azsqwurl

The at home test will likely be focused on oxygen levels throughout the night. It's definitely not as conclusive as the lab, but should still give good information. Frustrating that insurance would not cover a formal study.

Sounds about right. There is not much fun about a sleep study. Hooked up like a science experiment in a bed that is not your own does not lead to a great night sleep. But, the information is valuable! I use the nasal mask too. It does take time to get used to. You may have to adjust the straps on the headgear to find that balance of right enough to seal but not cutting off circulation to your brain. ???? It takes a little time, but once you are used to it, in your bed,in your terms, you'll sleep much better. Check cpap.com to get ideas about more masks. There are a lot of variations.

It will get better. I promise. Just takes a little time.

I'm also in AZ and working on pre-op stuff. I have BCBS Highmark, not sure how similar our plans are, but so far it seems pretty straight forward. I am working on my 6month supervised diet now and hope to be looking at February. Longer than I wanted to wait, but I'll survive. Other than that I have to do evals for cardiac, psych, & nutrition. Plus classes through the center. Fingers crossed it all goes smooth, for both of us!

I have had sleep apnea for 9 years and have worn a CPAP for most of that time. It inspired me to become a respiratory therapist. I can tell you a couple things. Honestly give the set up time to work. It's an adjustment sleeping with something on your face. And keep working with your home health to find a mask that works for you. There are so many options. Once you get a routine, you'll be amazed how much better you sleep. It may all be a nonissue once you have WLS, but definitely something to address and take seriously. Feel free to pick my brain if you have questions. Like I said, it's my life, personal and professional.

Had my sleep study last week. I thought I slept great. They called today and told me I quit breathing 203 times during the night, 32x a minute. I'm mind blown! I never wake up and think "man, that was a good night of rest!" I always think "man I'm tired" but at least now I know why. I thought I was just a sleepy person! I had no idea I quit breathing. I have to go back now and do the test with a cpap on and I don't know if I'll have to use a cpap from here on out or just for surgery. But this just like is one more thing letting me know I'm making the right decision to have the surgery. I can't wait until I can be healthy and get a good night of rest and not wake up and feel exhausted. Anyone else have any sleep apnea stories or maybe you don't have it anymore since you lost your weight... I can't imagine sleeping with that Loud machine and mask on my face every night

@@madferitchick

Thanks for sharing your journey and progress!! As someone who is still working toward my procedure it is nice to read what to expect. Keep the updates coming!! You're doing great!!

I am new to this process too. I just saw my surgeon on Monday. Now I am waiting for the patient advocate to let me know what is next. It is all very exciting!

Hello everyone! I've been surfing the forums for the past week and just felt it was time to make my introduction.

I'm Raven, 34 years old, married with a beautiful 3 year old daugther. I've been overweight for the majority of my life. I've made several attempts to lose weight over the last 10 years. I've tried the Atkins diet, visiting 2 weight loss clinics, joined a gym, and even hired a personal trainer. I've had no problem losing the weight but maintaining has proved very difficult.

I've never really considered WLS until recently. A co-worker was sleeved this past April and after speaking with him several times and seeing his results (60lbs to date), I feel this is what i truly want.

I saw my PCP 2 days ago and they have sent my referral to the surgeons office. I've called to set up my first consultation, just waiting for a call back. I can't wait to hear back from them and get this process started.

As you embarked on your weight loss journey, did you tell many people? What did you tell coworkers? I'm still undecided on how much I will share with others and curious about what others have done.

I felt that sense of loss at about a month out. It didn't last long, only a few days for me. I just kept reminding myself of all the reasons why I am doing this. I also realized I never had a real "relationship with food". food is inanimate, and impossible to have a relationship with - you have relationships with PEOPLE! food is for fuel mainly. Yes, it is also for enjoyment, but there are so many things in life to enjoy that food plays such a minor role. Even more of a minor role now that I have the ability to enjoy so much more.

As it turned out, after about 3 months, there really wasn't anything I couldn't tolerate and have in moderation. So for me, I don't believe there are foods I "can't ever have again" - just foods I might choose not to eat or just take one small bite of because I value my health and new life more now than I value the momentary pleasure those foods gave me.

I love the perspective on this! I think this is how I will be, but I won't know until I am there.

@@azsqwurl have you checked out this thread? http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/276681-How-about-some-NSVs!?!?

How about some NSVs!?!?

Finally got around to looking at those. Very motivating! Thanks so much for sharing!!

Has anyone experienced depression or feelings of loss after surgery for the foods that you can not or should not eat anymore? If so, can you elaborate a little about it? Duration...... Intensity.....

Thanks!

What is that one thing you wish someone had told you, or are so glad someone did, about WLS or the process pre and post op??

Thanks everyone! Great feedback and lots to think about!!!!

Does anyone regret their decision to have WLS? Does anyone wish they had not done it? If so, why? I have seen so many people talk about their only regret being that they didn't do it sooner but I am curious about the other side and perspective.

Thanks! And for all those that are happy with their decision, go ahead and post about that too. Motivation is a good thing!!

Thanks!! That does help!

What changes have people noticed as far as their mental and emotional health after WLS? I'm talking about things like anxiety, depression, fatigue, distraction, ect. Did you find that these areas improved?

As always, Thanks for the info!!

Thanks everyone! This is exactly the info that I was looking for. Hearing how successful everyone has been and is very motivating!!

Hello everyone! I am new to this site and still in the researching stages of my weight loss. At 37 years old, 6'4" and 390lbs, it time to do something. I know a couple of people who have had procedures done and are delighted with their results. I want to get the perspective from more people. The REAL stories, from people who lived it and have nothing to gain from the information.

So here is my list. Answer as many questions as you want. Thanks so much for any information that can be shared!!!

What procedure did you chose and why did you chose it over the other options?

What was the general reaction from family and friends?

What was the biggest surprise during the process?

How long was your recovery?

How fast did you lose the weight?

How has your life changed since having the procedure?

Would you do it again?

Any regrets?

What should I be aware of?

What, if any, foods do you miss that you can no longer have?