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Life with CPAP

As part of my surgeon's process, the NP ordered a sleep study after mentioning snoring and daytime somnolence. Sure enough, I have added sleep apnea to my list of co-morbidities (also hypertension). Received my AutoPAP machine yesterday and gave it a whirl last evening. It's...going to take some getting used to.

For those with apnea, have you learned to adjust to sleeping with the mask? Have the benefits of the machine outweighed the mask? Were you able to follow the guidelines of sleeping with the machine 30 days prior to surgery and during your hospital stay?

I want to make it work. My sleep study test results showed an AHI of 26 and SpO2 of 71%, and I know proper treatment can aid in weight loss, lowering hypertension, etc.

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Ever since my surgery, my CPAP leaves me with such a dry mouth! They gave me a humidifier but the thing uses loads of distilled Water and it gives me the feeling I am sleeping in a god damn aquarium.

I leave my CPAP on the ground though, as indicated by my "sleep doctor" but water condensate in the tube and sometimes I even feel drops falling on my nose and/or mouth.

Hopefully I'll be able to give it back soon...

Thanks all--sounds like we have a trend here! Mine is an auto CPAP so I don't think it's the settings. I doubt I'll be able to get off CPAP even with weight loss--I had apnea even when I was close to what is now my goal weight. I do recommend that if you are prescribed one you use it--it does take some time to adjust but the health impact is worth it.

Give the XyliMelts a try too--they're about 1 calorie so no worries there... I've also taken to keeping a glass of Water on my nightstand for the times I need it.

I've stayed with my CPAP since 30 days before my surgery. The advantages of REAL Restful sleep have far outweighed the look of the mask while I'm asleep in the first place. I went from 70+ interruptions per hour and being tired EVERY afternoon to 1.5 interruptions per hour and 7 hours of REAL SLEEP that allows me to be awake all day. I can now make a 200+ mile round trip without needing a relief driver.

I am keeping mine in use for another 60 pounds lost (get under 240) and we will re-evaluate things. Being about 100 pounds lighter does help, for sure, but the benefits were INSTANT for me, so I have stuck with it. Talk to your Pulmonologist about different masks and fit options.

  • 3 weeks later...

First night using the new cpap. Didn't go too bad. Head feels a little weird. I tried to use one of these 5/6 years ago but the dang thing gave me sinus infections. I hope it doesn't happen again.

First night using the new cpap. Didn't go too bad. Head feels a little weird. I tried to use one of these 5/6 years ago but the dang thing gave me sinus infections. I hope it doesn't happen again.

Make sure to use the humidifier and clean tubing and mask frequently.

It's all about finding the right mask. I can't tolerate a full mask. Nasal pillows were comfy but my mouth opens and a chin strap didn't work. Finally found a hybrid mask with a mask piece that goes over the mouth and nasal pillows on the top. Sounds elaborate but it's super comfy for me. Absolutely keep it clean. I ended up with a machine that pumps ozone through to clean the tubes because I couldn't clean it often enough fit my allergies. I'm going to be done with mine not too long after the surgery.

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@@Ignatius my CPAP machine has a function that starts the flow slow at first and then slowly increases the pressure over 15 minutes. Check to see if you have this option. I too have the full mask and prefer it. I think it helps me keep my mouth shut (my husband would laugh out loud).

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Edited by Shrinkinqtpi

I am really happy, after a new sleeping test, I could finally give back my CPAP machine! After a weight loss of 33kilos (around 73pounds), no more sleep apneas! Wow that is great, I am really glad! No more changing my mask everymonth because it's too big and finally normal sleep without this awful machine!

I am really happy, after a new sleeping test, I could finally give back my CPAP machine! After a weight loss of 33kilos (around 73pounds), no more sleep apneas! Wow that is great, I am really glad! No more changing my mask everymonth because it's too big and finally normal sleep without this awful machine!

Awesome

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@@theantichick What's the name of your hybrid mask. I'm intrigued.

I have a love/hate relationship with my CPAP, but only because I'm claustrophobic. I have a Dreamwear mask. It fits kinda like an oxygen tube you had in the hospital. (Best way I can describe it.) The hose connects at the top of my head, which allows better movement since I don't stay in one position. I am more rested each day. Good luck, I think the mask is the key to success!

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@@Mamapiller Just Googled the Dreamwear. I might have to check that out.

@@theantichick What's the name of your hybrid mask. I'm intrigued.

Mirage liberty

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