HELP CPAP question (and sleep apnea question)

Hi everyone! Ok, So I had my first sleep test and was diagnosed with SEVERE sleep apnea. I stopped breathing over 600 times! So last night I went back to the sleep lab to use the CPAP machine and get my pressure dosage and let me say it was HORRIBLE!! I was tried on four or five different masks but none of them were staying in because I am a side sleeper. Also, I kept choking becuase my mouth would open. They gave me a chin strap and that seemed to help alot. I could not tolerate the full face mask at all (too claustrophobic(sp)) I only wound up sleeping for about two hours. When I finally fell asleep, something happened and I got a huge gush of air which made me pull the mask off fast. I am really worried that I wont/cant get used to the CPAP. My pulseox was under 70, I have two kids, and I really don't want to have a heart attack and die. I am hoping to have surgery by the end of the summer. THis long story leads to my question for those with CPAP and/or severe apnea -- what type of mask/nose pillows (??) do you use and how did you get use to the machine. I would especially like to hear from side sleepers as this seemed to be my biggest problem, every time I turned on my side the stupid nose thing would unseal. If it helps any the tech said my setting would be 10 or 11. ANY AND ALL HELP IS GREATLY APPRECIATED Thanks again, Angela

i am a side sleeper and use full mask...i have no problems, sounds like maybe your mask needed adjustment ,maybe tighter.i lost 160 pounds and still have mild sleep apnea you will get use to it, it takes time.gradually you will build up to it.you have to keep your mouth closed,and breathe through your nose,again it takes practice,just do what you can,and eventually you will get used to it.

I had the med supply company come out with different masks and let me try them. Read my profile about the apnea. I had no choice but to get used to it, do it and stick to it or the same thing will happen to you that happened to me. Good luck Hugs Linda

Hello Angela, I hate to hear your having problems. I quickly learned to sleep on my back. I was never a back sleeper. It didn't take me long. I used the full front mask. I had to use the chin straps for about 6 months then I didn't need it anymore. I used my cpap for about 4 years. After I lost about 100 pounds I was able to stop using it. It was a world of difference when I did have to use it. I slept all night long and felt so rested. I had to use lots of pillows to get comfortable. I used two under my head, one under my back and two under my feet. Good luck and best wishes on your journey. Diana 379/175/?

As sad as it is, I had to laugh! I too have sleep apnea and just got my cpap machine a few weeks ago. I asked for the "pillow" and it seems to be ok. I start the night with it, and yet, every morning I wake w/o it on! It seems I take it off at 4 am and then even turn the machine off. I sleep on my belly. Everyone tells me to just keep using it, and eventually it will become second nature. I didnt care for the mask, and the nurse at the center told me to try the pillow. Not sure about your insurance, but mine just covers a new face thing once a year. Maybe buy a pillow? My surgery is tomorrow, and have to take my machine with me. Yuck!! (btw - i am set on 6)

I tried several kinds and chose the one that's like an oxygen cannula....not a full face mask. It has these little rubber things that seal against the nostrils. I also have severe apnea of about the same level as you, and found this one to be the most comfortable, and the least claustrophobic for me. It took a couple of nights to get used to it, but now I LOVE it, because I sleep so much better and don't have days full of confusion, falling askeep talking to people, and irritability. The adjustment period is VERY worth the benefit, in my opinion. Good luck - don't give up

Angela, I dont know if I can hel*****t, but I can tell you of my own experience with the Cpap machine and the mask. I am a side and a tummy sleeper. I am claustrophobic (sp too!) So when I first got fit for the mask, I did not like any other them. They recommened the one that I use now, and it is ok. As good as a mask can be. It is called the comfort gel mask ? The nose peice is triangular, and it is made of a soft gel material, very comfortable..... it has a strap over the top of your head, little one, and a chin strap too. It is not bad!!!! I find myself starting out taking it off in the middle if the night, but once you get used to it, it is not that bad. I also have mine on cool air, Ican not do the hot air... You might also want to ask if there can adjust the air flow, lower it until you get used to it, and then gradually move it up. These are my suggestions to you, I hope this has helped you some. This is the place to come when you need HELP that is for sure...Have a great Day!Good luck, just keep trying, it will get better, I promise.

Angela, I had to get a machine just prior to surgery. My setting is/was "9". I got a CPAP with a humidifier and a mask that didn't get in the way - it has little rubbery nubbies that just go in my nostrils. The brand name of the mask was "Mirage" and it was a "Swift" mask with air pillows. Hope this helps Take Care, Terry

Hi Angela...yes, the dang cpap is sure something to tweak and get used to. BUT, it is so incredibly valuable to treat your sleep apnea. You owe it to yourself to find just the right equipment that you will be comfortable with. Try the "nasal pillows". I have seen them talked about on this board. I, myself, used a gel mask by Respironics that was just fine for me. I also learned to sleep on my back, which helped greatly. You are right...you need to be here for your precioius children. I hope you can find the right mask/nasal pillows for you. Hugs, Joy

Im also trying to get used to the cpap machine, I have a sore between my eyes as we speak. The new mask Im trying is Flexi Fit 431 full face mask, it seems more comfortable. I dont like the pressure building up because I feel too claustraphobic... I put it on full pressure for me (what they set me on 15) I think I am telling a diffrence, If I can just get the tightness adjusted with no leaks but not hurting my face or head May 22nd I will be adjusted to it and getting surgery...I would like to know other peoples settings... the lady at the medical equipment place said 15 was high