Sleep apnea and getting surgery

[Mswonderwoman22 2]

I am currently undergoing my pre surgery diet and I have done and finished all appointments for surgery and got referrals done and all but I was diagnosed with sleep apnea I am getting CPAP machine today, the sleep clinic told me I have to use it about 30 days before they clear me, it is very uncomfortable from my experience with the sleep study and I also have to loose 10lbs more . which loosing weight isn't the issue it is just the part of sleeping with a machine that is shoving air in you while you sleep, I also have to bring the machine with me to surgery I have yet to get a date, due to these two last things but I am hoping to receive surgery soon enough I have been doing all the work up since june of 2014. Any advice? suggestions?

[Debbie Jean 406]

I was also diagnosed with sleep apnea during my preop testing. Like you it delayed my surgery since I had to successfully use my CPAP for 2 weeks before I was cleared to be scheduled.

It takes getting used to but for me it has been life changing. For the first time in many years I wake up feeling rested. No more constant exhaustion and nodding off in my chair at work after lunch.

One particular piece of advice I have is to try different masks. There are so many different types and varieties, if one doesn't work, try another and another. It takes time but you will find one you can work with.

Be patient and realize that you can and will adapt. And I'm betting that after you do, you will agree with me that the diagnosis is a blessing in disguise. You will be healthier and feel better!

[kcadoret 81]

Cpap machines do take some getting use to and the masks you use make a huge difference! I found the first week challenging to adjust to but now I have trouble falling asleep without the air! They also make machines that have a variable pressure (I can't remember the actual term for it) so when you exhale there is less air blowing into your airway.

Good luck with the adjustment and the trouble really is worth the adjustments

[Mswonderwoman22 2]

I was also diagnosed with sleep apnea during my preop testing. Like you it delayed my surgery since I had to successfully use my CPAP for 2 weeks before I was cleared to be scheduled.

It takes getting used to but for me it has been life changing. For the first time in many years I wake up feeling rested. No more constant exhaustion and nodding off in my chair at work after lunch.

One particular piece of advice I have is to try different masks. There are so many different types and varieties, if one doesn't work, try another and another. It takes time but you will find one you can work with.

Be patient and realize that you can and will adapt. And I'm betting that after you do, you will agree with me that the diagnosis is a blessing in disguise. You will be healthier and feel better!

Thank you so much for your words i just got my machine and i cried opening it and setting it up i hate the idea of this but i know its for a better and healthier life and its for my surgery which i cannot wait to get

[Mswonderwoman22 2]

Cpap machines do take some getting use to and the masks you use make a huge difference! I found the first week challenging to adjust to but now I have trouble falling asleep without the air! They also make machines that have a variable pressure (I can't remember the actual term for it) so when you exhale there is less air blowing into your airway.

Good luck with the adjustment and the trouble really is worth the adjustments

Thanks hun its intense for me i suffer from anxiety so its like too much for me right now but i pray things get better for me thanks to all your guys who replied i am glad i found this app

[kcadoret 81]

I was very anxious about all aspects of getting and using the machine. And the first week getting use to it was challenging but we know you're strong, you're getting this surgery so you can do this!

[Inner Surfer Girl 12,015]

Cpap machines do take some getting use to and the masks you use make a huge difference! I found the first week challenging to adjust to but now I have trouble falling asleep without the air! They also make machines that have a variable pressure (I can't remember the actual term for it) so when you exhale there is less air blowing into your airway.

Good luck with the adjustment and the trouble really is worth the adjustments

It's called a BiPAP. I use one and agree that getting a good nights sleep is life-changing.

[requiem 1]

Does Your machine have a ramp up feature? If so, try it, it starts with just a little air and slowly increases. It was really helpful in the beginning adjustment.

And now? Nobody better touch my machine!

Good luck!

[OregonTeacher 63]

I definitely agree with what everyone has said, it does take a bit to get used to. The ramp up feature will help you to have an easier time adjusting to the air pressure. I am usually sound asleep before it increases pressure so I never even know it happens. Make sure to use it if you get up to use the bathroom in the middle of the night, too. I hated the idea at first, but after two months, now I love the constant air movement. When I was recently sick with a head cold it actually helped me sleep much better with a bunch if congestion. Just know that it is normal to have some ear fullness each time you turn the air on and swallow. You are just pressurizing your head. Good luck and get some good sleep!

[chubbsey1 126]

Cpap is like a drug once you learn to use it you wont want to stop! I'm 5 weeks postop and I'm trying to slowly ween myself off of it. Lol

Edited March 23, 2015 by chubbsey1

[cornhusker 115]

Use your machine. Find a mask that works and you will get used to it. sleep Apnea can kill you down the road. It's a serious condition. Diabetes, high blood pressure, memory loss, stroke are all at higher risk for OSA patients.