transport-sleep-apnea-scam

123.Shawn T.W. wrote:From my understanding of Trudgers "cheating the system" as he has been accused of is he tried it, but after laying in bed for four hours, and not sleeping ... Knowing that he HAD to get driving in six more hours ... He took the mask off and tried to get some sleep! ANY sleep is better thsn just laying there! Go back and re-read it!

Trudger wrote: ...THOSE are the reasons why I couldn't use the machine...

Problems with masks, including skin eruptions, claustrophobia, allergic reaction to materials, trouble having to "instantly" get used to the mask to stay in "compliance " with company policy, people have difficulty tolerating forced air, dry stuffy nose, drying of the sinus membranes, sinus pain, some patients have itchy feelings in ears, feelings of suffocation, mask leaks, acne ulcers, dry or watery eyes, difficulty falling asleep, dry mouth, burning tongue swollen tongue, common complaint of frequent bathroom trips and not being able to fall back to sleep for a while, tinnitus (humming in ears that doesn't go away, dizziness that may take several WEEKS to dissipate. Nightmare increases, feeling tired during the day associated SLEEP DISRUPTION/DEPRIVATION, chronic bronchitis , pneumonia, respiratory infections, sinus infections, restless leg syndrome and of course, though very rare, central apnea.

Ok, I used the machine while I was awake ( I wouldn't do it sleeping!)

Trudger wrote:Ok, the first thing to say is that I do not have sleep apnea, after being tested by a REAL M.D. (doctor, physician.)

I agreed, to play their game.

Trudger wrote:To answer the question about why I couldn't sleep the first 4 hours? Simple, as someone else pointed on here, forced air (machine kept changing pressure), reading the MAYO CLINIC's report about these machines and the possible side effects, which are (and there are more) some of the following

Problems with masks, including skin eruptions, claustrophobia, allergic reaction to materials, trouble having to "instantly" get used to the mask to stay in "compliance " with company policy, people have difficulty tolerating forced air, dry stuffy nose, drying of the sinus membranes, sinus pain, some patients have itchy feelings in ears, feelings of suffocation, mask leaks, acne ulcers, dry or watery eyes, difficulty falling asleep, dry mouth, burning tongue swollen tongue, common complaint of frequent bathroom trips and not being able to fall back to sleep for a while, tinnitus (humming in ears that doesn't go away, dizziness that may take several WEEKS to dissipate. Nightmare increases, feeling tired during the day associated SLEEP DISRUPTION/DEPRIVATION, chronic bronchitis , pneumonia, respiratory infections, sinus infections, restless leg syndrome and of course, though very rare, central apnea.

THOSE are the reasons why I couldn't use the machine…

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CPAP machines: Tips for avoiding 10 common problems
By Mayo Clinic staff
Original Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cpap/SL00017
CPAP machines: Tips for avoiding 10 common problems
CPAP is an important treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, but it's not without its frustrations. Learn how to avoid uncomfortable masks and other common CPAP problems.

By Mayo Clinic staff
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It includes a small machine that supplies a constant and steady air pressure, a hose, and a mask or nose piece. Common problems with CPAP include a leaky mask, trouble falling asleep, and a dry mouth or nose.

The good news is that if one CPAP mask or device doesn't work for you, you have other options. And most CPAP masks are adjustable, to help make them more comfortable for you. Here are 10 common CPAP problems and what you can do about them.

1. The wrong size or style CPAP mask

Work closely with your doctor and CPAP supplier to make sure you have a CPAP mask that suits your needs and fits you. Everyone has different needs and face shapes, so the right style and size mask for someone else may not work for you.

Many mask styles are available. A range of CPAP masks are available. For example, some feature full face masks that cover your mouth and nose, with straps that stretch across your forehead and cheeks. These may make some people feel claustrophobic, but they work well at providing a stable fit if you move around a lot in your sleep. Other masks feature nasal pillows that fit under your nose and straps that cover less of your face. These can feel less cumbersome. And they may work well if you wear glasses or read with the mask on, because some nasal pillow systems obstruct vision less than do full face masks. However, they may not work if you move around a lot in your sleep or sleep on your side.
Pay attention to size. Most masks come in different sizes. Just because you're a certain size in one mask doesn't mean you'll be the same size in another. CPAP masks are usually adjustable. Ask your doctor or CPAP supplier to show you how to adjust your mask to get the best fit. Manufacturer product instructions also can help show you how to do this.
2. Trouble getting used to wearing the CPAP device

It may help to start by practicing wearing just the CPAP mask for short periods of time while you're awake, for example while watching TV. Then try wearing the mask and hose with the air pressure on, still during the daytime, while you're awake. Once you become accustomed to how that feels, shift to using the CPAP device every time you sleep — at night and during naps. Inconsistently wearing the CPAP device may delay getting used to it. Stick with it for several weeks or more to see if the mask and pressure settings you have will work for you.

3. Difficulty tolerating forced air

You may be able to overcome this by using a "ramp" feature on the machine. This feature allows you to start with low air pressure, followed by an automatic, gradual increase in the pressure to your prescribed setting as you fall asleep. The rate of this ramp feature can be adjusted by your doctor.

If this doesn't help, talk with your doctor about changing to a different type of device that automatically adjusts the pressure while you're sleeping. For example, units that supply bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) or devices that have variable pressure contours are available. These provide more pressure when you inhale and less when you exhale.

4. Dry, stuffy nose

A CPAP device that features a heated humidifier, which attaches to the air pressure machine, can help. The level of humidification is adjustable. Using a nasal saline spray at bedtime also can help. Your doctor may prescribe a nasal steroid spray if your dryness doesn't respond to heated humidity. It's also important that your mask fit well. A leaky mask can dry out your nose.

5. Feeling claustrophobic

While you're awake, practice by first just holding the mask up to your face without any of the other parts. Once you're comfortable with that, try wearing the mask with the straps. Next, try holding on the mask and hose, without the straps, with the hose attached to the CPAP machine at a low pressure setting (turn the ramp feature on). And, finally, wear the mask with the straps and with the air pressure machine turned on while awake. After you're comfortable with that, try sleeping with it on.

Relaxation exercises, such as progressive muscle relaxation, also may help reduce your anxiety. If you're still feeling claustrophobic, talk to your doctor or CPAP supplier. It may help to get a different size mask or try a different style, such as one that uses nasal pillows.

6. Leaky mask, skin irritation or pressure sores

A leaky or ill-fitting mask means you're not getting the full air pressure you need, and you may be irritating your skin. It can also release air into your eyes, causing them to become dry or teary. Try adjusting pads and straps to get a better fit. If the device fits over your nose, make sure it doesn't sit too high on the bridge of your nose, which can direct air into your eyes.

You may need to ask your supplier to help you find a different size mask, particularly if your weight changes markedly, or try a different style device, such as a nasal pillow or a mask with an inflatable cushion that contours to your face. If you develop skin deterioration or sores, such as on your nose, tell your doctor promptly.

7. Difficulty falling asleep

This is a normal, temporary problem. Wearing the mask alone for some time during the day may help you get accustomed to how it feels. Using the ramp feature, which provides an automatic, gradual increase in the air pressure to your prescribed pressure setting as you fall asleep, also may help. And practice good general sleep habits — exercise regularly, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, and try to relax. For example, take a warm bath before you go to bed. Avoid going to bed until you're tired.

8. Dry mouth

If you breathe through your mouth at night or sleep with your mouth open, some CPAP devices may worsen dry mouth. A chin strap may help keep your mouth closed and reduce the air leak if you wear a nasal mask. A full-face-mask-style device that covers your mouth and nose also may work well for you. A CPAP-heated humidifier that attaches to the air pressure machine also may help.

9. Unintentionally removing the CPAP device during the night

It's normal to sometimes wake up to find you've removed the mask in your sleep. If you move a lot in your sleep, you may find that a full face mask will stay on your face better. You may be pulling off the mask because your nose is congested. If so, ensuring a good mask fit and adding a CPAP-heated humidifier may help. A chin strap also may help keep the device on your face. If this is a consistent problem, consider setting an alarm for sometime in the night, to check whether the device is still on. You could progressively set the alarm for later in the night if you find you're keeping the device on longer.

10. Annoyed by the noise

Most new models of CPAP devices are almost silent, but if you find a device's noise is bothersome, first check to make sure the device air filter is clean and unblocked. Something in its way may be contributing to noise. If this doesn't help, have your doctor or CPAP supplier check the device to ensure it's working properly. If the device is working correctly and the noise still bothers you, try wearing earplugs or using a white-noise sound machine to mask the noise.

Time and patience key to success

Using a CPAP device can be frustrating as you try to get used to it, but it's important you stick with it. The treatment is essential to avoiding obstructive sleep apnea-related complications, such as heart problems and daytime fatigue. Work with your doctor and CPAP supplier to ensure the best fit and device for you, and try making adjustments if you're experiencing some of the common CPAP problems. It may take several months to find the correct settings for you and to adapt to the mask. With time and patience, CPAP can positively affect your quality of life and health.

References
SL00017 Nov. 15, 2011
© 1998-2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

Trudger wrote:Nate,

I'm sorry to see that you are one of those people who have been "conditioned" about sleep apnea, or rather forced sleep apnea treatment. There are other treatments out there besides the machines, and you know that.

You are just one of those "devil's advocate" types of personalities that usually make not one ounce of sense, other than the dribble you hear in your own head. I can dish it as well as I get it. So, to your statement, I say this: Again, for the billionth time (exaggerating) YES, I refused, YES I decided to play their game, which is what I found it to be.

No, Nate, I will not post any medical report on here, just for the simple fact that I don't have to produce anything, as an American. This is not a communist country, contrary to how you may desire to see it. I have my new 2 year, full-qualified DOT medical card, with NO sleep apnea. To let you know, even though I'm not obligated to, my sleep study showed only 7 times of no breathing, with 43% of time spent in REM sleep. I dreamed too.

Trudger wrote:Robots.