Sleep Apnea and adjusting to a CPAP machine: Tips?

Hi @hosta. Here is a link to help with 10 most common problems.http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/in-depth/cpap/art-20044164

I am praying your RT will get you on the right track. Might have to change machines for the humity issue. Some machines just have to small of a tank for some patients depending on the climate in the area you live.

Comfort soon
Dawn

what type of machine do u have I had a cpap but it didn't keep my numbers doc wouldn't listen so switched docs he put me on a aapap an it works better I hate using it though do to the fact u have to wear something on your face all I'm in the process of getting surgery in a couple of months I hope it helps so I can get off the machine

I use a cushion pillow which fits under the nose only. I think it is the most comfortable of all the choices. I'm able to get through most of the night. It still takes a bit of getting used to. Nothing is 100% comfortable but the alternative of having apneas is less desirable.
What kind of surgery are you having? Is it to correct a sleeping problem?

I use a REsmed Auto system one. I have been told that surgey is very painfull and that sometimes it doesnt work. My family Doctor at Mayo Clinic told me that He would not suggest I had surgery. I am convinced of the CPAP because it has worked very well for me. And my Doctor told me if I didnt use it I could die. Take care hope everything works for you Flor

my doc emailed me an told me it is rare for someone to die in their sleep from it

yes it is to try an correct my sleep apnea so I don't have to use the machine an get my numbers way down

Hi @ dawn, Where did you get that type of mask? That sounds great! How long have you had it. I could be interested in that one! I just had my 3rd in hospital test. Now I will have a mask over the nose only, but I am a mouth breather and that showed up on the video that the doctor will receive. I don't know what he will do. If only I could "keep my mouth shut"! Hosta

It is good that your Dr. said that to you my Dr. said I could have a heart attack or a stroke so I use it all the time. Hope the surgery works for you, best regards. Flor

I open my mouth some I use the tapeing method an nasal pillows I'm clatraphobic so I cant wear any type of mask an chin srraps hurt me an breaks ny skin out

@patreats5674, I have used cpap, then apap with heated humidifier and heated tube for 15 or more years. The only problem I have had is finding a good full face mask that worked for me. I've tried many and with many problems. I finally bought Fisher & Paykel Simplus full face cpap (and apap) mask with headgear. Once I got it fitted right, it is perfect for me and I've bought some more in case they stop making. It doesn't leak, is light weight, fits better on the pillow (side sleeper) and gets a very high rating on the charts, is even cheaper than most ff masks. It runs a little larger and since my face is between a small and medium, a small fits me perfectly. If your provider can't get for you, you can send doctors' prescription to CPap.com and they will mail mask to you with insurance papers you'll have to send to your insurance for reimbursement. It's worth this extra effort to get a better mask. I always used the Pad A Cheek Pads to soften the straps. I've also for years used the RemZzs padded ff cpap mask liners to soften the mask on the face so it won't hurt or leave marks on my face. These you can get from cpap.com if your provider can't get them for you. I have very delicate skin and find these two products wonderful. Hope this helps.