New user No success yet

Good morning- I have had my CPAP machine for 3 nights. I was not able to get comfortable the first 2 nights so I took it off after an hour. Last night I fell asleep 3 times with it on and woke up choking on my tongue and took it off in frustration after an hour. Should I keep trying or should I talk to my doctor? The pressure is set at 4... maybe it needs to be increased?

Here is the way I look at it. If you buy a CPAP machine on your own, they come factory set at min 4 and max 20. If you go to a doctor and he sets you up with a sleep study ($3000?) they determine that you need a CPAP and often have you come back for a second titration to determine the best pressure for you. $$?? You then go back to your doctor where he tells you that you need a CPAP machine. He sends a prescription to a DME who supposedly sets the machine to the doctors prescription. You take it home and find that the machine is set to min 4 and max 20...just like it came from the manufacturer. Most people find it difficult to breathe at a pressure of 4. Now this is not true of every situation, but it happens a lot. I suggest that you go to your Control Panel in the upper left corner and fill in your equipment for starters.

I agree with LSAT. The lower setting of 4 is awfully low. Most folks find comfort between a 6 and 8. Please fill out your profile so we know what type of equipment you are using.
There are a lot of folks start out the way you are starting out. You have to be determined and train yourself to keep it on all night.

Most folks do not experience success after two nights. I fought the mask for at least two weeks before my body gave in and allow me to wear the mask all night. You can do this. Wearing the mask can add 10 -15 years to your life, plus you'll feel better.

Sheriff

FosterStone wrote: ↑

Mon May 04, 2020 5:08 am

FosterStone

Welcome to the forum!

Please fill out your equipment profile - https://www.cpaptalk.com/ucp.php?i=prof ... pment_info

Please read the first sticky at the top of the index page.

Hello and thanks for the feedback. I added my equipment to my profile... airsense 10 CPAP with a airfit f30i face mask. Will try sleeping on my side tonight. I think that is worth a shot!

FosterStone wrote: ↑

Mon May 04, 2020 7:18 am

airsense 10 CPAP

That's a straight CPAP. The AirSense 10 AutoSet works better for most people. Are you sure you don't have an AutoSet? If so, correct your equipment profile.

I checked and it is the CPAP version... not the autoset. Should I ask for an upgrade?

FosterStone wrote: ↑

Mon May 04, 2020 7:45 am

I checked and it is the CPAP version... not the autoset. Should I ask for an upgrade?

It's very unusual to be prescribed a straight CPAP set at a pressure of 4.0 cm H2O. I would speak to the doctor.

And, an AutoSet is usually able to deliver better results. Pressure needs vary throughout the night and from night to night. The AutoSet will adjust the pressure while you sleep.

You're getting great advice from others: try to swap the CPAP out for a ResMed Airsense 10 Autoset, and in the meantime raise your pressure. I think you are right to try sleeping on your sides if you can.

I'd also suggest that you set your machine up during the day outside your bedroom and use it while you do something pleasant and distracting, like reading or watching TV. This will speed up the process of adaptation.

FosterStone wrote: ↑

Mon May 04, 2020 5:08 am

Good morning- I have had my CPAP machine for 3 nights. I was not able to get comfortable the first 2 nights so I took it off after an hour. Last night I fell asleep 3 times with it on and woke up choking on my tongue and took it off in frustration after an hour. Should I keep trying or should I talk to my doctor? The pressure is set at 4... maybe it needs to be increased?

Wow. After reading your replies to others' questions, it's no wonder you're gasping for air. They've given excellent suggestions. Congratulations on taking control of your own therapy! When you're in charge, you're more likely to succeed.

Welcome!

Chris

ChicagoGranny wrote: ↑

Mon May 04, 2020 7:51 am

FosterStone wrote: ↑

Mon May 04, 2020 7:45 am

I checked and it is the CPAP version... not the autoset. Should I ask for an upgrade?

It's very unusual to be prescribed a straight CPAP set at a pressure of 4.0 cm H2O. I would speak to the doctor.

And, an AutoSet is usually able to deliver better results. Pressure needs vary throughout the night and from night to night. The AutoSet will adjust the pressure while you sleep.

I agree the straight CPAP isn't good ....and the APAP is the way to go.. especially with obstructive apnea, varible pressures are needed to keep you airway clear.

correct if I'm wrong.