This is indeed the case. I'm currently trying to get a referral through my PCP.alnhwrd wrote:If you had the surgery after your sleep study, it is possible that your pressure needs have changed, probably increased, significantly. If it were me and money were not an issue, I would have a new sleep study done. This will give a brand new prescription which is required to buy machines and masks, and is good for life once you get a copy for yourself.
Thank you so much for the information. I will put it to good use while researching my options.alnhwrd wrote:I would also get a newer, quieter machine, since it sounds like that is an issue for you. The S8 Autoset II and M Series Auto with A-flex are both excellent machines that give good treatment. Hose covers help, as does hose management to bring the hose down from the top of your bed to your head. This allows you to move freely back and forth without getting hung up. I use a series of Command hooks on the wall to bring the hose to the top of my headboard and from their down. This works great for me. There are lots of masks out there, probably more than five years ago. If you find a friendly health care equipment provider they might let you try some different types of masks to see which suit you best. There is also a site called cpapauction.com which will let you by slightly used or surplus masks from people for less than retail prices.
Already doing it my friend. That is what ultimately brought me to these forums. My machine and equipment are from the stone age looking at some of the newer options on the market. However, I am already using the torture device in CPAP clothing and in doing so, I feel more alert and rested. Now to find a quiet machine, a comfortable mask or two and some hose paraphernalia to make my life a bit more comfortable and my sleep a lot more restful.alnhwrd wrote: You could also try to use your old machine, just to give yourself a jump on getting used to CPAP again. Even if 8 cm won't eliminate your apneas, it could reduce them. Just trying to use it, even on weekends, might be helpful, since it could take some time to get your new equipment. You could put your machine on the floor, or in a nightstand drawer, or in a modified stryofoam cooler to reduce the noise, or try some white noise, which is what I do. The only caveat is that if you start to struggle, continue with your plan to get the new sleep study and equipment, which if properly set up should help you more.
BTW, looking through all my paperwork, I came across my sleep study and re-read it. It reads like a Boris Karloff movie except the ending more grim. I've been exercising more regularly and feel that I'm getting back into shape (well other than pear shape). I'm hoping my new sleep study will be a marked improvement over the original.
Keep the suggestions/comments coming...
NO SLEEP FOR YOU!
