1. < Sleep Health

Sleep Apnea and adjusting to a CPAP machine: Tips?

Posted by vickiw @vickiw, Sep 24, 2016

I'm confused on what to do on CPAP. I hate it and am trying to find a dentist that will take my insurance for a dental device. What would happen if I stop using my CPAP while I'm waiting for one?

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flor | @flor | Oct 4, 2016
In reply to @jimhd "I don't remember when I started using a CPAP (around 15 years ago), but it made..." + (show)
@jimhd

I don't remember when I started using a CPAP (around 15 years ago), but it made a significant difference in my life from the first night. I averaged over 12 hours of sleep every day for the first month. I was incredibly sleep deprived!

I have a full face mask from Resmed, and have learned that dealing with the leaking means 2 things to me. First, I make small adjustments, both to the mask itself and the headgear velcro. The second thing I sometimes struggle with is getting a fresh cushion every month. I have a hard time coordinating with the store hours. One thing the sleep doctor said is to use a facewash every night, as the oils in our skin cause the cushion to deteriorate quickly. Getting a new cushion every month has helped a lot with the leakage.

I have only taken my mask off a few times, when I had panic attacks. I could put it back on when the attack passed. I even wear it for naps, whether I sleep or not. I strongly recommend perseverance in getting used to your CPAP. I can attest to the fact that it could change, or even save your life.

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THANK YOU I AM HAPPY THAT I COULD HELP YOU

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vickiw | @vickiw | Oct 7, 2016

my insurance wont pay for the full amount of a dental went seen a different a doc they r putting me on a aapap since I cant handle a cpap pressure constant I get my new machine next week

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vickiw | @vickiw | Oct 18, 2016

I got my aapap I use a nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut so I don't leak how many other people do that?i cant use chin straps do to skin irration

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1 reply
Dawn, Alumni Mentor | @dawn_giacabazi | Oct 18, 2016

There is a new mask that works great and you do not have to worry about your mouth opening. It is fits over your mouth but under your nose. I love it. Best mask I've ever used.

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8 replies
beatricefay | @beatricefay | Oct 19, 2016
In reply to @dawn_giacabazi "There is a new mask that works great and you do not have to worry about..." + (show)
@dawn_giacabazi

There is a new mask that works great and you do not have to worry about your mouth opening. It is fits over your mouth but under your nose. I love it. Best mask I've ever used.

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Does the mask you use to keep your mouth shut have a name? I use a strap around my head. It works pretty good but I need to make it very tight. <br>

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Dawn, Alumni Mentor | @dawn_giacabazi | Oct 19, 2016

@beatricefay, @flor the mask I use is a Phillips Respironics Amara Vuiew Mask. As you can see in the picture the mask fits under the nose eliminate pressure point on your sinus cavities, that has been my biggest problem in the spring and fall with my full-face mask.

Here is a link http://www.easybreathe.com/Amara-View-Mask-p4423.html?gclid=CjwKEAjws5zABRDqkoOniLqfywESJACjdoiGCb7ENg7WaWBLgGLzF5o9oIhTDjnUaZbpcehfb8wNABoCsnrw_wcB

Works great for mouth breathers
Dawn

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2 replies
Plaid | @bob270 | Oct 19, 2016
In reply to @dawn_giacabazi "There is a new mask that works great and you do not have to worry about..." + (show)
@dawn_giacabazi

There is a new mask that works great and you do not have to worry about your mouth opening. It is fits over your mouth but under your nose. I love it. Best mask I've ever used.

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I use the full face mask (covers nose and mouth). I've managed to wear out the strap and have to fuss with it each night. I get C-PAP supplies at the MAYO Home Store in Eau Claire, WI. I have some leakage, but mostly I manage to pull the hose out as I roll around during sleep. I wake up to the sound of air blowing at me. Overall I'd say few frustrations and much to be happy about.

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Plaid | @bob270 | Oct 19, 2016
In reply to @dawn_giacabazi "@beatricefay, @flor the mask I use is a Phillips Respironics Amara Vuiew Mask. As you can..." + (show)
@dawn_giacabazi

@beatricefay, @flor the mask I use is a Phillips Respironics Amara Vuiew Mask. As you can see in the picture the mask fits under the nose eliminate pressure point on your sinus cavities, that has been my biggest problem in the spring and fall with my full-face mask.

Here is a link http://www.easybreathe.com/Amara-View-Mask-p4423.html?gclid=CjwKEAjws5zABRDqkoOniLqfywESJACjdoiGCb7ENg7WaWBLgGLzF5o9oIhTDjnUaZbpcehfb8wNABoCsnrw_wcB

Works great for mouth breathers
Dawn

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I use the ResMed Mirage QUATTRO full face mask for mouth breathing. I have trouble with the strap coming loose from the top slots. I see another mask that has snap-lock clasps for all four tie points. That may be my Christmas present to ME.

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Dawn, Alumni Mentor | @dawn_giacabazi | Oct 19, 2016

@bob270 sounds like a great gift!!

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flor | @flor | Oct 19, 2016
In reply to @vickiw "I got my aapap I use a nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut so I..." + (show)
@vickiw

I got my aapap I use a nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut so I don't leak how many other people do that?i cant use chin straps do to skin irration

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THAT IS TERRIBLE TRY TO FIND ANOTHER SOLUTION

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