Hi all,

Just an update on me.  Many of you know how anxious I was about the whole sleep apnea diagnosis and needing the CPAP.   After 2 somewhat failed attempts of nights sleep I've now managed to sleep with my new autopap spirit and swift nasal pillows for 7 hours a night for 2 nights now   .   Granted, I still prefer sleeping without it, but I suppose in time it will be second nature to me.   I can't say I'm waking refreshed, actually I feel more tired, but I'm sure that will correct itself as I correct my poor sleep quality.

It seems to me the hardest thing is the just getting to sleep part.  I've found that once asleep I don't seem to mind the unfamiliar feeling of the nasal pillows against my nose or the air opening my airway.  Last night as I looked at the clock and saw it was 1:15 am and I still lay there awake, I was about to give up.  I ripped off the nasal pillows and thought for a second.  I decided to get myself a drink, regroup, and try again.  It worked.  

So for those who suffer extreme anxiety over the whole thing, keep a few things in mind.  Using CPAP at home is far different then using it in the sleep lab.  It's much more tolerable when you're in your own comfortable surroundings.  And don't give up if you can't tolerate it the first night, second night, etc.  Just keep on trying.  

For all of your support here in the forum I        and thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Linda (roseinpa57 or L2)

Congratulations Linda (rose).  Your off to a good start!  If you continue having trouble falling asleep, some physicians prescribe a sleeping pill during the adjustment period, like ambien or lunesta.  Even a few nights with over the counter sleep aids is probably preferrable to sleeping without cpap.  Glad you are doing well.  Always fun seeing you in chats.

It's good to read your post, Linda...you're doing so well.        You did it right.  When the frustration hits, just get up, putter around a bit until you get sleepy again and try it again.    I agree with Okie that perhaps your doctor can prescribe a sleep aid for a few nights, to let you get some sleep while you're making friends with mask and machine.  

CPAC itself is of course not so bad.  It's the mask that irritates...........

I am using the swift nasal pillow too.  Last night was my first time.  Once I was able to fall asleep, I slept great.  When I awoke the two times all I can emember is the blissfull feeling of being able to lay on my back and really relax.  I drifted right back off to sleep.

My nose is a little sore but thans to you guys I have a method for making that better too.  I will try the vaseline.  The resp therapist who brought the machine out to me yesterday suggested a neosporin with lydocane that numbs the area a little.

The noise of exhalation was a little disturbing.  I was thinking aout trying ear plugs for a while.  

What do you all think about that?


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Thomas Vaughan

lastnite, i woke up so many times, probably more than off the CPAC.  how can u not wake up, when the air leaks with sound everytime you slightly move your head.  also when the pressure makes you nose itch but you can't give it quick rub or scatch.   absolutely frustrating!


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mild6

Congratulations, Thomas!

I, too, am a nasal pillows/vaseline user, and have found them to be very comfortable...most of the time.  Like mild6, however, that occasional nose itch can be a real nuisance.

And, yes, isn't it wonderful to be able to roll onto your back, and sleep peacefully.

As far as the earplugs are concerned, many here have had problems with pressure buildup and "popping" in their ears, but, by all means, give them a try if the noise disturbs you.  For me, it was simply a matter of getting used to the "white noise," and now it even helps lull me to sleep.

Hang in there, Thomas, those great night's sleep are there own reward for a small amount of annoyance.

8 hours of relaxed sleep!!!!!  SO far (two days) CPAP has surpassed my wildest expectations.  The earplugs made it possible for me to get to sleep faster.

My machine has 17.7 hours of "on time"!

The chafing in my nose was greatly dininished by the use of vaseline.  A very helpfull suggestion.

To all of you new, just diagnosed folks, there are success stories.  Be confident and persistant.

Thanks for the vaseline tip.  I wasn't sure if it was OK or not.  I use a foam earplug in my left ear only.   That way I can hear alarms etc.  The left ear is the only one that picks up the noise from my mask. So, that works extremely well.

Steve