[Split] Dkcdkc Home Sleep Test
Just found this site and am enjoying the information. I went on CPAP 19 years ago following years when I was just tired all the time. I switched to a new PCP and the first thing he did was send me to a sleep specialist. An overnight study found I had moderate to severe apnea and was issued the equipment. I don't even recall the manufacturer but finding a mask in those days was difficult. Masks today seal so much better. I went with a nasal mask and chinstraps to offset mild mouth breathing. The machine made an immediate and substantial difference. I suddenly had more energy, yet slept fewer hours. I could drive long distances without worrying about falling asleep at the wheel. Altogether it was fantastic.
I have great insurance - now Medicare plus that insurance - and have always gone for what appears to be the best equipment. I am currently on my fourth machine - ResMed AirSense 10 and use nasal pillows because they cause far less problems with dry eyes. I have been reminded of how much I depend on the APAP equipment now because Medicare determined that my sleep doctor in 2001 had an unreadable signature on my sleep study and they demand I take another test. I think it's stupid, but I went to the sleep doc (the original one retired years ago) and they gave me this home study kit.
I have to sleep without my APAP for the test and tried it last night. It has been over a decade since I last slept without the machine - and I didn't sleep well then, or last night. I slept fitfully and woke repeatedly gasping for air. I can hardly wait to see what the test shows. I just hope all this passes so I can get my new supplies and keep going. The CPAP has been a god-send for me and, honestly, I really can't sleep effectively without it. I don't do or have a lot of the stuff I've already seen on this board and look forward to learning if my experience can be enhanced even more. Thanks.
RE: Your Personal CPAP Success Story - Post Here
dkcdkc, I'm so impressed by you long record of PAP use -- it's inspiring! But I could wring Medicare's neck, if it had one, for nitpicking on you.
When you get the study, you might want to start a new thread on the main forum by posting the results to see whether the experts have advice for you. Be sure to black out any identifying information before uploading.
RE: Your Personal CPAP Success Story - Post Here
(03-01-2020, 09:44 PM)Dormeo Wrote: dkcdkc, I'm so impressed by you long record of PAP use -- it's inspiring! But I could wring Medicare's neck, if it had one, for nitpicking on you.
When you get the study, you might want to start a new thread on the main forum by posting the results to see whether the experts have advice for you. Be sure to black out any identifying information before uploading.
My home sleep test failed. Apparently it couldn't get sufficient hours assured sleep for the test. Doesn't really surprise me. Now I have to go in for a test in the sleep center. First time available is in May. But, with all the virus stuff, I'm not too wild about going in - and it will probably be bumped anyway. Looks like I may have to pay for new pillows, etc. out of pocket.
RE: Your Personal CPAP Success Story - Post Here
Well, rats! What a big shame.
RE: [Split] Dkcdkc Home Sleep Test
I want to wish you best of luck with a clinical study. It will likely be delayed due to the pandemic, however, you should not hesitate to get an appropriate sleep aid ahead of the test. I also have problems falling asleep in a testing situation, and that is what needs to happen. It won't interfere with the test, but it's very frustrating not to have sleep during a test due to anxiety about the environment.
I sent you a PM to explain why I separated your posts from the CPAP Success Stories thread. You clearly will have an ongoing story. I hope you will keep it here.
RE: [Split] Dkcdkc Home Sleep Test
I can usually sleep anywhere. But not having the CPAP will be the big challenge. I'll do all I can in advance to be really tired. My other issue is having a spouse who is partially disabled and needs to have someone with her at night. I had planned to have a friend stay over during my test, but most folks don't want to take that risk with the virus all about. Don't know how that's going to work out. And all this simply because a Medicare bureaucrat can't make out the signature on my 2001 original sleep study. Will update later.
RE: [Split] Dkcdkc Home Sleep Test
I would be in the same position as you if Medicare requires me to take a sleep study to renew my prescription. It's really an insane system that requires someone that has been treated well for 20 years to demonstrate they still have sleep apnea. I'm certain at this point there will be no testing conducted for the next few months. It might be worth shopping for a doc that can find another means of approval.