CPAP

[youthguy80 65]

During my 6 month insurance waiting period I've started using my CPAP again. I stopped using it two years ago after less than a month. My problem then, that is now reoccurring is I wake up and have random air leaks. If I stay in one position it's fine, but I move in my sleep. This is the second night of week two and I'm so tired and waking up numerous times thru the night. The first four nights I'd wake up between 1:30 and 2:30am and took the mask off---either because of headache or so uncomfortable from laying on back (I usually sleep on back, side and stomach.

Is this normal? Does the air leakage mean the mask isn't right for me? I'm using a different mask than last time. I'm trying so hard to stick with it but I'm constantly exhausted!

[joatsaint 2,814]

I've been on a CPAP for 3 years. I get air leaks pretty regularly. I find that usually it's because I let the oils from my skin build up on the seal and forget to wipe it off.

I use baby wipes to keep the seal clean and if that doesn't work, I put some chapstick on the seal and where it touches my face. That usually does the trick.

[kw2walker 211]

During my 6 month insurance waiting period I've started using my CPAP again. I stopped using it two years ago after less than a month. My problem then, that is now reoccurring is I wake up and have random air leaks. If I stay in one position it's fine, but I move in my sleep. This is the second night of week two and I'm so tired and waking up numerous times thru the night. The first four nights I'd wake up between 1:30 and 2:30am and took the mask off---either because of headache or so uncomfortable from laying on back (I usually sleep on back, side and stomach.

Is this normal? Does the air leakage mean the mask isn't right for me? I'm using a different mask than last time. I'm trying so hard to stick with it but I'm constantly exhausted!

My mask makes me sweat, and I find I wake up through the night adjusting it because it has slid in an uncomfortable position in my sleep. I've decided to put a little talc powder on my face to see if this helps.

It's been some times since you've wore the mask. Contact the company you received the CPAP from to see if a small mask is possible.

I can't wait to be rid of the use of the CPAP.

[youthguy80 65]

Thank you both for your thoughts. I'm still trying to stay vigilant and keep trying every night. Last night I took it off after an hour (longest it's taken me to fall asleep) because I wasn't falling asleep and the leaks were killing me. After I took it off I was asleep within 10 minutes.

[DonRodolfo 1,416]

Thank you both for your thoughts. I'm still trying to stay vigilant and keep trying every night. Last night I took it off after an hour (longest it's taken me to fall asleep) because I wasn't falling asleep and the leaks were killing me. After I took it off I was asleep within 10 minutes.

This is why I use nasal pillows instead of a full face mask or nose cup. The leaks are minimal and easy to resolve. I highly recommend trying them if you haven't already.

[Andrew0929 1,101]

I've been using a CPSP since 1989 and have done well with it. My suggestion is to visit your CPAP supply and have them fit you with a new mask.

It's taken me years to find a really good company. The one I use has helped several friends fix the problems you described. It may take several tries testing multiple masks but

[Andrew0929 1,101]

(Continued - sorry hit send by accident)

Let the professionals evaluate your situation. I'm sure they solve your leaking problem.

Andrew

[ShelPrice 70]

I've been on a CPAP for several years and still hate it. I've tried a few different types including a nasal pillow one (caused sores on my nose but could be user error). I'm a restless sleeper and have leakage issues too. Thanks for the chopstick tip; will have to try that. I'd like to hear from those that no longer need theirs. How'd you know you no longer needed it? Was it hard to get used to not wearing it? It's a pain in the keister to camp and travel with the darn thing.

Shel in Kansas - Sleeved 5/21/13

[buckeyefan1985 29]

I've been on a CPAP for several years and still hate it. I've tried a few different types including a nasal pillow one (caused sores on my nose but could be user error). I'm a restless sleeper and have leakage issues too. Thanks for the chopstick tip; will have to try that. I'd like to hear from those that no longer need theirs. How'd you know you no longer needed it? Was it hard to get used to not wearing it? It's a pain in the keister to camp and travel with the darn thing.

Shel in Kansas - Sleeved 5/21/13

I thought it was me. The nasal pillow kills my nose. I always feel like someone hit me. My nose is always red with little sores on it. Looks like a have a cold and I've been blowing it. It just looks not so good. I'm using the nasal pillow and it leaks all the time. I haven't slept good since I started using it. In fact, I haven't slept with it on all night. Can't wait until I don't have to worry about using the machine.

[ShariM735 189]

I've only been using my CPAP for about 10 days. I have the pillows. They don't bother my nose so much, but I wake up with dry mouth and a headache. I think I'm actually sleeping less than I did without it. But, I am breathing better all day. I have asthma so maybe it's helping that? Going to call tomorrow to see if I can do anything to get rid of dry mouth and headaches.

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[ajeeprider 94]

I've only been using my CPAP for about 10 days. I have the pillows. They don't bother my nose so much' date=' but I wake up with dry mouth and a headache. I think I'm actually sleeping less than I did without it. But, I am breathing better all day. I have asthma so maybe it's helping that? Going to call tomorrow to see if I can do anything to get rid of dry mouth and headaches.

Sent from my iPhone using VST[/quote']

Do you have a humidifier attached to your machine?That helps with the dryness.

Sent from my iPad: Sleeved 4/24/2013 by Dr. Farrell @ UNC Hospital---Started: 239lbs--Goal: 150lbs--Current: 200.9 lbs

[ShariM735 189]

I do have a humidifier. The dry mouth isn't as bad as it was the first couple of nights. Maybe it will get better with time. I can't imagine what it would be like without the humidifier!

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[Lap2sleeve 28]

I just had a sleep study last night. Having all of the wires and stuff on my face and head,etc. I can only imagine that I wouldn't sleep with a CPAP. Does it help at all to focus on the possibility of not having to use it the further your weight loss journey progresses?

I'm sending prayers your way.

[ShariM735 189]

Yes it does. I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea. My pcp let me decide info wanted a CPAP or not. I decided not. Then my surgeon read the results and said no CPAP no surgery. Hoping I won't have to use it too long.

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[alimusic123 5]

I've had my cpap for 7 months... and maybe have only had a handful of successful nights. Between leaks, severe colds, a sinus infection, and really not feeling successful, I haven't used it lately.

I also have mild (if any) apnea... my sleep study came back with nothing, and my specialist set me up with one to help with exhaustion. All it's done is cause stress!

I hope you have much more luck with all these suggestions! I think I'll try some tonight too...