new with Sleep Apena/questions

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
Sleeyp-me

new with Sleep Apena/questions

Post by Sleeyp-me » Sun Sep 19, 2004 4:26 pm

Hi Everyone

I'm new to this forum, and to sleep apena.
Just started using my Remstar C-flex, level at 9, with Respironics humidifier. Started on Sept. 10. this past week I have pulled nasal mask off, so much wonder why I even bother. Some nights when I suddenly wake up, off comes the mask, and I don't won't to put it back on, knowing I'll wake up an hour or two and do the same thing. Last night after a very active day, I started out with the mask, woke after couple hours, was able to finish the night without the mask.

I've read other post, people saying if you lose weight (I need to lose 40 lbs), it might help eliminate the machine.

My question is this, if I wake up 3 to 4 times a night without the C-flex, and wake as often with the C-flex why bother with it???

Thanks

joecpaper

New user, old problems

Post by joecpaper » Mon Sep 20, 2004 8:11 am

There is an adjustment time when you first start cpap therapy. I know it can be frustrating, but hang in there. It took me about over a month before I could sleep more than 3 hours with a mask on. I would just rip the mask off.

Try adjusting the C-Flex settings to see if that helps, but usage over time is the best solution. You just have to get your body use to it and make it part of your routine. Keep on trying and don;t give up, the benefits will out weigh the problems you have now.

Joe

Sleepy-me

Thanks

Post by Sleepy-me » Mon Sep 20, 2004 11:39 am

Thanks joecpaper,

It's when I first wake pull mask off, then I don't want to put it back on.

On my preliminary report, my oxygen saturation was baseline 93, average 89.5 lowest 86. Do you know what that is considered?? I had moderate results with the apnea/hypopnea.

I don't understand all that, and doctor did not explain it, as I was balking at the thought of having to have the problem. Let alone use a mask to help my sleeping.

Thanks

User avatar
JudyAnn
Posts: 195
Joined: Thu Sep 09, 2004 8:32 am

Post by JudyAnn » Tue Sep 21, 2004 9:20 am

Hi Sleepy-Me,

You have only been on the CPAP therapy for 10 days. I started July 20th of this year and after 6 weeks, I finally kept the mask on all night. It takes time to get used to this new "bed buddy" as I call it and I was changed from a CPAP to an AutoPap machine because the high pressure all of a sudden was too much to take. Also, I got a chin strap because I was opening my mouth during the night and it caused desert mouth and choking. Today I am finally getting a new mask (ResMed Swift Pillow System) which I am axious to try....not so much stuff on your face. Although I have a wonderful soft mask (Mirage Activa) but I want to try a nasal pillow system and Ted Titrator says he loves his.

So, it takes a lot of time, patience, trying new ways, masks, etc. to finally get comfortable with this way of life. I did the same thing as you did but I was so determined to conquer this that everytime I tore it off, I forced myself to put it back on until I eventually conquered it. It takes a lot of patience so don't give up and keep trying. You will do it!

My Best to you and Wishes for a full night's sleep with your new "Bed Buddy".

Judy

Sleepy-me

Thanks Judy

Post by Sleepy-me » Wed Sep 22, 2004 7:28 am

I'm using the Pillow mask, at times it feels like it's pulling my nose in the air. Now have it duct taped in place. the velcro straps don't seem to hold every thing in place. I have mask and hose taped to fit my head. Was set up for #9 pressure, able to use the plane, to start out with pressure of 4.
Now trying to get the hose to stay in place from machine to me, when I first go to bed.

Thanks for the information. It does take some doing on my part, to put the mask back on when I get up during the night.

Hope to get copy of my sleep study this week, then I'll know more. Can't see how they could arrive at my having sleep-apnea when I coughed all night during the test.

Jan