Newbie Questions

[Invader_Zim]

Hi Everyone, after a few tries I was finally able to get my doctor to agree to a sleep test (sidenote: has anyone had issues in the past dealing with sleep centers, they seem like the WORST at communication?) I have been fighting to get this done for a couple years now after I had exhausted every other option. I did two nights in home and then two in the sleep lab and finally after asking for results a lady suddenly called and came by friday with a resmed s9. They didn't give me any data on how my tests went (probably badly it felt like I hardly slept at all) so I cant post anything useful about that. The lady came with a nasal mask but suggested we try the nasal pillows instead (I did not handle the full face mask well in the sleep center and also I have a full beard/moustache).
This seems to work ok except when I fall asleep my mouth opens up and it wakes me up. I'm going to ask for a chinstrap Monday since they aren't open on the weekends.

I tried using medical tape to tape my mouth shut in the meantime (anybody else tried this?) and while that seemed to work from keeping my mouth open I still kept waking up except with the feeling like I wasn't getting enough air through my nose. Also, a bit more of a minor annoyance but the pressure seems to plug up my ears like I'm on an airplane (I'm at a 10 if that helps, they set that and told me I am not allowed to change it).
Would a different mask help this or am I doing something wrong? It's messing with my sleep so I end up taking it off partway through the night because I can't stand it but the lady said it was very important I try to use it every night initally as they are monitoring it through some cellular device that plugs into the back of the unit.

I welcome your questions and comments, thanks!

[kaiasgram]

zim, welcome to the forum.

First: Please register for the forum and then let us know which S9 machine you have (there are several machines in the S9 series). The name will be right above the Start/Stop button (in this photo it's the Autoset):


Next: there are many discussions about mouth taping -- type "taping" in the search box.

The machine takes some getting used to. To familiarize yourself with the menus and comfort options (ramp, climate control, exhale pressure relief [EPR]) you might want to check out the brief video tutorial that I've linked to in my signature box. (Don't tell "the lady" that you know how to do this )

You are entitled to a copy of your sleep study report as well as a copy of your CPAP prescription. It's a good idea to have both in your possession. Your doctor's office should be able to provide them to you.

When you register for the forum you can then list your equipment (including your mask) and we'll be in a better position to help you out with getting this crazy therapy going for you.

[Pugsy]

Try the next size up in the nasal pillows if you can. It can make a difference in the air movement so won't feel so stifling.
For the ear thing...try doing what you would do in an airplane to release the ear pressure.

For more specific ideas it would help if we knew exactly which mask and machine and the settings.

[Invader_Zim]

Ok I think I have it filled out now. I have a resmed S9 Elite with a H5i humidifier. I called the supplier today and they are mailing me out a chinstrap. I'm still having trouble keeping my mouth closed though, I tried to tape and it kind of works but I think I'm drooling in my sleep and its causing the medical tape not to stick to my face. Also thanks for the video link the EPR on my machine was set to off (and I didn't know what it did) its now much easier to breathe not feeling like I have to force the air out of my nose all the time. I'm going to try the new settings plus the larger pillows tonight to see how it goes.