08-09-2015, 08:25 AM
(This post was last modified: 08-09-2015, 08:25 AM by Jneditch.)
Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
Hello all, first post.
So I was a little startled today when I woke up and realized I had my mask on, but my CPAP machine was off. I was so tired last night I guess I put my mask on and forgot to turn on the machine.
I have a full face mask, but I guess they are designed for a worst case scenario to sleep with the mask on, but no power to the machine in case your power goes out.
Just wondering if anyone else has ever done this and is it dangerous? I was worried I could've done damage to myself since I was sleeping without getting full air.
I've been using CPAP for about a year. First time I ever did something this stupid.
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
Hi Jneditch, welcome to Apnea Board.
It's very unlikely you could do yourself any damage by sleeping with the machine off. The mask is vented to allow exhaled air to be expelled, and if the machine isn't running, a flap valve in the hose connection allows the vents to operate in reverse. You can test this out easily enough by putting the mask on and breathing normally before you turn the machine on. In the event something did go wrong, I'm pretty sure you'd wake up enough to pull the mask off, anyway.
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
Most machines have an auto-on feature you can activate. Try it before you party and crash next time. The anti-asphyxiation valve worked for you...that's a good thing.
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
Thanks guys! I'm just an over thinker. I know the mask is designed for such an event, so good to know it works! From now on I'll just turn the machine on first before I put my mask on.
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
Welcome to the forum. Your profile shows "unsure" on machine. Really, after a year? Hope you stick around and enjoy the conversation and maybe learn a few things about this machine we all hook into.
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
and if you find out you have a data capable machine, I would suggest downloading sleepyhead and watch your data. How do you know if things change if you don't watch for yourself? Your doctor and DME can't or won't do it for you.
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
Hi Jned,
The doc will just throw a machine at you and tell you to use it.
This group will show you HOW to make it work for you.
"With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all things are attainable." - Thomas Foxwell Buxton
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
I just placed unsure cause I was in a hurry to get my question answered. I'll download that app and update my system info. Thanks guys!
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
(08-09-2015, 09:29 AM)Jneditch Wrote: Thanks guys! I'm just an over thinker. I know the mask is designed for such an event, so good to know it works! From now on I'll just turn the machine on first before I put my mask on.
There ya go... good idea! I do the same after sleeping one night without that good ole air. I still don't know how that happened. Just a usual night, but who knows.
Here's to many air filled nights!
RE: Accidentally fell asleep with mask on, but didn't turn CPAP machine on
The most dangerous thing you can run into is pulling your machine down on your head at night.
(A most rude awakening!)
I think that's why everyone tells you to mount it lower than your head on
the night stand.
"With ordinary talent and extraordinary perseverance, all things are attainable." - Thomas Foxwell Buxton