Frustrated

[Ugly]

Many PAPers feel they have to manage their own therapy.

Indeed. After talking with my family doctor the other day, he felt the results of the sleep study were final despite:

- the pressure suggested was what I already had
- I found myself gasping for breath while trying to get to sleep
- I was still snoring at night
- I rarely awake fully rested

He didn't think I needed to see the Otolaryngologist although I insisted. I have no idea when that will be. I want to discuss these discrepancies. The sleep therapist said I can not upgrade to an "auto" machine without hearing from the doctor. So that leaves me with what I have. I'm borrowing an "auto" CPAP until December 5. The data card it takes (a ResMed S8) is apparently different than the standard SD card and I wasn't given one. So I take notes each morning and have every reason to believe I have to determine my own ideal pressure by averaging out the results. So I agree. The "professionals" aren't helping me manage things much so it's up to me. I realize that after I see the doctor, everyone will leave me to fend for myself.

[PaulaO2]

How long have you been using a CPAP?

Google "sleep debt".

What happens is your brain got used to low oxygen and waking up a lot is the norm. You need to keep using the machine and retrain the brain as to what this "sleep" phenomenon thing is.

Many CPAP users report being more tired WITH the machine than without. Part of it is the sleep debt.

The wonky AHI could be related to the same thing. It is the body and brain getting used to all of this.

[Rickgo]

Try not to get frustrated. I was fortunate to have a good doctor and lab when I started my CPAP. Regardless you need to be an active participant in your therapy, ask a lot of questions, read what you can, ask others (this forum is great). CPAP therapy works keep at it, "tweak" things as you need too, push your doctors, whatever it takes it is worth it!!!