CPAP & Aerophagia - Why was I never warned of this!

[FluffySaysForkIt! 823]

For those struggling with CPAP, or afraid of the aeorphagia as the weight drops off, you might look into an APAP machine.

APAP doesn't just give a singular setting or pressure like traditional CPAP, but instead auto adjusts the pressure literally breath by breath throughout the night. It only ever delivers the pressure needed to maintain the airway at each minute. Your sleep doctor might be willing to give you a loaner or it could be rented short term.

For myself, it is still possible that I could, as I lose weight, dip below my pressure ranges that are set by my Doctor on even on my APAP. However, I do feel better that at least if/when that happens it isn't still blowing air into my stomach at a full force setting for months on end. I could then have it adjusted to even lower ranges for the APAP, if needed.

I dunno, just a thought. Oh the joys of OSA...😒

[MIZ60 1,291]

You might also look into a dental appliance that adjusts the jaw position which eliminated the need for CPAP altogether. My husband (normal weight) has severe sleep apnea and even with the CPAP has multiple episodes every hour. His doctor referred him to a dentist who specializes in these appliances. They take an impression and make custom covers for the upper and lower teeth and there is a "hook" that holds them together when you sleep. The hook is gradually adjusted to manipulate the jaw forward (process takes a few weeks) and at a sleep study done a year ago his apneic episodes went to 2 for the whole night. This is so cool and has worked so well for him...it is great to be able to travel without the CPAP and he sleeps better than he has in over 30 years.