keep us posted and ask for help if you need it.

[CPAPhope]

I agree with Sir Noddinoff. You are anticipating problems that may not even occur. You must get started in order to come to some conclusions. I met with an RT for an hour, and he had me on the right machine, mask, instructed, and ready to go. It's not that complicated. Go for it. Every journey begins with a single step. Good Luck.

[cosmo]

Use that time to find a good fitting mask.

Have someone else take notes?

[bilgerat57]

CPAP's are not nearly as intimidating in reality as they are in anticipation. Don't let them scare you into inaction. You have lots of time to learn about how to view and interpret the data, the most important thing is that you do get started with the therapy. Voice your concerns with the respiratory therapist (RT). If he/she doesn't seem interested in helping you, go elsewhere! RT's are a bit like cops....most of them are good, but the bad ones get the attention. There's a world of good information on this site and apneaboard.com Both are free so be sure to take advantage of the knowledge that's available. Good luck and be sure to keep in touch!

[napnean]

Thank you all for your excellent, thoughtful replies. Attitude adjustment in progress!

[chunkyfrog]

Starting the mask was way easier than starting insulin.
I must have stared at that needle for 10 minutes--I'm such a chicken.
With cpap, I was motivated by a desperate need for sleep without the hangover.
I fought masks for quite a while; when they don't like me, they know how to hurt me.
With my cloth mask, it's all good, now.

[napnean]

Oh, yes, Chunkyfrog, the cloth mask! I'd almost forgotten about that option. Thanks.

[jzap]

The DME will probably have you try on several masks while sitting around a conference table. Be sure to lay down. When you lay down, your face shape changes (gravity, what a concept!!!). What seals pretty well sitting up may not work at all laying down.

Good luck!!!

[DoriC]

http://maskarrayed.wordpress.com/what-y ... me-part-i/

This might be of some help to you before you meet with the DME. Having some knowledge beforehand will empower you so read all you can here. Don't be intimidated, you're their customer and they want your business but on your terms,not theirs. I know it's easier said than done but just know we've all been through this. Finding this forum before I got my husband's equipment gave me the confidence I needed to get what I wanted. Good luck and keep us posted.

[JamesW6175]

Check out the equipment that I use, I would recommend it. I am a side & stomach sleeper and use a CPAP pillow with the cutout on the side(really helps). The ResMed equipment has a option like a cell phone transmitter that sends my data to a collection point that the DME has access to & sends it on to my sleep doctor. Also has a SD card in the back of the unit which I can use to check my progress on my home computer. There is software out on the Internet that will read this data card and produce a report that you can see/check. Hope this helps.