Ok, Here is my issue; as stated in the subject, I have gained about 15 lbs since my original sleep test and I'm pretty sure I need my machine adjusted, but I dont have insurance anymore and I cant afford to see a Pulmonologist to have my prescription changed.  Whenever I use my mask, it feels comfortable while Im still awake (Ive had it for almost 3 years so Ive gotten quite used to the feeling, if not dependant on it), but I will wake throughout the night unable to breath.  If I leave the mask on, or if I just go all night without waking up, I have an extremely difficult time waking up; it will take almost 2 hours to actually be able to open my eyes and keep them open.  I had to order a replacement gel cushion, so I went a few days without using the mask (the one I was replacing had begun to melt and was unusable); I noticed that during those few days I did not use the mask I had no troubles waking up, and I felt more refreshed than I had in at least a year.  Im pretty sure the issue is that, when I originally had my sleep test done my sleep apnea was almost undetectable, but they still gave me a machine just to be safe; it was just set on the lowest setting.  I know that it needs to be turned up, but I have no idea how, and Im kind of afraid to do it (my dad died from sleep apnea, so Im kind of scared of not having my machine set right). [Moderated]

You might try discussing this w/your family doctor and w/the RRT at the local DME provider you got your CPAP from 3 years ago. They may be able to offer some suggestions or find some qualified help for you.

What brand and model CPAP are you using? Which mask are you using? I see that it is one w/a gel cushion and it is good that you ordered a new gel cushion for it. The mask frame and headgear can last quite a while but the cushions do tend to age and lose its ability to seal well after a while.


_________________
Resmed VPAP Auto. Humidaire 3i, ProBasics Zzz-Mask full face, ResScan 3.7, S8 ResLink, Embla oximeter.
Currently trialing PR SystemOne BPAP Auto w/Bi-Flex, EncorePro 2.2, ConTec CMS-50D+ oximeter

I believe if you google [Moderated. Please refer to posting guidelines] you will find this information readily available.

I sent you a PM.

CrohnieToo wrote:

You might try discussing this w/your family doctor and w/the RRT at the local DME provider you got your CPAP from 3 years ago. They may be able to offer some suggestions or find some qualified help for you.

What brand and model CPAP are you using? Which mask are you using? I see that it is one w/a gel cushion and it is good that you ordered a new gel cushion for it. The mask frame and headgear can last quite a while but the cushions do tend to age and lose its ability to seal well after a while.

Here's another reason why you should get your equipment from a DME supplier because when you have issues like these they can get a physician order for a 30 day trial APAP and see what pressure you are averaging. This keeps you from having to go through another sleep study. If you buy your equipment elsewhere, you don't get perks like these.