QUESTIONS

Hi,
I started Cpap 4 weeks ago. Sleeping with the CPap machine is an effort, but I know that I need it and I am determined to make this work I sleep for approximately 4- 5 hours steady. One of my problems is that it takes me 1 to 2 hours to fall asleep on average, everything seems to magnify while I'm trying to sleep. I am a side sleeper and very restless. I was given a Snapp mask initially by DME and after continually complaining about its comfort and leaks for a week and waiting for another 2 weeks was given Swift Mask to try. . I found it more comfortable but the noise from the air seems so loud, it is difficult to fall asleep.

I have been reading the threads of this forum and due to all of your comments I realized that I needed to ask more questions and have more control. Unfortunately this DME was not very receptive to responding to telephone calls or questions. I spoke to my sleep doctor’s office manager and asked if my physician could order an auto CPAP machine for me and told her of the problems I was having with the DME She immediately offered to assist me in changing my DME and the physician wrote a new prescription for an Auto CPAP machine.. I will be seeing another DME tomorrow. Their respiratory therapist called me today and when I told him about the problems with my masks – he seems to be pushing the Comfort Select Mask. .He stated he did not like the Comfortlite 2 because it is plastic. I am very claustrophobic and have some concerns about this other mask. Although, he did state I could try any mask for 3 days and then swap if I didn’t like it. Can you please advise what questions I should be asking him tomorrow? I do know that my new machine will be a Remstar Auto with Heated humidifier.

Sorry to be so longwinded here.

I think you did very well to get the Remstar Auto with C-Flex and the heated humidifier. Do you know what your pressure range will be? As I'm sure you've read in other posts, be sure to get the original prescription from your doctor. The DME only needs a copy. But should you ever travel and have a major problem with your machine, you might need the prescription.

I've used the CL2 with simple cushion for over 4 months and have had no problem with the quality of the mask. Yes, it has plastic parts, but so do they all!!!!! The CL2 is very comfortable and I do not find it claustrophobic in the least. It does need an extra strap for stability, but it seems nearly all the masks of this type (hose coming down over the head) need that extra support. Look for posts by Rested Gal -- she is THE expert around here and there are several posts where she lists links to various discussions about the "pantyhose" fix. There are a couple of posts of mine during the past few weeks where I describe the extra strap I made for my CL2. If you can indeed try any mask for three days and then exchange it, go for it. Getting the right mask for YOU is probably the most important aspect of successful therapy.

Other questions might include what the costs to you will be after insurance pays their part. The RT will probably not be able to answer that question, but she/he should be able to give you the name and phone number of the person who can. How often can you get a new mask, new nasal pillows, other supplies?

I'm afraid I'm drawing a blank on other questions to ask. Seems like there should be a bunch. Perhaps someone else will post some other ideas. Good luck.

Hi Linda,
Thanks for the advice, I will follow through on your suggestions. I"m unsure of what the pressure range will be and will definitely be asking that question. I am currently set at 12. My goal with the auto was to monitor my own response to the machine and reset as necessary.
Once again, thank you
Seena