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Hi @tbaxter33 -- I hope you won't withdraw from the group, because I think your topic of CPAP intolerance is an important one.
I have not had a sleep study, but I can completely imagine trying to sleep in a clinical setting could provoke some challenges and anxiety. I also have not had sleep apnea nor used a machine for it, but I did have a nose packed and taped after a deviated septum surgery, and I can remember barely being able to sleep at all, feeling like I was going to suffocate with having all this "stuff" in my mouth and nose area.
As you can see, you are not alone in having challenges with sleep studies and with wearing a CPAP machine. This discussion you started has so far provided practical tips trying to overcome issues with using the machine. But what about ideas for people like you for whom the machine is simply NOT an option and for whom the hospital sleep studies have been unsuccessful?
@tbaxter33, have you tried a home sleep study? Here's more info from an Mayo expert Q&A https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-diagnosing-sleep-apnea/
Replies to "Hi @tbaxter33 -- I hope you won't withdraw from the group, because I think your topic..."
I know many have said they have tried every mask and they probably have, but my insurance gives me a fair amount of latitude, so if something is not working, they will usually approve what my "air" company suggests. There is a new full face mask that does not rest on your forehead so you can have your glasses on if watching TV or reading and falling asleep - only way I ever get there. It has a breathable memory foam everywhere it touches your face and is the only comfortable full face mask I have ever worn. Just FYI.
I've heard about the home study. I think I'll ask my doctor if I can do that next time he wants a study.
Jim
@jimhd, I wonder if there is a difference in fee and if insurance will cover an in home study? They have so much equipment to be able to test different variables, I am surprised they can do the study in your home, but it would definitely be better for some.
I don't know the details, but I would think that a home study wouldn't be as definitive as at a lab.
Jim
That was my initial impression but the doctor I saw at Mayo told me that the home studies are close to the lab studies in terms of accuracy.
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I agree. I am in a similar situation, panicked when I did the portion of the sleep study with the mask. I want to use one, but not sure if I can. It will be helpful to hear from others who may find solutions, or not, to this problem