New CPAP user

Hi everyone! I've had my machine for a little over 3 weeks and I started noticing a difference within the first week. I'm not taking a nap as soon as I get home from work anymore, which had become a routine thing this past year, although I'm sure I've had OSA for at least 3 yrs. I'm not snacking all day, which I've attributed to "needing" the food for the little energy I would get out of it. I'm not falling asleep as a passenger in the car, which would always happen in less than 10 minutes in the car and more importantly, I'm not having trouble as a driver either. I had been "zoning out" while driving either to or from work almost every day. I was initially dignosed last Nov, although in denial and put off the sleep study with the cpap, the final step. I was convinced that I would just simply lose the weight that had crept back on me the past 2 yrs and I would be "cured " of this sleep apnea thing. But little did I know that losing the weight this time as opposed to 5 yrs ago was not as easy as I had thought it would be, so I gave in and am now so happy that I did!! I think my body wasn't able to lose the weight b/c of OSA not the other way around. Anyone else find that to be true? The only down side to this whole thing is, I really miss sleeping on my stomach. I have tried the nasal pillow (my RT was nice and gave me 3 different masks), but it pushes my nose up too far and I don't want to look like a pug. I like the ultra mirage II nasal mask, its pretty comfortable, but feel like it is losing its seal, have to be more diligent in washing it everyday. Also, I know I'm grinding or clenching my teeth now, will invest in a night guard. I never slept with my mouth closed before, I know that b/c of all the drool that would be on my pillow is gone. Its amazing that you manage to keep your mouth close with the mask on, maybe I'm subconscientiously aware that it needs to be kept closed. Well more to come...

Congratulations and welcome to the wonderful world of hoseheads. Glad to hear that you had immediate results. I've been doing this now for 3 mos. and I think I'm finally starting to notice a difference.

You're in good hands here. There is a wealth of knowledge here to be shared by everyone. If it weren't for the people here, I don't know what I would do. I learned alot and because of that, I am now able to manage my own therapy, as most people here aim to do.

Good luck and Happy xPap'ing !!!

Welcome to the forum. Hang out here and do lots of reading. There's a wealth of information here under the CPAPopedia and FAQ buttons and search functions (above).
You may find that as your body gets more oxygen, it will help in losing weight. It may not be quickly, as in diets, but will probably stay off. I've found that I eat less at meals now and have lost some weight.
I can't make any recommendations about stomach-sleeping as I've always been a side-sleeper, but I'm sure there are others here who can.

Best wishes,

Den