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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@beatricefay

I'm getting fitted for a CPAP device on Monday. Sorry to read you hate it. How long did you try the device? I've heard it takes a while to get used to.

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What is Swift FX for nasal pillows? I have been using CPAP for about a month now and I love it. I was immediately comfortable with it the very first time.

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@mollyb1968

I have used a CPAP for over three years and I love it. It may take some getting used to but it helps me breathe so much better. I think it is my best friend. I know it will get me breathing again when I stop in the night. I think you need to give it a chance. It is a life support to me. Hope you keep trying until you find something you feel more comfortable with.

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I installed the app Dream Mapper on my smartphone. One of the features it has is leakage percentage. It is normal to have air blowing out, as that's the way they are made. The app says mask fit 100%. A lot of times I think the mask leaks but I check the app every day and it gives me peace of mind that it hasn't actually leaked. My mask is Phillips. Hope this helps you.

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@mollyb1968

I have used a CPAP for over three years and I love it. It may take some getting used to but it helps me breathe so much better. I think it is my best friend. I know it will get me breathing again when I stop in the night. I think you need to give it a chance. It is a life support to me. Hope you keep trying until you find something you feel more comfortable with.

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My mask is called Dream Wear.

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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What is the nasal pillow? I have had t masks and still have trouble with air leaks. If I tighten the straps, then it hurts my nose. When I check the mask fit it says it is good. When I send in the report it says I have air leaks. What should I do? I use it every night all night long, still have anywhere from 9 to 40 events. I am so tired during the day.

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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Go back to the store where you purchased your machine. Have a tech work with you to try out different masks and get a better fit.Nancy Shermoen~

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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I have tried 7 different masks. I still would like someone to tell me about the nasal pillow how they work etc: I don;t understand how when I check for mask fit it is good. I check it just before I send the report then it says mask leaks???????

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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Hi @hosta,

Nasal pillows are a type of CPAP mask consisting of plastic inserts (cushions) that go directly into the nostrils. The prescribed pressure used to keep the airway open is delivered through this mask. These small cushions rest at the end of the nose and may help relieve problems such as air leaks.
If you would like to see a picture, and description, you can go to the Mayo Clinic Store link, here:
http://mayocl.in/2efmk8G

@vickiw, I see that you have used a nasal pillow, before; do you have any suggestions for @hosta?

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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I know just when my mask leaks because my wife pokes me in the ribs. I hate it when I have to tighten it down too tight. It hurts the bridge of my nose and/or my cheekbones. I know then that it's time for a new cushion. I've learned that masks seal better if I replace it every month. Washing my face before sleeping also helps to make the cushion fit better longer. I would think that lotions, etc, would speed the deterioration of the cushion, too. I've heard about nasal pillows, but haven't seen them or tried them. I'm a lifelong mouth breather, so I guess I have to wear the full face mask, along with a chin strap.

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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I'm also a lifelong mouth breather but with a strap and the cushion pillow I get a good night's sleep. No loss of air while I sleep. I have found that the chin strap needs to be tight and pulled up near my mouth to keep it closed. I'd recommend you give the nasal pillow a try. It's comfortable as there is no pressure on the surrounding skin. Good luck.

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@vickiw

nasal pillow an tape my mouth shut but I gave up on the cpap the other nite I just cant sleep with it on

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My RT is coming to my house Tuesday to bring me another mask and to see if we can stop the leaks that keep going on every ;night. When I run a mask test, it says there is none, but when I send in the report it says there is. Does any one have any suggestions? What else can I do? I also run out on water and have to put more in in the middle of the night. I don't feel that the humidity is set to high.

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