I'm supposed to be using a CPAP every night?!
Question: How the heck do you get used to it? And do you sleep on your side or back? And how do you keep your mouth closed, and will I ever be comfortable with it?
Answers: How the heck do you get used to it? And do you sleep on your side or back? And how do you keep your mouth closed, and will I ever be comfortable with it?
Well, Evil J has certainly lived up to his/her name. Just ignore ignorance!
Yes, you will eventually will get used to it. I know that it seems impossible, but it will happen.
The following are some common problems you may have with your CPAP device, and some possible solutions:
The mask feels uncomfortable:
Because everyone's face has a different shape, you may need to try different masks to find one that fits you well.
Your nose feels dry and stuffy:
You can try using a humidifier to moisten the air from the CPAP device.
Your nose feels blocked up:
Some people who have sleep apnea also have nose problems. Ask your doctor if you have a nose problem that can be treated with a nasal spray. Surgery is sometimes also an option. People who breathe through their mouths don't do as well with CPAP nose masks. In this case, a full-face mask that covers both the nose and the mouth may help
The mask bothers your skin and nose:
Because the mask must fit firmly over your nose and cheeks, it may irritate your skin. A different size or kind of mask may help. There are also special skin moisturizers made for CPAP device users. Some petroleum-based products can damage the mask, so ask your doctor for more information. Some people also benefit from using nasal pillows that fit into the nostrils and relieve pressure on the bridge of the nose. Using a regular CPAP mask one night and nasal pillows the next night may help you feel more comfortable.
The mask leaks air:
Some people can't keep their jaw closed while wearing the mask. A chin strap can help hold up your jaw to keep the air in.
You don't like the pressure:
You may find that breathing out against the air pressure keeps you from sleeping deeply. Your doctor may ask you to use a bi-level machine that lowers the air pressure when you breathe out. The same mask may be used with CPAP and bi-level machines.
You take the mask off during your sleep or don't wear it every night:
Most people can't wear the mask all night long, every night, right from the start. Keep trying, even if you can only use the mask for an hour a night at first. Once you solve your comfort problems, you should be able to increase the time you wear the mask.
You just can't get used to the mask:
Some people find that wearing a dental device that pushes their tongue forward helps. You may want to talk with your doctor about whether throat or jaw surgery could help.
Good Luck!
(added after 3rd post) As I said, ignore the ignorant posts! It seems some people are just set on being mean. Yes, obesity certainly leads to sleep apnea, but I don't believe that was your question, was it? I hope the above information helps.
Change your lifestyle. Lose weight and you won't need the cpap.
It does take time. I had the same problem with a nasal mask, so I switched to a full face mask. The full face mask does work a lot better for me.
Well, Chamie may be a registered nurse but there is clear evidence that sleep breathing disorders are much more likely in overweight people. Someone close to me had sleep apnoea and was unable to achieve a proper amount of sleep. She has now lost 3 stones (54lbs) and sleeps like a baby, not even snoring.