Wellness

[Vivian]

I have a dear friend who was diagnosed with apnea several months ago. We live on opposite coasts but stay in touch daily. She is miserable because she cannot sleep with the CPAP machine. Her doctor told her about some frightening surgery as a last resort. My friend won't do that and I can't blame her. For those familiar with the CPAP contraption, how does one get used to it?

[hecate]

I had two sleep studies done and have sleep apnea. I tried the CPAP machine and it failed for me miserably. I felt like I was in a wind tunnel. It was crazy! After some time of searching I found I have TMJ, which was causing severe sinusitis and ear infections. I was also gritting and grinding my teeth. My Orthodontist fitted me with a mouth guard and I have worn it every night for the past 6 years. All of the aforementioned symptoms have dissipated and I'm able to breath properly. I've also invested in a memory foam mattress which has helped me to sleep as well.

I agree with the above suggestion that you bring your own pillow and blanket. You may also want to consider ear plugs. My clinic was quite noisy which made it difficult to sleep.

Sleep apnea is dangerous. I wish you good luck in finding your answers. Take care!

[tracytracy]

I've used a CPAP for years. I was grateful to get it because I had some scary nights where I would wake up knowing I was not breathing...or at least wake up in a panic knowing something was horribly wrong. My machine is old now but not noisy to the outside world. Funny thing is it's ingrained in my sleep ritual...I tend to fall asleep minutes after I settle in my bed with my mask on. I agree it's not easy sleeping during the sleep study but my tech told me they really only need about 45 minutes of good sleep if you have apnea they will catch it. I don't like to be without mine now and do take it on vacation. I did pay extra to get the variable machine I used in my sleep study..less worry about pressure settings. Didn't help my weight though.