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+--- Thread: [CPAP] CPAP isn't working for me HELP (/Thread-CPAP-CPAP-isn-t-working-for-me-HELP)
CPAP isn't working for me HELP - Ralph Jensen - 10-22-2012
I have been trying to use the machine for 5 months. I have never been able to get to sleep with it. I tried the nasal mask, the pillow mask and now the full face. If I try for several hours I take it off and go to sleep. After a few weeks of this I just go down hill as I must get up at 530am for work. I am almost ready to give up any suggestions my specialist said I am slowly killing myself with this condition.
RE: CPAP isn't working for me HELP - PaulaO2 - 10-22-2012
Your specialist is right.
What kind of problem are you having? Mask leaks? General uncomfortableness?
My first suggestion for all new users is to sit up with the mask and machine on during the day. This helps to get used to the noise, the pressure, the everything. Wear it while watching television for just an hour or so.
The next suggestion is to research 'sleep hygiene'.
RE: CPAP isn't working for me HELP - JJJ - 10-22-2012
(10-22-2012, 06:56 PM)Ralph Jensen Wrote: I have been trying to use the machine for 5 months. I have never been able to get to sleep with it. I tried the nasal mask, the pillow mask and now the full face. If I try for several hours I take it off and go to sleep. After a few weeks of this I just go down hill as I must get up at 530am for work. I am almost ready to give up any suggestions my specialist said I am slowly killing myself with this condition.
Your specialist is probably correct. The body repairs itself during deep and REM sleep, so if you're not getting proper sleep your body can't do proper maintenance.
A little additional information would help people here give you suggestions:
1) Did you have a sleep study? What were the results? (You are legally and ethically entitled to a copy of the sleep study results.)
2) What makes/models of masks have you tried? Ask anyone here and they will agree that the mask is the hardest part of this to get right. I went through eight masks before I finally found one that I can live with.
I note from your profile information that you are not using software. I am unfamiliar with your machine, but if there is software for it I highly recommend it. Being able to see the results every day makes a big difference. Perhaps someone else here can make further suggestions for viewing the data.
RE: CPAP isn't working for me HELP - trish6hundred - 10-22-2012
Hi Ralph,
First of all, WELCOME! to the forum.!
I'm sorry you are having such a rough time with CPAP therapy but I just encourage you to stick with it. Sometimes it takes many different masks 'till you find the one that works best for you. Just keep trying and don't give up. To get used to your mask, I would doo what PaulaO2 said further back in this thread.
Best of luck to you.
RE: CPAP isn't working for me HELP - zonk - 10-22-2012
how did you get this machine .. insurance or out of pockets
the Sleep Easy is an older machine ... some of the newer machines data capable and more comfortable therapy
RE: CPAP isn't working for me HELP - archangle - 10-23-2012
What specifically bothers you about wearing the mask? Hard to exhale, claustrophobia, etc.?
RE: CPAP isn't working for me HELP - zimlich - 10-23-2012
The questions about anything in particular bothering you will help other forum members help you, so please answer them if you can. Many will disagree but I am all about pharmaceuticals to make our lives better. Would your doctor be willing to prescribe a sleeping pill or sedative, short term for you to be able to relax and sleep? Another remedy is one of the PM pain relievers with benadryl (diphenhydramine). The pain reliever will help with any low level pain you are barely, if even, aware of. The benadryl will help you sleep. You can also take benadry by itself. Benadryl has a long half life so take it early since you get up early, or experiment on a weekend. I think these medicines are safe and help especially in the short term. I routinely take Lunesta. Good luck, Ralph.
Mary