Sleep Apnea Questions

[Antonette 12]

Did/Does anyone have sleep apnea? Are you using the CPAP machine? If so, how long did you have to use it after surgery?

[cubbies76 132]

I have it. I was diagnosed while I was going through the insurance approval process. I'm only 3.5 weeks post-op and I've already had to have the pressure reduced by 25%.

[acubi2 33]

My doc recommends getting retested 3 months post op. My apnea was at such a low setting that I don't think I will wait that long to be retested.

[megansmommy123 57]

I was diagnosed with sleep apnea 1 1/2 years before surgery. I used a CPAP every night for 18 months. Within 4 months post op I wasn't sleeping well. I went in for a repeat sleep study, and had gone from "moderate sleep apnea" to mild. My dr reduced the pressure on my cpap, but told me to still use it. I cant. When I try to sleep with the cpap I don't sleep well, but when I sleep without it, I sleep great. Right now I alternate between using it and not, depending on how tired I am. The dr said to come back and see him when I have lost another 50 pounds. I am at 260 now, and we would talk about me not needing it anymore. I'm hoping!

[TonyaA 41]

I was told I had sleep apnea during the insurance approval process. I am 3 1/2 months post op now and down 52 lbs. I was told that I didn't have to go back to the sleep apnea doctor until which ever come first; at goal weight, one year post op, or lose 100 lbs. I don't use my CPAP every night, but when I feel a little more tired than usual, I will use it.

[plasticbee 22]

I have a CPAP I got at the beginning of the year, set at a fairly high pressure of 15. My sleep dude said I may never be able to not use it (something about narrow airways) because he can't be sure if the weight loss will change that or not. That said, its something I'll be keeping an eye on. I am hoping at the very least to reduce pressure in 50 pounds or so. That said, I wish I had had the CPAP machine before, being able to sleep through the night has been one of the most amazing things ever.

Good luck.

[cubbies76 132]

I was set on 15 as well and was told the same thing about my narrow airway. After 45 pounds they reduced the pressure. Getting off this thing is my #1 NSV. I hate this damn thing even though I feel much better after starting it a few months ago.

[penman53 493]

^{I had a pressure of 13 for a long time. I have lost 75 pounds since surgery (7-24-13) the pressure has been reduced to 6 which is actually normal. So I expect to be taken off CPAP when I see my pulmonologist next month. I have used CPAP for so long I think I may miss it. I don't mind using it at all. My cardiologist showed me on my echo what damage I had to my heart by not being in CPAP sooner. So please stay on it if you need it. It is worth it for your health.}