Now that I'm past 1,000 Hours

Recently I passed the 1,000 hour mark, and have been 100% compliant, except for two nights without sleep while traveling to and from Maine on a recent trip (by the way, I wasn't driving, just not sleeping).

I still have a lot to learn, but here's what I've learned so far:

Believe everyone when they say masks are important and unique to the individual. I've come to believe that a successful mask fit is a greater predictor of success than the machines that we use.

That being said, obviously machines are important, so get the best one that you can, and in spite of some of the medical professionals who scoff at the quality of our machine's data, rest assured that data capability is still better than replying, "I guess I'm feeling o.k.", and letting the doctor call that successful treatment.

Your therapy may bounce up and down, but that's better than the alternatives. Overall, I'm feeling better than I was a few months ago, but I still have my bad days, and I've learned that poor sleep has contributed to poor sleep habits--so I'm having to make some lifestyle changes as well.

Keep connected with others who understand what CPAP is all about. That's the benefit of cpaptalk.com. Make use of the wisdom and resources available here, and spread the word, you'll be far ahead of other patients as well as many sleep professionals.

Take your therapy seriously, but don't get too serious about your therapy. Poke a little fun at yourself. On trips, I tell roommates that I'm a "fighter-pilot" in my sleep--so be prepared to see my mask and hear the rush of wind.

And finally if you have a good doctor (like I do), DME (my DME's so-so), or other sleep professional (I never met my sleep doctor, but my insurance paid her quickly) working with you, let them know that you appreciate them. They're a gem, and from what I've read on this forum, like any gem they're pretty rare and hard to find.

Just my 2 cents (or in this U.S. economy, just my 1/2 cent).

You are SO RIGHT ON, JAT!!!!! Excellent post and advice. I agree w/you 101% And then some.

Congratulations on 1000 hours of xpaping!!

Your post is excellent and should be required reading.

Congratulations, John!

You know, from here on out, those "mile markers" will start flying by.

Best wishes for continued good sleep and therapy.

Den