Severe Sleep Apnea

[SuperFab 689]

Well, my surgeon's office called and said that they received my sleep report. I was told I had severe sleep apnea. I guess I'm not too bright because I thought either you had it, or you didn't. I didn't realize there were levels of severity. I guess it makes sense, depending on how many times you stop breathing at night.

I go and get my CPAP December 6, after my final pre-op appointment. I'm a little wary of trying to sleep with that on my face, as it was really weird and not too comfortable. However, it would be nice to use it and finally feel rested for once.

[BKLYNgal87 503]

Will you be using a nasal pillow or face mask? Everyone is different when it comes to what works for them, but try both to see which you'd be most comfortable sleeping with. My suggestion for getting used to the mask is to start using it on a friday night (provided you don't work on the weekends) and keep it on the whole night, whether you sleep or not. Then the next night chances are you will be so tired that you'll sleep with the mask on much better. It took me a while to get used to it, but once I did, my life markedly improved.

Edit: I want to add that since I've lost 75 lbs I have needed my air pressure level adjusted to a much lower setting. I am hopeful when I'm closer to goal that I won't need it anymore at all. Many people are able to cure their sleep apnea through significant weight loss.

[FibroDiva 60]

It took me a while to get use to my CPAP. I sleep on my side and the mask and hose always seemed to get in the way. I broke down and bought a CPAP pillow which has cut outs or indendations for the mask and hose for side sleeping [left and right] and a cervical support for back sleeping.

[SuperFab 689]

Will you be using a nasal pillow or face mask? Everyone is different when it comes to what works for them, but try both to see which you'd be most comfortable sleeping with. My suggestion for getting used to the mask is to start using it on a friday night (provided you don't work on the weekends) and keep it on the whole night, whether you sleep or not. Then the next night chances are you will be so tired that you'll sleep with the mask on much better. It took me a while to get used to it, but once I did, my life markedly improved. Edit: I want to add that since I've lost 75 lbs I have needed my air pressure level adjusted to a much lower setting. I am hopeful when I'm closer to goal that I won't need it anymore at all. Many people are able to cure their sleep apnea through significant weight loss.

I have a deviated septum and breathe through my mouth, so I have to use a full face mask. My daughter said she looks forward to having "Bane" off Batman for a mom. Lol

[SuperFab 689]

It took me a while to get use to my CPAP. I sleep on my side and the mask and hose always seemed to get in the way. I broke down and bought a CPAP pillow which has cut outs or indendations for the mask and hose for side sleeping and a cervical support for back sleeping.

I'm gonna have to look into that because I'm a side sleeper. I have spinal stenosis and it's the least painful position.

[FibroDiva 60]

I found my pillow at one of those "As seen on TV" stores. It was $65 but you might be able to find it at a linen store like Anna's Linens. I also have stenosis and find the pillow very helpful.

[SuperFab 689]

I found my pillow at one of those "As seen on TV" stores. It was $65 but you might be able to find it at a linen store like Anna's Linens. I also have stenosis and find the pillow very helpful.

Awesome!! I'll definitely be on the hunt. Thank you!!