Connect
← Return to Cpap and getting better sleep: What's your experience?
Discussion
Cpap and getting better sleep: What's your experience?
Sleep Health | Last Active: Sep 15, 2022 | Replies (356)Comment receiving replies
Hi Lisa @lisalucier -- Thanks for posting...I was actually thinking about posting an update as I am used to the CPAP and the AHI has gotten fairly consistent with a few bumps in the road. I have been CPAP mask shopping again but haven't decided. The one I have is the ResMed AirFit F20 full face mask and I use a cloth comfort cover (https://cpapcomfortcover.com/fits-airfit-and-airtouch-f20-full-face-mask/) which really helps. Even with the comfort cover I have nights where I feel claustrophobic and still get a sore spot on the top of my nose.
I can generally tell when I go to bed at night whether it's going to be a good night or a so-so night. Mainly it's from how I can breath through my nose with my mouth closed. If it's not really clear and my right nostril seems plugged it's not looking good. When it's like this it doesn't matter what I do - blow my nose, try to irrigate it, etc, nothing works to make it open up. I found out when I was first diagnosed that I have a deviated septum and I had asked the doctor about it but he didn't think it would make any difference as to the obstructive sleep apnea. Right now I'm thinking maybe it will but don't know if it's worth getting it fixed. I was going to discuss with my doctor but need to set up another appointment with him.
Anyone out there with a deviated septum that has had it fixed? Did it make a difference using your CPAP?
Replies to "Hi Lisa @lisalucier -- Thanks for posting...I was actually thinking about posting an update as I..."
Connect
I believe we may have discussed this previously, but repetition is good. It helps to review what we know and besides I am not certain we did discuss this before. I have not had my deviated septum operated on, but I did try to get approval for it. The doctor told me that it was a major operation as the whole nose would have to be rebuilt. He said Minnesota by law does not allow medically unnecessary operations. I could use a decongestant spray to relieve the congestion. The spray did not work so I am left with having to take off my mask during the night and blowing my nose. It will be interesting to see what your doctor says as this was many years ago that I was told this. I too am using the same mask as you and am considering going back to the blue gel face mask. It is huge, but seems to work better at reducing leaks. Thank you for the update and congratulations on getting your events so low.