Sleep Apnea Evaluation - Unexpected Requirement

[cherrytree15 78]

My study was an at home study. The mailed me a device that I had to use for 3 days and send back. It was simple. Then I picked up my CPAP from a local office. I hate the thing but it does help me sleep better.

[beeteroo 166]

Update I I Ok so the Doc says I have severe obstructive sleep apnea with low oxygen and failure to up oxygen levels after an apnea event, plus hypo ventilation. So I am waiting to be fitted with a fashionable CPAP machine as we speak. Lovely. The only thing I can do is turn around my attitude, so I am happy that we have discovered the problem, that the office is working my insurance issue and that I may experience what I have read can be life changing sleep after receiving this machine. And guess what? I get to install it myself :-D

You will probably feel so much better after you get use to the mask. It takes some getting used to but don't give up on it! Hope it goes perfectly for you! Hang in there!

[SnohoGal98296 371]

Thanks Beeteroo,

I used my new CPAP last night, and while I was more aware of it, I did sleep well. Not an OMG night of sleep but better than my average night. I am more optimistic that once I get used to the "face hugger" a la Aliens, that my sleep quality will improve. The Dr did say that I will probably only need the machine for a few months....

Edited May 21, 2014 by SnohoGal98296

[tnpeach 41]

Is it going to have to go back for a second sleep study. I have my sleep study in April and went back to the pulmonologist for the results they said I was breathing shallow I think 34 times than hour. Now they are sending me back for another sleep study I am thinking to get the settings for a CPAC. I am so frustrated why didn't they do this when I was having the original test to begin with and this was in a Center not a home study. I just about field that there just after more money and wasting time. This is the last clearance I need and it seems like it's taking forever. Thanks I am curious to see if anyone else has had this issue. And I needed to vent thanks.

[SusinMichigan 76]

After my first sleep study (2 days) back about 8 years ago, it was determined my oxygen level drops to 56 at night. Last month I had a split study (they already knew I had apnea) and as much as I have dropped about 60 pounds since the long ago study, thought they'd be able to lower the rate, wrong ... it's gone up and the technician gave me the impression I'd be using a machine for the rest of my life. The tech was about as big as my arm and she also uses one.

This doesn't bother me, I've had it so long it's my security blanket and both hubby and I sleep better knowing it's doing it's job and it's a minor inconvenience to know I'm waking up the next day (Good Lord willing). To those needing them, USE IT! It could save your life!

[SnohoGal98296 371]

As I get more used to it, I really think I feel the difference, my throat feels less dry than after a night of snoring, I swear I feel more rested and wake easier even after only two nights of use. I was mad at first, thinking what a waste of time and money, but I do feel better! My insurance initially rejected the claim as medically unnecessary, but the Dr. says that they are writing a letter showing my obstructive apnea and hypoventilation to get the claim approved.

I have a follow-up study the end of May. I am calling my WLS Center today to see if this clears me as my surgery date is June 11th.

Edited May 22, 2014 by SnohoGal98296

[SusinMichigan 76]

Snohogal, so glad you are using it and feeling the benefits! It's so immediate, as you know and sleep well knowing that little box has your back!