CPAP help needed

[Disney Doll]

As others have said, there are many masks and nasal pillows and so forth, so work with the MD/therapists to get one that you can tolerate.

DH wears a full face mask. He's comfortable with it and it doesn't bother me. I stil think he's cute. We call his CPAP "Darth", as in Darth Vader.

All kidding aside, he has a terrible case of sleep apnea so if the mask helps keep him happy and healthy and here with me, I'm all for it!

 

[Nawlinslady]

I have a mask that covers just my nose. I am a mouth breather but the mask keeps my mouth shut, surprisingly. Actually....if you happen to open your mouth the air makes a noise and you will close it very quickly.

It has made a definite difference in my blood pressure. One of the best things I have noticed though is that I NEVER used to dream, but now....I have some pretty amazing dreams....not weird or anything but very detailed and very involved....and I can remember every little bit about them when I wake up.....I guess I wasn't getting deep enough sleep before, but I noticed this change almost immediately....I used to wake up so many times a night....it was pathetic....and of course once I was awake I would have to make a bathroom trip....well now I go to bed and I do not move from the position I am in all night long.....it is really amazing and the energy level change goes without saying......Good luck!!!

 

[MamaJessie]

I just received the results from my sleep study, and I have severe hypopnea. It's different from apnea in that you don't completely stop breathing; however, mine is so severe that CPAP is the only treatment.

I have issues with claustrophobia and can't imagine having to wear the mask on my face every night. Does anyone know of a CPAP mask that is more comfortable to wear and won't cover my entire face?

I have mixed feelings about all of this right now. I feel embarrassed (as a woman) that I even have this problem. I'm happy for the diagnosis since I'm having other medical problems that are likely from the sleep apnea. However, it's just hard to accept that I have to wear this the rest of my life.

Any suggestions or advice would be very appreciated. Thanks.

DH is claustrophobic and has a cpap. He actually couldn't handle wearing the face thing at the sleep study and came home. He opted to get the nasal one, but is going to go back to get the full one. When he has a stuffy nose it bothers him, and he is actually getting chapped nostrils. So he is going to try dealing with the claustrophobia.

 

[Sadie22]

You will be fine. You will feel so much better when you wear the CPAP that you'll be sorry you didn't start wearing it sooner. The technician will try different masks with you to get the best fit that will work for you and that you can tolerate. If by some chance the first choice does not work out, or if you have any problems at all, call and talk to a technician or your sleep specialist. Keep trying until you get something you can live with. You'll be glad you did.

One problem I have encountered with my nasal pillows held on by Velcro straps is that sometimes the mask comes off while I'm asleep, and my husband is not persistent enough in putting it back on or waking me up so I can put it back on. He will go sleep in another room, leaving me snoring. Then in the morning I don't feel well. And I'm mad at him.

 

[Sadie22]

I have a deviated septum that causes my apnea. Mine isn't weight related.

I tried a CPAP for a few months and hated it. I couldn't sleep with it and would end up ripping it off a couple hours after I put it on. Since I'm a mouth breather, I have to wear a full mask. It was too uncomfortable for me.

I eventually quit using it and returned it to the rental place.

SaraJayne, I have a chin strap that keeps my mouth closed and allows me to use the simple nasal pillows. Perhaps if you worked with a technician at a sleep center, he or she could find a good fit for you. I hope you find a solution that works for you.

 

[kellydizfan]

I have had my cpap machine a couple of months now I think it is. I didn't have a problem wearing the mask. I did have one issue with a bloody nose one day shortly after the start of using the machine. I use Air saline spray in my nose when I have an issue breathing. I have a deviated septum also but they can't do anything for me - have asked several times - my ENT as he is the best in the area. Don't be concerned, relax and let it do its job. My husband states I still snore but nothing like I used to. The machine is so quiet also.