Been using my full face mask and machine for 3 weeks now, and the machine seems to be doing it's job when I'm asleep. Unfortunately, I've suffered from insomnia for many years, and so far the machine therapy has done nothing for that condition. So I get a read out of .7 episodes per hour which is great, but I'm sleeping maybe one to two hours only per night. Insomnia and apnea is a terrible combo.
I am a sleep lab technician. I found your interview to be very insightful and informative. Thank you for the positive and negative experience you shared. I will take this to heart, and will instruct my patients accordingly.
I have been using a CPAP since 2001 - almost 20 years. I find it difficult to sleep without one now. My initial story is similar but with important differences. I have only had 1 sleep study back in 2000. I can manage my system on my own now. Before my sleep study, I would fall asleep every time I stopped moving. I had to fight to stay awake at red lights. That was dangerous for sure. In 2000 I was not a perfect specimen of a human male but not horribly overweight either. Strong, 200 lbs linebacker type strong, with a big body type in general. But I felt bad and tired all the time. In contrast, 20 year later, I feel GOOD all the time. I have zero complaints. - Back in 2000, I did lift weights and did martial arts every day. Did I snore you ask? LOL. There are epic stories about my snoring. One time I was traveling in Italy (Florence) and the hotel did not have airconditioning. So I sleep with the window open. The next morning after the first night the people across the hall were talking to me and stated they were kind of afraid to walk down the dark street (ally) to the hotel when they came back from the bar because they thought there was a bear around. It was me snoring. - I was an engineer (still am, I suppose, but I am a lawyer now) and worked with numbers all the time. Toward the end (when I had to do something) it was getting difficult for me to look at a number and then write it down correctly. Very bad for an engineer. I had no energy, had high blood pressure. - So I have my sleep study. During the sleep study, the guy running the study said, after about an hour, you clearly have a problem. So I going to determine the pressure you need and then I am going to let you sleep. So he did. The next morning I wake up and I could not believe the feeling. I could feel it in my brain. Unmistakable. Something good had happened during the night. The guy said when he let me sleep, I stayed in REM sleep for 25 minutes straight before my mask seal developed a leak and I came out of REM. He said normal REM sleep last no longer than 5 minutes at a time. - Once I got my CPAP, I thought, man, this sucks, I am never going to get used to this. But I remembered how I felt after the sleep study and I wanted to fell that again. So I persevered, and the CPAP became easy to tolerate. And when I woke up it was like a drug, better than any drug I had ever done. My mind was clear and rested and ready to go. Like being a kid again. I could not wait to get home at the end of a day and go to sleep so I could wake up and feel the drug. Unfortunately, that feeling wears off after a time. But I have not gone a night since such time without a CPAP (on purpose). Sometimes my mask will break and I do not have a backup and have to order a new one. It is torture until the new mask comes. Now I have some backups. I had to order 4 CPAP machines over the years. Most of the time without a prescription (hard to find a source but it can be donw). My last CPAP cost me $200 RESMED SleepSense 10 - my regular doctor wrote me a prescription - no big deal. My mask costs about $100 to $150 depending on the type I buy. - I use a full face mask because I want to be able to sleep when my nose is stopped up, which is not very often but still a pain when it happens. And when your nose is stopped up one probably needs sleep more than ever. - I will never sleep without a CPAP again on purpose. I do not care if I "need one" or not. I believe the need for good sleep is underestimated and Good, effective sleep is critical for health in the long term for anyone. Thus, I truly believe a CPAP will prolong anyone's life. z
I had recently moved back in with my mother due to financial necessity. She is a retired nurse and could hear me snoring at night and said that it sounded like I was having trouble catching while sleeping and thought I had sleep apnea and was consistently telling me to get a sleep study done. I was worried about cost. But it got so bad that I was waking up 4 or 5 times a night, was nearly dosing off while driving (I was literally slapping myself whenever I felt like dosing off while driving) and just felt like I was like a zombie. I guess you could say I was the walking dead. So I went to a sleep clinic and did they had me do a home sleep study and found I stopped breathing 70 times per hour. I got a CPAP machine and the difference was noticeable from the get go. I was wide awake. I've had the machine for about a month now and my mother said my skin tone looks better and it looks like I'm losing weight. Though I do admit I am still getting used to it, but I make sure I have it on every night before I go to bed,
This video is a gem. I'm from the UK and we can get the sleep app machine free on our National Health Service fortunately. I'm a slight to moderate sufferer of Sleep Apnea and I'm grateful to both you gentlemen. Losing weight is essential and it is better to be a light sufferer than a heavy one. I've lost 84 pounds in one year and it feels really good. I'm 63 years old and I can once again run like a rocket. Thank you both for your straight forward talk on this dreadful ailment and please keep people informed because sleep apnea., according to what i've read, can cause people to die from 12 up to 15 years earlier.
to all sleep apnea sufferers try those tips : avoid milk products , reduce sugar intake ,drink some apple cider vinegar with water , also lemon balm tea might help a bit ... as well listening to mooji , walking or other movement 20 minutes per day , taking a natural not synthetic food based multivitamin .. and eating cleaner better quality foods ,also some plants release oxygen and help us breath better . good luck people .
Lemon and vinegar and histamines - that's just a nutty recommendation. You should avoid high histamines! There's no reason to avoid milk unless you are intolerant.
I was having 98 episodes per hour. I was waking up with tremendous headaches, sore throat, falling asleep at my job, twice while driving, gaining weight, I got my machine. I have had a problem since day one. I feel great ! Lost weight, have energy. I’ll never stop using it. It saved my life !!!!
Wow, Finaly a person who understands the struggle and also is willing to provide us with real support we can use. Thank you so much for this video. I have now been 3 days without much sleep. Avoiding my machine, like you said. I was about to give up and call it quits. very useful and simpathetic video. Thanks again sir! I am ready for round 2
I am using my machine for about a year and it was one of the best things that ever happened to me. The difference in the quality of sleep has been night and day.
Many thanks, been searching for "devices to help obstructive sleep apnea" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you ever come across - letochy fast apnea plan - (should be on google have a look ) ? It is a smashing one off guide for discovering how to get rid of sleep apnea minus the headache. Ive heard some super things about it and my m8 got amazing success with it.
I've been on cpap since 2003. I fell asleep at red lights, during meetings, while driving and finally I crashed my new truck into a phone pole. I've been on it ever since. Life saver.
Winner of a video, been searching for "how do you fall asleep with a cpap machine?" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you ever come across - Cenatthew Harrowing Cure - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? It is a great exclusive product for discovering how to end your sleep apnea problem without the normal expense. Ive heard some decent things about it and my co-worker got amazing success with it.
I noticed a huge difference after a couple nights of using my machine. I was seeing spots and having eye pain. Once I started cpap it was a quick recovery. I have been using my machine for several years and it has changed my life.
Cheers for the Video clip! Apologies for chiming in, I am interested in your initial thoughts. Have you tried - Franaar Magic Dream Formula (google it)? It is a smashing one of a kind guide for eradicating sleep apnea and snoring minus the headache. Ive heard some amazing things about it and my good mate called Gray at very last got cool results with it.
Thanks so much for your advice! Last night was my first night using the cpap machine. I was so tired for a couple yrs. I could not even stay awake during the day all I did was nap. And still never felt rested. I know this will help. I want to be who I used to be! Fun lively, enjoy going out- walking and being with friends. I had become an old woman who had no energy at all. Barely made it thru the days at work and every eve just snatched tv and napped- weekends/ more napping. Still tired! So thankful for this video and all the info available. 🙏
I have never had issues with colds and my nasal mask. In fact, I have had fewer illnesses since using the CPAP. Oh, and I was a skinny kid growing up and was always recognized as a major snorer. Not all of us are morbidly obese.
@@katieismobile8898 I was always slim (often called anorexic by peers) and active, but a big snorer and developed sleep apnoea age 30 (20 years ago). The doctor and the hospital consultant said I was the wrong sex, wrong size , wrong age and should see a psychiatrist. I started doing yoga which helped greatly. Luckily nowadays there's help online.
THIS GUY IS SUPER FANTASTIC. ALSO ENTERTAINING TO LISTEN TO. HE SHOULD DO TALKS AROUND THE NATION!!!! Give this guy a cigar. I mean a free Apnea Machine.
At about 33 mins, they discuss not knowing if CPAP can cause apnea to develop. It definitely can, and that's called "Treatment Emergent Central Sleep Apena", or sometimes has been called complex sleep apnea. If you think about it, if the machine causes a decrease of carbon dioxide in your blood, which is normally present to signal to the brain to take an inhale, then the breath is just going to stop until that CO2 builds up again. I recently started CPAP, and developed this problem, and the other night had a 30 second cessation of my breathing. Time go to into the sleep lab!
since I was a child, I could not figure out who the heck was sawing wood when I was asleep. I also spent a lot of time listening to my mother and waiting for her to take a breath. I think her early onset dementia was partly caused by sleep apnea. I went untreated till about 42. My daughter was in the drs office and he was asking her questions about how she was eating sleeping etc. she said she could not sleep because of my noise. The Dr came running out of the office to see me and shouted " you have to get a sleep study! You have sleep apnea and it could kill you!" He had just been put on one and was hypersensitive and he had been treating us for many years, so he was emotionally invested in this. I figured if he was that excited about it it must be important. He was right, I NEEDED one badly. I have used it ever since and thank God about my Dr's getting frantic.
Good summary of what you don’t know. I had s heart attack, which trigged the need for CPAP. I was told what to expect by my Primary Care & Pulmonologist. However I have friends that didn’t know what to expect. So Thank you for helping anyone who didn’t get the details of what to expect and understand the therapy and physically why you need it to save your heart and brain.
I come from a family of chronic apnea sufferers. I cured my apnea through this daily routine: practice mouth and throat exercises 7 minutes a day, drink 2 quarts water a day (helped my sinuses), lost all my excess weight. 6 weeks later I was sleeping through the night no snoring, no apnea.
Thank you for this video. I'm in the process of waiting to receive my cpap. My Dr said I needed a VSA machine due to my severity. However I just wanted to comment and hopefully it's not just me, but I've waited so long to take care of this that I'm having speech problems. I fall asleep at anytime I'm sitting still. I was waiting to have a miracle happen the first night. Thank you for letting me know it takes time.
One of the most critical components of getting 'normal sleep' is actually feeling tired at the same time of day, AND feeling tired at a time of day that will allow you to get a full 8 hours of sleep. There's nothing like actually 'wanting to go to bed' 8 to 10 hours before your head hits the pillow.
Thanks for this amazing interview! I have had a cpap machine since 2006 and am now on my 3rd machine as of November last year. Just for the record this man is right! It took me about 6 months to get used to my mask and as time has gone on, the masks have gotten better as well. I have a mask that is a full face mask, ( have always used one). I am a mouth breather and tried the nasal mask years ago and could not use it at all. The mask I have now has memory foam that fits up against my face and once I have it on, I can't really feel it like I could with the silicone masks which I had used since the beginning. Other things that may make a difference that I didn't notice here, is that you need to make sure your face is clear of excess skin oils. I noticed that at times I would experience air leakage where my mask fits up against my face. The oils keep the mask from adhering like it should. So many times, I will just use a baby wipe, or makeup remover wipe to make sure my face is clear of oil and especially makeup. If you wear makeup, you need to be sure and remove it as it will cause the mask to not adhere correctly. You will know because; to word it nicely, the mask makes noises that sound like flatulence and that WILL wake you up. :) My biggest issue was having something in/on my face. I almost drowned as a child and have real issues with stuff close to my face. That first 6 months, I would wake up a lot with it off of my face. Over a period of time I did get used to it, and even now if I am tired during the day and take a 30 minute nap, I wear my mask. I had high blood pressure for years. I also was always tired. I would fall asleep any time I sat still for a while. I was also depressed and sleep apnea can also contribute to that since you feel tired and crappy ALL THE TIME! Yes, being edgy, tired, short-tempered can make you no fun to be around as well. The machine I replaced in November started just quitting in the middle of the night. I don't know what the problem was, maybe it was just wearing out, but I would wake up from a horrible nightmare of feeling like either I was drowning or being choked to death, both of which are terrifying. I would snap the mask off and then realize that the machine was not running. So I contacted my pulmonologist and they scheduled an appointment for me. All I can say is don't give up on using the mask. I believe if you are required to wear it for a certain amount of time in order for your insurance to cover it, talk to your pulmonologist since I do believe they give you around 6 months to get used to wearing one. But be proactive and be aware and ask questions if you have them. I also think the thing with what was said about hypnosis might help a person who has a problem with having the mask on your face. I use guided meditation that I listen to on my cell phone, (mp3 format). As was mentioned hypnosis can't fix a physical issue that causes sleep apnea, but it can help the issue of relaxing and allowing the mask on your face. When I first started using the mask I literally would tear it off my face after about 5 minutes. I would have panic attacks and that was hard to overcome. So think about the possibility of checking into guided meditation. There are some great ones on youtube. One last thing also, I notice people using a number. My doctor told me that I had about the worst case of sleep apnea he had ever seen. My positive air pressure is set at 15ppi. That is the only number I remember. It may be that he told me initially 14 years ago, and forgot, but I have never forgotten the pressure setting on the machine.
This is a great post. I use a fabric mask liner by Pad-a-cheek so I don't need to worry about washing my face before bed. I recommend not to sell your old CPAP machines if they still work, keep at least one old working machine as a backup in case your main machine breaks down. You can get a brand new machine every 5 years with most insurance plans (and either a new or loaner machine right away if your current machine breaks), so be sure to get a new one when insurance allows so you have a backup. Or buy a cheap used $100 machine on eBay or Craigslist to use as a backup (or a primary if you don't have insurance). Get a machine that is data capable so that you can look at charts of your data using the free Oscar software. I look at my charts every 2-3 weeks to ensure my AHI number is OK and to see if my mask is leaking too much, etc..
i did the at home study n i was positive for sleep apnea. got a machine and slept like a baby the first time i used it. so it depends on the person. i know i cant sleep w/o it now, kinda wished i got tested many years ago. sleep is wonderful now.
I have been choking and gasping for air in my sleep for 3 years (this started while I was pregnant with my son) it is the scariest thing to wake up grasping my throat and trying to get a breath in. I thought it was due to being exposed to a massive amount of black mold and wrote it off because the doctors weren't concerned It is the worst feeling, I sit there for a while after scared to go back to sleep. 6 years ago when i was pregnant with my daughter my blood pressure went up and they tried to control it she was born 3 months early due to it not responding to the blood pressure pills either way they probably couldn't have gave me a dose that would have controlled it. My son was born 2 months early. Now you can kind of see I was seeing a doctor regularly and complaining regularly about the issues I was having and they could see the blood pressure being high never once did they ever bring up anything about sleep apnea even when I was complaining of waking up choking in the middle of the night. Now fast forward 6 years and I'm sitting here on the maximum dose of two different blood pressure medications finally was referred to a Cardiologist had a heart Echo done and found out that my heart muscle has thickened. My pulse won't go down below 113 even at rest when I'm sitting. They've seen my blood pressure is high is 268 / 168 and finally I started reading up and looking into things on the internet. I told cardiologist I think it is sleep apnea I think that that's what's causing this so finally 6 years later and I feel exhausted every day I don't have patience anymore which is hard cuz I have a 6 year old and a 3 year old. I demanded a sleep study I told them that this is what it is and I can't keep on going through this. My sleep study is in 2 days and I can't wait. Because once you wake up at night and you're choking and you know that there's something wrong and you want it fixed once you find out that there's possibly something that is causing all of it. You have a little bit of Hope rather than just thinking that you were born with every problem in the book. And being irritable and Honore all the time yeah I understand that one too.
Sara Perry, I'm going through the start of this w yhe heart.. I have HCM RASopathy. Checking for another defect through dna testing also. Mine has no surgery for it. BP is high too & having difficulties finding a med and dose that works properly. The new BP standard for this type is 120/70. Just did a home test for apnea, waiting for the results. How have you come out on the machine & w the heart issue a year later? It'd be interesting to know. I do hope you are doing well.
(Disclaimer: I'm not an M.D. just an apnea patient) Initially you do need a sleep study which is evaluated by a sleep doctor (usually a neurologist or pulmonologist MD who is also board certified in sleep medicine). But thereafter, if you don't have a complicated type of apnea (e.g. no central apneas) or major underlying health problems, and if you get a 'data capable' 'Auto' CPAP machine, you can use the free Oscar PC software to look at charts of your CPAP machine's data. If you read about how to look at the Oscar charts and take advice from experts on apnea forums, you can adjust your own machine settings and pressure. Assuming you are have only typical obstructive apnea, you don't need to keep running over and over to a sleep lab to adjust your pressure or each time you need to try find the new pressure when you get a new style of mask. Your pressure settings will change as you age or gain/lose weight, if you change sleep positions (you will have much more apnea if you sleep on your back), or if you change mask styles. You should be looking at your data often and keep your AHI under 5, ideally around .5 to 2.
I just couldn't fall asleep having the mask on and pretty much gave up on it, a friend said to make the water as icy cold as you could before putting it on and I now put ice cubes in the water. it was a game changer for me, I now look forward to bedtime and I'm usually out within a couple of minutes, I just love that cool fresh breeze coming through. my next challenge is how do i keep it on when woken in the middle of the morning, I don't feel like getting out of bed to get more ice so i usually rip it off. TBC
Yes, an insulated thermos mug. I have a Camelbak insulated travel mug, it keeps ice for days. But wanting it cold sounds weird because I like warmth and turn up the heat on my heated hose. Maybe I'll try turning off my machine's hose heater and try ice on a hot night just out of curiosity.
thanks for posting this. this has been my spot on experience. i've been suffering the way you did. my number is 89 and i'm miserable and hoping I find a better solution than my mouth mask and cpap, or better adjust it. the nurse at my doctor just keeps telling me, it takes a bit to get used to for some. NO SHIT LADY!!
Great interview! Very helpful! I am on my third day with my new CPAP, hoping I get more used to it. I am sleeping about 5-6 hours on it, i was wondering if that was a normal amount starting out, and you answered my question! Thank you!
Wow love this video. This guy went through everything that I did exactly he explained it so well and I totally agree with him. The doctors do not help and you have to sort it out by yourself on a trial and error method. All the best mate I hope you feel better. Cheers, Jeff Valdemar
Omg! Thank you!💜 the 1st one I was given I just couldn't cope with. Then my doctor split with no referal to anyone else, in fact they told me there wasnt anyone else locally, 100+ miles around. Which i discovered recently was false. I just gave up, it is a challenge when you have a competent doctor. I called a new doctor today 5 years later because I watched you.
APap machines (Automatic pressure adjusting machines) are now the norm and have practically removed sleep testing centers out of the equation when it comes to adjustments. Even if you only use a straight set Cpap machine, you can purchase a Auto machine and if you know your pressure, you can set the auto machine yourself. Quite a few sleep centers bucked the Auto machines because they couldn't see the patient as much and bill them or their insurance for the visit. Masks these days are cheaper than ever considering the online outlets selling them are trying to stay competitive and most offer free 30 day trials of their masks, so you can return them for another mask or even another size with no charge, except for return shipping. I'm a VERY experienced Cpap/Apap wearer and my advice is to avoid your local DME after the purchase of your initial machine, usually by your insurance after a trial. I can run circles around CPAP "experts" in my local DME office. Maintain a good relationship with them and keep getting your basic supplies provided to you by your insurance...(tubing, filters,etc) but shop online for your masks.
@@JMaurissen DME is an acronym for Durable Medical Equipment. He's referring to a local company that sells Durable Medical Equipment having limited knowledge compared to the information/products available online.
How do I check the machine to find my ahi? Its only my first week, mask nasal pillow seems comfy but wake up after 4-5 hours, feeling like it's not much airflow, take it off. Still feel horrible waking up, exhausted, in pain. Fibromyalgia, feel like I'm dying. Only 58.
Oh my gosh!! I loved this presentation!! I just had my sleep study at the hospital because I became a heart patient in Feb of this year. The bed was awful! I felt like Darth Vadar too!! I was more exhausted at 5a when I was sent home then when I went to sleep the night before. I'm so darn excited to start with my CPAP ... I am getting the nasal mask. I am so tired of being tired and taking 2 naps a day.Thank you thank you. I so related to everything you talked about!! ❤❤❤ 3:35
There's also an interesting book I read it was written by a sleep apnea patient & his doctor . It's called Phantom of The Night . I have severe obstructive sleep apnea . It caused oxygen deprivation in my sleep which caused damage to the cognitive function of my brain before I was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea . In February ' 98 I had surgery called Uvulapalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP for short. Prior to the surgery I was on a Bipap machine for sleep & for naps w/2 lpm of oxgygen bled in & on continuos oxygen at home & if I went out I had to bring my portable oxygen w/me .The surgery got me off of the continuous oxygen
I am only 4'11" tall and 100 lbs, and I have sleep apnea. The first machine I had I had no way of adjusting any settings myself. But my new machine I can adjust so many things and the pressures are automatic. I also have the option of smart start so it starts up as soon as I have my mask on. Love this new machine. Fortunately my insurance paid for the whole works... the machine, mask et al. I purchased the So Clean machine on my own, that way I am able to keep my equipment sterilized. I have never seen a apnea machine under $1000.00, my whole unit cost $2,350.00 all covered by insurance. I have the ResMed Airsense 10. I am donating my old machine for someone who cannot afford to buy one. The part that was the hardest to adjust to is the mask. I have a small face but the kids size is too small, and the adult small is better but takes some adjustments. The trick is making sure the straps are set tight enough so the mask doesn't move if you sleep on your side. But now I have the headstraps set properly my mask doesn't move and the pillow I have works well, I use a "My Pillow" pillow and it is the only pillow I have bought that actually works well with the mask I have to use.
This all sounds great. Except there is no reason you need to sterilize your equipment. No need for a 'So Clean'. That is a myth/scam. Just use soap and water on mask and water chamber. There's no reason to clean the hose (unless it looks visibly dirty or it you have allergies and some allergen gets in there, it is not an 'infection risk'). I never wash my hose.
This is good information. In my personal case I found that I had apnea after falling asleep and having a bad traffic accident. At least nobody got injured. But when I talked to my doctor I had the sleep test at home an I came with 97 apnea events per hour. I have been using it for over two years and it had been a blessing. About the attachments for your machine don’t rely on the insurance prices out of pocket. In my case every time they gave filters for the machine I had to pay $10.00 copay for two filters. I actually found the filters on Amazon and for $20.00 I get 160 filters.
when I have a cold, I get my sinus (nose) open before putting on the mask, I use nasal inhalers or pills to clear the airways, then the cPAP PRESSURE will usually keep one nostril open the rest of the night
I had a .$99 credit on Amazon so the book didn't cost me anything and I just read it in no time. I think it was encouraging in what I already know are the upsides to CPAP therapy. This little books' best target audience is snorers who think they should probably go to the doctor but won't. They should be terrified.
So ... after two years using mi cpap , never stopped using it ... life changer ... got used to it after the first day ...from gasping for air every minute to sleeping 8 hours not waking up ...
I just started my sleep apnea therapy, I used to use cannabis all the time and i had to quit using cannabis and CBD because it would relax me so much that my apnea/snoring was exponentially worse. Noting that this was my experience and it probably isn't the same for everyone. I will however use it conjunction with my CPAP machine and see how that is.
This is touching i just got diagnosed with sleep apena i stop breathing 66 tims an hour at night and getting my cpap machine on Friday and scared for it i am always sleeping in the day i fall asleep alot
Thxs for this informative video. I'm going through this now. Waiting on my machine. I stopped breathing 61 times in an hour, can't wait to get a good sleep!!!
I just got my APAP machine last machine and this guy, Phil, is spot on what to expect. I had a sleep study recommended by my doctor. It take weeks and months from the initial visit with the sleep doctor to getting setup with a machine and getting adjusted with the right mask.
The other thing (besides a CPAP machine) that gave me new life was getting my deviated septum fixed so I could actually uptake/intake oxytocin (which is what the Requirement is for vasodilation in the entire body.)
I rented a machine for 6 months but never took it out the box. That was the third box I rented. The first 2 I used but never persevered. After reading this book I'm determined to stick with it. My body is struggling and I need to use the machine as I'm knackered. I have severe sleep apnea and I know the affect it is having on my body which is basically killing me slowly. No more, time to change 🙏
Very informative video. I'm a new user, and a lot of the stuff that was talked about I'm experiencing myself right now. It's amazing that nobody really gives you any idea what you should out for or how do you clean everything. You have to do your own research I guess. All in all a very helpful video. Phil is really a GREAT guy for you to have to explain everything in plain language.
Read cpaptalk.com for advice. The experts there say there is no reason you need to sterilize your equipment. No need for a 'So Clean'. That is a myth/scam. Just use soap and water on mask and water chamber. There's no reason to clean the hose (unless it looks visibly dirty or it you have allergies and some allergen gets in there, it is not an 'infection risk'). I never wash my hose.
The reason I pull mine off is if my nose gets congested.. saline and anti histamines are very helpful. If I can’t breathe through my nose, I pull that thing off during the night.
Get a full face mask so if you end up having your sinuses get stuffy your mouth will open and you'll continue to get CPAP treatment for the remainder of the night instead of pulling it off your face.
I have my CPAP (actually a BiPap) machine for over 7 years and I am now eligible by Medicare rules for a new machine, but my insurance company made me to go for another sleep study, which resulted in that I should be ok now with a standard CPAP . Well, its on order now and we'll see how it works out. But I must say, it took me last time almost a year to get used to use the machine every night, due to its noise and the tubing and air leakage from the mask (using a full-faced mask as I'm a mouth-breather). Now I cant get to sleep without using the machine. But I also must say, it has not helped me much with my sleepiness during the day, although it has not affected me while driving, I can fall asleep anyplace I go or just watching TV without taking my Nuvigil to stay awake. But what is worse, I cant understand that these DME suppliers/manufacturers have not come up yet with a comfortable mask design that does not leak or fits properly; I tried out about 10 different mouth- or full-faced masks by replacing the face cushion regularly, which is a continuous expense.
I used a CPAP machine for about 6 months, slept better, etc BUT I then got eustachian tube disfunction and lost some of my hearing in both ears!!! Not nice. I was not warned that this could happen. I am still furious about it. My hearing is very important to me…you don't even know how much you value it until it is impaired!!
Sara Roseman I'm on this hearing perfect till 6 m9nths woukd u Facebook me I'm confused hiw this cpap causes hearing loss gidget kunkel leach I'm in idaho
Simular has happened to me Glenn. Only my issue is going on six months. I was diagnosed with Shingles too both of my ear tubes. I was told I am looking at possibly a year and a half to clearing up. I have tried to research but, it’s not really wise in many ways. Becoming obsessed creates even more stress for me. Which BTW, is the why and how shingles can break out at anytime day or night. There is no cure for shingles. I only manage it.
My friend thought I was Narcoleptic as well as he self-diagnosed himself as that temporarily while in school and exhausted. I don't believe he was and even though I have the symptoms I know I don't have all the typical symptoms because my narcoleptic symptoms are the result of exhaustion from lack of sleep because I have bad sleep apnea (finally got diagnosed). Your video helped because I am just going through this now. I still don't have my CPAP yet. I just did the sleep study and 2 hours in they put the CPAP on me because they said I stop breathing too often. What I do worry about is I have had Pneumonia 7 times and I worry about not cleaning the CPAP well enough. I am immunosuppressed as well as I have no kidneys and am dependent on a dialysis machine to live as well. Ya, I am a mess for a middle ager.
There are self adjusting CPAP machines. Even if you have a prescription your needs may change over time. If I am congested I cannot use my CPAP. I’m considering getting a full face mask for when I am congested.
Well, I diagnosed myself with sleep apnea.It is easy enough, have an ipad by the bed record sound through the whole night and by reviewing the recording, I could hear myself chocking from my snoring and stopping breathing throughout the night. So, just to getting started with the treatment right away I ordered myself a resmed airsense 10 autoset machine directly from resmed. When the corona situation clears, I will have my doctor prescribe a sleep analyses so that I can have a proper follow up on this. I have however fooled around with the settings on the machine by myself and the sleep reports show less and less apnea events and I am starting to feel more rested after sleep. So, I still think one should see the doctor for this, but a lot can be done on your own..
I just did the same thing and ordered that unit as well! Just waiting to get it delivered. I have not been to a sleep clinic as well but can’t wait to finally get a good night sleep! The whole process of the clinic and talking to your doctor is a pain the ass and a very slow process!
Agree. Read cpaptalk.com forum for advice. Download the free Oscar software for PC/Mac and you can look at charts of your data which will give you an idea if your mask is leaking too much or if you might need a pressure change.
@@alaefarmestatesllc yes, i ordered directly from resmed, with no prescription. You have to fill inn some data on when you were diagnosed and stuff like that, but I just made up something.
My only complaint is he attaches purchasing a used machine to someone who hasn't gone in for the study. Up here in Maine, many machines are sold to others who've had the study, but can't afford the new machine! While I got mine years ago, my husband needs one now and we can't afford a new machine. Used, it is! Saved us a bunch of money, Amazon sales on masks, tubing and filters, we are good to go.
I got mine with a few hours on it i new i needed one , but never went to the doctor, i had a Resmed 9 auto set, it changed my life , and i justnow bought a Resmed 10 , with very low hrs on it, im still doing good , without ever going to a doctor
Very informative video. Thanks for posting it. I can relate to SO many things Phil is talking about. It helps to know that I am not alone thinking and feeling the way that I do about using a CPAP machine for the first time and the months that have followed.
i had the surgery had my uvula removed as well as some tissue removed from back of my throat and sections of my tounge shrunk.......most painful surgery ever ....boy dont wish that on anyone.
I got diagnosed through the VA and I had a much easier time than you did adjusting to the mask, of course, I was a commercial diver so the mask was no big deal. I was rated at 72 so it was really bad. After being on the CPAP it dropped to 2. Thanks for sharing this info.
When you can only see a doctor for 10 minutes every few months, thank god for "Doctor Google" and RUclips! It literally took me years (and realizing the deaths of two friends were caused by untreated apnea) just to get a doctor to pay attention to me. Then there was insurance that insisted I be overweight to qualify. Anyway, how long does it take to stop hating everybody? !! lol.
If you're using a autoset machine you don't need to use preset pressures, in fact the autoset machines bypass any preset pressures that might be in the machine.
Except that you do need to know what your minimum pressure should be, you should set that. The minimum needs to be one that is comfortable and that eliminates enough of your apnea incidents. On some machines the default minimum pressure is way too low for some people (e.g. 4cm). All 'Auto' machines have 'min' and 'max' settings which you can change yourself if you know how to get into 'provider' mode, also you can choose to instead set to one constant pressure 'CPAP mode'.
I get congested easily, so using a CPAP was extremely difficult. Forcing air through constricted nostrils is just too counter-productive. What I need to do is see an ear, nose and throat specialist and address this congestion issue. That and lose a shit-ton of weight, and I hope by the grace of God that'll get rid of my sleep apnea. I don't want to be strapped to a machine for the rest of my natural life.
I JUST STARTED USING MINE AND 3 DAYS IN I GOT A SINUS INFECTION AND ABOUT TO START USING IT AGAIN AFTER 3 DAYS OFF. THIS VIDEO HAS REALLY HEALPED ME UNDERSTAND AND I JUST BOUGHT HIS BOOK
Awesome interview !! I too, Had a problem with getting used to the full mask !! So I went to just the nasal mask !! What a difference !! And a couple of Tweaks of air flow.
Thank you for this informative video. I just started on CPAP. Used it twice. I have a nasal pillow. The pressure is too high I think. I’m not liking it at all. I’m going to try the full face mask. My sinuses are very sore. I’m finding it very hard to adjust.
My sleep study was in 2006. My Dr. gave an Rx good for only 1 year. To get a new Rx I had to see his CNP and she would berate me for not coming in each year. I should not have to $$ for a new Rx each year to buy supplies.or pay for another sleep study to buy a new machine. For $99 I got a lifetime (99 years) online Rx from a MD. I used Health Sqyre, but Easy Breathe is another company offering online Rx. My research led me to choose the AirSense 10 Auto. Its a great machine. I paid under $600 online without insurance which was about what I would have paid using insurance and an in network DME. I still use the Opti-Life nasal pillows & headgear but they are discontinued and hard to find. The Nuance straps are garbage and get very sticky after a couple of months. My AHI is always less than 2. Central AI is 0.1 I've tried nasal and full face masks but I can't stand them. Do your own research - most DME providers don't have a lot of product knowledge and they push the products that make them the most $$, not the products that would be best for you. Learn how to access the clinican's menu and tweak the settings to suit you. That is not illegal. I recommend a humidifer and heated tubing to prevent "rainout" - water condensing in the tube. I also buy the better quality humidifier tank that works with tap water. I don't use distilled water.
I've been on CPAPfor over 20 years. It even triggers my sleep. I put it on and I instantly fall asleep. I have many friends who have started sine then and they do not stay with it. The biggest complaint is that the ramping up phase makes them feel suffocated. I tell them to turn it on, go brush their teeth and such and by that time, it will have ramped up. this simple thing is like a shocking surprise to them DUH!My MD said to use it every time I am in a reclining position ( like watching TVor reading) I was in the hospital one time and another MD told me I could not do that and that I was to wait till I was falling asleep to put it on. Now think about that, that is stupid.
On most machines, you can easily turn off the ramp feature. It is optional. It is too bad that no one tells new users that, I hope that tip is in this guys "Things your doctor won't tell you" book. Ask your DME to help you turn it off. (Most machines seem to have settings locked but you just have to know the trick to unlock, usually holding two buttons down at once.) Many users turn off the ramp feature. I hated the ramp and so turned it off when I was on a lower pressure, but now that I've increased my pressure, the ramp is great (i.e. because my final pressure is so high, the ramp starting pressure is easy to breath with).
I’ve been on CPAP two weeks. I completely figured out how to use my machine without the need of these so-called prescriptions….they prescribe ridiculous air pressure that fills your stomach up with air and also puts pressure in your ears. Turn off the ramp, adjust the pressure for what works for you. I also got absolutely different advice which was to wear the mask as much as you can even if you’re not sleeping to minimize the brain being traumatized by the fact that you’re wearing a mask while you sleep.
Im way pass the introduction process to sleep apnea etc.Im 4 years into it its a worldwide problem even downunder in Australia & NZ.We give thanks to our doctors, cardiologists & their referrals to respiratory clinics.I never got angry about my condition.As theres always someone who has gone there before you.Like most things i guess your never the first.Was amazed it affected women & men of all ages.My 4th year and im doing ok.There are some good tips in this post in some of the comments...which im gonna try.
i started CPAP in Sept 2020 and packed it up last night. the masks and head gear ( i tried 3 and various covers) broke out my face =rash, welts, pimples, itching itching itching. the inside of my nostrils are raw. i cannot deal with this
I finally got approved for a cpap last year my sleep study came back at 90 incedents per hour I was diagnosed over 20 yrs ago but never had health insurance to try and fix it but recently started me off with a full mask bipap that never fit correctly and leaked air into my eye and if I slept even slightly sideways it would lose seal very loudly... next I switched to a nasal mask which sealed much better but my pressure was set way too high and I would wake up in tremendous pain feeling like I was blown up like a balloon like in the cartoons when the charechter gets blown full of air and my stomach would hurt until I burped and farted for like 45 min every morning .... then they turned my pressure down from 22 to 19 which is much better but probably still a little too high I’ll b going to my next sleep study next month I also had an issue where I had to change the humidity and temp because it was literally spraying water in my face this I was able to do on the machine in the settings myself. Currently it seems to be helping quite a bit but cuddling with my fiancé is super difficult because it’s loud and will vent air right at her so now I sleep in the same bed but not holding her as I used to also on the top ridge of my nose is currently blistered from the rubbing of the nasal mask to the point that I have a scab across there and have for about a month now... I’m currently hoping to try and see if getting surgery and removing my tonsils and other options can be an option for me I’ve also recently seen dental sleep apnea devices that I’m interested in but wonder if they actually work
So as a former c-crap user and no it did not help me. My issue with was.. we can send someone into space to live on a space station for months but the best we can come up with to solve the breathing issue while sleeping is a hose with a mask blowing air in the face like a leaf blower. Cpap doesn't cure the problem it's a bandaid at best. Bless you that had success with c-crap. It's frustrating for sure. I had sinus surgery and that helped me out. Plus losing weight and changing my diet and i ended up giving away my cpap machine to someone who was in need but couldn't afford it.
" we can send someone into space to live on a space station for months but the best we can come up with to solve the breathing issue while sleeping is a hose with a mask blowing air". Spot on. They want to keep us sick so they can keep billing us.
The "c-crap" is not surprising to relieve sinus congestion because that is a tighter and smaller hole, usually due to allergies. The machine helps keep airway open around your throat area due to tongue and or fat forcing it to close. With sinuses, it is about not be able to breathe through your nose. Here it is about not being able to breathe at all. Air is unable to get to your lungs.
My friend Chris thought I was a narcoleptic as well but that is different even though it SEEMS like the symptoms are the same. Just typing what I was 30 seconds ago I fell asleep at least 10 times while trying to type it. Had to go back and correct a LOT of spelling mistakes and gibberish lol.
In 1999 I was first tested...90 times an hour with 8 minutes deep sleep in 8 hrs. First couple years on cpap were new life...but, over time in can and has progressed. From a 12 setting it got wound up to 20 in a few years. Now on bipap at 21/17. Its a nightmare...the mask I finally found that has been great was discontinued. And after 5 years of using a med. size. I have found I should have had a med. wide that was never offered from my supply. All the Dr.s want to do is dictate compliance with no thought or effort of doing anything to make the problem better. No money in healing people...I would be scared but really too tired to care at this point. Dry outs, rain outs and a power outage that I almost didn't wake up out of. Most nights I have to keep my hand on the mask all night to keep a seal. Only thing I have noticed a slight difference was acupuncture...there is a key to the problem there I have not been able to follow up with.
@@buggsy5 Will have to be pro active...Drs offer no cure. They only dictate pressures and charge hundreds to look at card and machine. Wim Hof breathing technique...diet and exercise. Gut health...
Ask for help on cpaptalk.com. There might be people who would sell you gently used masks of the old discontinued kind you like. They will suggest a heated hose to prevent rainout or a hose sleeve. There's an inexpensive alarm device someone suggested that makes a lot of noise if a power outage occurs to wake you up. You need a new mask, there are many new types to try.
@@lrob12345 Thank you for the concerned reply. I have bought up several masks and refills...and another bipap. But have decided since Dr's are content to merely dictate pressure, and charge my insurance for doing basically nothing but a sight exam. I will have to be proactive to get pressure down myself. They have no intention of healing nor do they know how. I have started several of Dr. Gundrys formulas to heal gut and lose weight...and some very aggressive acupuncture from an old master I recently found. 30 pounds off in 2 months already and not hungry all the time. New types of masks are all snug fit and small...they do not allow enough moisture. The lady at cpap supply basically said I will never get enough moisture at my pressure...and that was dismal verdict to say the least. I was offered to have my trachea cut and avoid the problem 20 years ago...punching a hole in my throat for a breathing tube seemed like a bad idea. I think sitting with 40-50 needles in me yesterday is a far better option. Just getting pressure down should not be a problem...waiting and complying only leads to a shortened life with a long list of lurking health issues.
@@leeswindle7790 That's excellent progress on losing weight. Have you set your machine's humidifier to the max setting? I have a Dreamstation and its water chamber is a bit too small and runs out of water in the middle of the night so a Resmed or other brand might be better if you use the max humidity level. Also, a room humidifier might help. I suggest sleeping on your side and not on your back if you can do it, you might need less pressure. Also a soft cervical collar for sleeping, I use this: smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FVPB4PJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (soft blue Comfort model), but you'd have to experiment with the collar height, I use a 3 inch collar which might be too short for others. I'm about to try this new mask, and it has options of a large frame and a wide cushion size : www.thecpapshop.com/resmed-airfit-f30i-full-face-cpap-mask-with-headgear (although a large-wide isn't sold together so looks like you get stuck paying an extra $60 for that combination). Get a heated tube or tube sleeve to reduce or prevent rainouts and a power outage alarm: www.amazon.com/Reliance-Control-Corporation-MfrPartNo-THP207M/dp/B018A30T8Q/ref=sr_1_5 . I agree about not waiting for your docs to do something, but it is worth it to keep trying different masks, you cannot wait until you lose more weight, it is not guaranteed to reduce your pressure needs although it hopefully might. To save $ if insurance won't pay, you can look on eBay or Craigslist for used masks in your size and favorite model, or ask if anyone has a used one to sell on various apnea forums. If your DME doesn't have a certain size in stock, try to demand that they order it, or try to get your doctor to call the DME and tell them they need to get you that specific size.
What BRAND soap/cleaner do you use? I'm new to using a cpap machine and can't find a soap that doesn't have a strong smell to it. Thanks for the helpful video.
I was going down the rabbit hole, I was extremely sleepy. I am 57 years old and I felt like I was 80. My blood pressure was high. I was falling asleep all the time. I now have a CPAP, it is the best thing in my life. I feel like a new person. I have a ResMed made for women.
I'm watching this video 6 years after it's release and so far everything mentioned still stands true even years later. In my opinion I believe there's a desperate need for something similar to CPAP councilors to educate patients and advise them of basic things to ease into CPAP life. We have smoking sensation councilors which do the same thing regarding nicotine addiction so why not sleep?
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Been using my full face mask and machine for 3 weeks now, and the machine seems to be doing it's job when I'm asleep. Unfortunately, I've suffered from insomnia for many years, and so far the machine therapy has done nothing for that condition. So I get a read out of .7 episodes per hour which is great, but I'm sleeping maybe one to two hours only per night. Insomnia and apnea is a terrible combo.
I’m a sleep tech, and this person is telling everything I would tell a patient 🙏🙏🙏
I am a sleep lab technician. I found your interview to be very insightful and informative. Thank you for the positive and negative experience you shared. I will take this to heart, and will instruct my patients accordingly.
I have been using a CPAP since 2001 - almost 20 years. I find it difficult to sleep without one now. My initial story is similar but with important differences. I have only had 1 sleep study back in 2000. I can manage my system on my own now. Before my sleep study, I would fall asleep every time I stopped moving. I had to fight to stay awake at red lights. That was dangerous for sure.
In 2000 I was not a perfect specimen of a human male but not horribly overweight either. Strong, 200 lbs linebacker type strong, with a big body type in general. But I felt bad and tired all the time. In contrast, 20 year later, I feel GOOD all the time. I have zero complaints.
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Back in 2000, I did lift weights and did martial arts every day. Did I snore you ask? LOL. There are epic stories about my snoring. One time I was traveling in Italy (Florence) and the hotel did not have airconditioning. So I sleep with the window open. The next morning after the first night the people across the hall were talking to me and stated they were kind of afraid to walk down the dark street (ally) to the hotel when they came back from the bar because they thought there was a bear around. It was me snoring.
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I was an engineer (still am, I suppose, but I am a lawyer now) and worked with numbers all the time. Toward the end (when I had to do something) it was getting difficult for me to look at a number and then write it down correctly. Very bad for an engineer. I had no energy, had high blood pressure.
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So I have my sleep study. During the sleep study, the guy running the study said, after about an hour, you clearly have a problem. So I going to determine the pressure you need and then I am going to let you sleep. So he did. The next morning I wake up and I could not believe the feeling. I could feel it in my brain. Unmistakable. Something good had happened during the night. The guy said when he let me sleep, I stayed in REM sleep for 25 minutes straight before my mask seal developed a leak and I came out of REM. He said normal REM sleep last no longer than 5 minutes at a time.
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Once I got my CPAP, I thought, man, this sucks, I am never going to get used to this. But I remembered how I felt after the sleep study and I wanted to fell that again. So I persevered, and the CPAP became easy to tolerate. And when I woke up it was like a drug, better than any drug I had ever done. My mind was clear and rested and ready to go. Like being a kid again. I could not wait to get home at the end of a day and go to sleep so I could wake up and feel the drug. Unfortunately, that feeling wears off after a time. But I have not gone a night since such time without a CPAP (on purpose).
Sometimes my mask will break and I do not have a backup and have to order a new one. It is torture until the new mask comes. Now I have some backups. I had to order 4 CPAP machines over the years. Most of the time without a prescription (hard to find a source but it can be donw). My last CPAP cost me $200 RESMED SleepSense 10 - my regular doctor wrote me a prescription - no big deal. My mask costs about $100 to $150 depending on the type I buy.
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I use a full face mask because I want to be able to sleep when my nose is stopped up, which is not very often but still a pain when it happens. And when your nose is stopped up one probably needs sleep more than ever.
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I will never sleep without a CPAP again on purpose. I do not care if I "need one" or not. I believe the need for good sleep is underestimated and Good, effective sleep is critical for health in the long term for anyone. Thus, I truly believe a CPAP will prolong anyone's life. z
I don’t fall asleep driving as much, I wake up and very quickly I’m alert… this device has changed my life like crazy!
Everyone that has sleep apnea and uses a CPAP should here this guys testimony.
Agreed very helpful, excited to try my new mask tonight. The first two nights with it, we're the worst.
I had recently moved back in with my mother due to financial necessity. She is a retired nurse and could hear me snoring at night and said that it sounded like I was having trouble catching while sleeping and thought I had sleep apnea and was consistently telling me to get a sleep study done. I was worried about cost. But it got so bad that I was waking up 4 or 5 times a night, was nearly dosing off while driving (I was literally slapping myself whenever I felt like dosing off while driving) and just felt like I was like a zombie. I guess you could say I was the walking dead. So I went to a sleep clinic and did they had me do a home sleep study and found I stopped breathing 70 times per hour. I got a CPAP machine and the difference was noticeable from the get go. I was wide awake. I've had the machine for about a month now and my mother said my skin tone looks better and it looks like I'm losing weight. Though I do admit I am still getting used to it, but I make sure I have it on every night before I go to bed,
This makes me want to get a sleep study done.
This video is a gem. I'm from the UK and we can get the sleep app machine free on our National Health Service fortunately. I'm a slight to moderate sufferer of Sleep Apnea and I'm grateful to both you gentlemen. Losing weight is essential and it is better to be a light sufferer than a heavy one. I've lost 84 pounds in one year and it feels really good. I'm 63 years old and I can once again run like a rocket. Thank you both for your straight forward talk on this dreadful ailment and please keep people informed because sleep apnea., according to what i've read, can cause people to die from 12 up to 15 years earlier.
How much damage to his heart could have been avoided, if insurance just would’ve let him do the sleep study earlier in life?
to all sleep apnea sufferers try those tips : avoid milk products , reduce sugar intake ,drink some apple cider vinegar with water , also lemon balm tea might help a bit ... as well listening to mooji , walking or other movement 20 minutes per day , taking a natural not synthetic food based multivitamin .. and eating cleaner better quality foods ,also some plants release oxygen and help us breath better . good luck people .
Thanks 🙂
I'm on that route. i was 280 now 180 only snow now but no stop breathing 71 times a hour
anymore
exacly thank god
Lemon and vinegar and histamines - that's just a nutty recommendation. You should avoid high histamines! There's no reason to avoid milk unless you are intolerant.
I was having 98 episodes per hour.
I was waking up with tremendous headaches, sore throat, falling asleep at my job, twice while driving, gaining weight, I got my machine.
I have had a problem since day one.
I feel great ! Lost weight, have energy.
I’ll never stop using it.
It saved my life !!!!
Haven’t had a problem I meant to say
@@Hollyrock712 At least I no longer fall asleep standing up anymore in my apartment so a little better but still not getting good enough sleep :(
Wow, Finaly a person who understands the struggle and also is willing to provide us with real support we can use. Thank you so much for this video. I have now been 3 days without much sleep. Avoiding my machine, like you said. I was about to give up and call it quits. very useful and simpathetic video. Thanks again sir! I am ready for round 2
I am using my machine for about a year and it was one of the best things that ever happened to me. The difference in the quality of sleep has been night and day.
I have used it for over 10 years and paid over $4',000 machine study. It is great.
I'm getting ready to go through this journey next week. This video is awesome, you have eased my fears wish me luck. Love and peace to you all.
Many thanks, been searching for "devices to help obstructive sleep apnea" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you ever come across - letochy fast apnea plan - (should be on google have a look ) ? It is a smashing one off guide for discovering how to get rid of sleep apnea minus the headache. Ive heard some super things about it and my m8 got amazing success with it.
@@vladtyb9487 scammer
CPAP saved my life.
I've been on cpap since 2003. I fell asleep at red lights, during meetings, while driving and finally I crashed my new truck into a phone pole. I've been on it ever since. Life saver.
Winner of a video, been searching for "how do you fall asleep with a cpap machine?" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you ever come across - Cenatthew Harrowing Cure - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? It is a great exclusive product for discovering how to end your sleep apnea problem without the normal expense. Ive heard some decent things about it and my co-worker got amazing success with it.
@@Ultra_Unite scammer
I noticed a huge difference after a couple nights of using my machine. I was seeing spots and having eye pain. Once I started cpap it was a quick recovery. I have been using my machine for several years and it has changed my life.
I had the exact same experiences! I spent countless hours researching to get my therapy perfect. Never give up! It’s worth it!
Cheers for the Video clip! Apologies for chiming in, I am interested in your initial thoughts. Have you tried - Franaar Magic Dream Formula (google it)? It is a smashing one of a kind guide for eradicating sleep apnea and snoring minus the headache. Ive heard some amazing things about it and my good mate called Gray at very last got cool results with it.
Thanks so much for your advice! Last night was my first night using the cpap machine. I was so tired for a couple yrs. I could not even stay awake during the day all I did was nap. And still never felt rested. I know this will help. I want to be who I used to be! Fun lively, enjoy going out- walking and being with friends. I had become an old woman who had no energy at all. Barely made it thru the days at work and every eve just snatched tv and napped- weekends/ more napping. Still tired! So thankful for this video and all the info available. 🙏
I have never had issues with colds and my nasal mask. In fact, I have had fewer illnesses since using the CPAP.
Oh, and I was a skinny kid growing up and was always recognized as a major snorer. Not all of us are morbidly obese.
Same here. I thought it was just because I had big tonsils. As a child I was even accused of being anorexic by a doctor! Ya I was underweight...
You don't have to be obese to suffer from sleppapnea. My son suffers from it since he was a skinny child.
@@katieismobile8898 I was always slim (often called anorexic by peers) and active, but a big snorer and developed sleep apnoea age 30 (20 years ago). The doctor and the hospital consultant said I was the wrong sex, wrong size , wrong age and should see a psychiatrist. I started doing yoga which helped greatly. Luckily nowadays there's help online.
THIS GUY IS SUPER FANTASTIC. ALSO ENTERTAINING TO LISTEN TO. HE SHOULD DO TALKS AROUND THE NATION!!!! Give this guy a cigar. I mean a free Apnea Machine.
At about 33 mins, they discuss not knowing if CPAP can cause apnea to develop. It definitely can, and that's called "Treatment Emergent Central Sleep Apena", or sometimes has been called complex sleep apnea. If you think about it, if the machine causes a decrease of carbon dioxide in your blood, which is normally present to signal to the brain to take an inhale, then the breath is just going to stop until that CO2 builds up again. I recently started CPAP, and developed this problem, and the other night had a 30 second cessation of my breathing. Time go to into the sleep lab!
since I was a child, I could not figure out who the heck was sawing wood when I was asleep. I also spent a lot of time listening to my mother and waiting for her to take a breath. I think her early onset dementia was partly caused by sleep apnea. I went untreated till about 42. My daughter was in the drs office and he was asking her questions about how she was eating sleeping etc. she said she could not sleep because of my noise. The Dr came running out of the office to see me and shouted " you have to get a sleep study! You have sleep apnea and it could kill you!" He had just been put on one and was hypersensitive and he had been treating us for many years, so he was emotionally invested in this. I figured if he was that excited about it it must be important. He was right, I NEEDED one badly. I have used it ever since and thank God about my Dr's getting frantic.
Good summary of what you don’t know. I had s heart attack, which trigged the need for CPAP. I was told what to expect by my Primary Care & Pulmonologist. However I have friends that didn’t know what to expect. So Thank you for helping anyone who didn’t get the details of what to expect and understand the therapy and physically why you need it to save your heart and brain.
I come from a family of chronic apnea sufferers. I cured my apnea through this daily routine: practice mouth and throat exercises 7 minutes a day, drink 2 quarts water a day (helped my sinuses), lost all my excess weight. 6 weeks later I was sleeping through the night no snoring, no apnea.
Hi interesting... can you share which exercises you do? Thanks
How much weight did you loose
@@baileysice2715 There's videos here showing them. I forgot the name. Search exercise to help with apnea.
Simon _plzi Can u explain.please as I'm so frightened of my machine and now after this am going to Tey again but want to strengthen my throat thank s
Thank you for this video. I'm in the process of waiting to receive my cpap. My Dr said I needed a VSA machine due to my severity. However I just wanted to comment and hopefully it's not just me, but I've waited so long to take care of this that I'm having speech problems. I fall asleep at anytime I'm sitting still. I was waiting to have a miracle happen the first night. Thank you for letting me know it takes time.
One of the most critical components of getting 'normal sleep' is actually feeling tired at the same time of day, AND feeling tired at a time of day that will allow you to get a full 8 hours of sleep. There's nothing like actually 'wanting to go to bed' 8 to 10 hours before your head hits the pillow.
Thanks for this amazing interview! I have had a cpap machine since 2006 and am now on my 3rd machine as of November last year. Just for the record this man is right! It took me about 6 months to get used to my mask and as time has gone on, the masks have gotten better as well. I have a mask that is a full face mask, ( have always used one). I am a mouth breather and tried the nasal mask years ago and could not use it at all. The mask I have now has memory foam that fits up against my face and once I have it on, I can't really feel it like I could with the silicone masks which I had used since the beginning.
Other things that may make a difference that I didn't notice here, is that you need to make sure your face is clear of excess skin oils. I noticed that at times I would experience air leakage where my mask fits up against my face. The oils keep the mask from adhering like it should. So many times, I will just use a baby wipe, or makeup remover wipe to make sure my face is clear of oil and especially makeup. If you wear makeup, you need to be sure and remove it as it will cause the mask to not adhere correctly. You will know because; to word it nicely, the mask makes noises that sound like flatulence and that WILL wake you up. :)
My biggest issue was having something in/on my face. I almost drowned as a child and have real issues with stuff close to my face. That first 6 months, I would wake up a lot with it off of my face. Over a period of time I did get used to it, and even now if I am tired during the day and take a 30 minute nap, I wear my mask. I had high blood pressure for years. I also was always tired. I would fall asleep any time I sat still for a while. I was also depressed and sleep apnea can also contribute to that since you feel tired and crappy ALL THE TIME! Yes, being edgy, tired, short-tempered can make you no fun to be around as well.
The machine I replaced in November started just quitting in the middle of the night. I don't know what the problem was, maybe it was just wearing out, but I would wake up from a horrible nightmare of feeling like either I was drowning or being choked to death, both of which are terrifying. I would snap the mask off and then realize that the machine was not running. So I contacted my pulmonologist and they scheduled an appointment for me.
All I can say is don't give up on using the mask. I believe if you are required to wear it for a certain amount of time in order for your insurance to cover it, talk to your pulmonologist since I do believe they give you around 6 months to get used to wearing one. But be proactive and be aware and ask questions if you have them.
I also think the thing with what was said about hypnosis might help a person who has a problem with having the mask on your face. I use guided meditation that I listen to on my cell phone, (mp3 format). As was mentioned hypnosis can't fix a physical issue that causes sleep apnea, but it can help the issue of relaxing and allowing the mask on your face.
When I first started using the mask I literally would tear it off my face after about 5 minutes. I would have panic attacks and that was hard to overcome. So think about the possibility of checking into guided meditation. There are some great ones on youtube.
One last thing also, I notice people using a number. My doctor told me that I had about the worst case of sleep apnea he had ever seen. My positive air pressure is set at 15ppi. That is the only number I remember. It may be that he told me initially 14 years ago, and forgot, but I have never forgotten the pressure setting on the machine.
This is a great post. I use a fabric mask liner by Pad-a-cheek so I don't need to worry about washing my face before bed. I recommend not to sell your old CPAP machines if they still work, keep at least one old working machine as a backup in case your main machine breaks down. You can get a brand new machine every 5 years with most insurance plans (and either a new or loaner machine right away if your current machine breaks), so be sure to get a new one when insurance allows so you have a backup. Or buy a cheap used $100 machine on eBay or Craigslist to use as a backup (or a primary if you don't have insurance). Get a machine that is data capable so that you can look at charts of your data using the free Oscar software. I look at my charts every 2-3 weeks to ensure my AHI number is OK and to see if my mask is leaking too much, etc..
Thank you for your feedback
What type of face mask do you have?
i did the at home study n i was positive for sleep apnea. got a machine and slept like a baby the first time i used it. so it depends on the person. i know i cant sleep w/o it now, kinda wished i got tested many years ago. sleep is wonderful now.
So lucky!!
Exactly the same for me ... from the forts night ! Sleep for 8 hours or more
@@edcastilloromo waking up refreshed with energy?
@@alaefarmestatesllc you bet
I have been choking and gasping for air in my sleep for 3 years (this started while I was pregnant with my son) it is the scariest thing to wake up grasping my throat and trying to get a breath in. I thought it was due to being exposed to a massive amount of black mold and wrote it off because the doctors weren't concerned It is the worst feeling, I sit there for a while after scared to go back to sleep. 6 years ago when i was pregnant with my daughter my blood pressure went up and they tried to control it she was born 3 months early due to it not responding to the blood pressure pills either way they probably couldn't have gave me a dose that would have controlled it. My son was born 2 months early. Now you can kind of see I was seeing a doctor regularly and complaining regularly about the issues I was having and they could see the blood pressure being high never once did they ever bring up anything about sleep apnea even when I was complaining of waking up choking in the middle of the night. Now fast forward 6 years and I'm sitting here on the maximum dose of two different blood pressure medications finally was referred to a Cardiologist had a heart Echo done and found out that my heart muscle has thickened. My pulse won't go down below 113 even at rest when I'm sitting. They've seen my blood pressure is high is 268 / 168 and finally I started reading up and looking into things on the internet. I told cardiologist I think it is sleep apnea I think that that's what's causing this so finally 6 years later and I feel exhausted every day I don't have patience anymore which is hard cuz I have a 6 year old and a 3 year old. I demanded a sleep study I told them that this is what it is and I can't keep on going through this. My sleep study is in 2 days and I can't wait. Because once you wake up at night and you're choking and you know that there's something wrong and you want it fixed once you find out that there's possibly something that is causing all of it. You have a little bit of Hope rather than just thinking that you were born with every problem in the book. And being irritable and Honore all the time yeah I understand that one too.
Yep that was my experience. I hope you are better now.
Update?
Sara Perry, I'm going through the start of this w yhe heart.. I have HCM RASopathy. Checking for another defect through dna testing also. Mine has no surgery for it. BP is high too & having difficulties finding a med and dose that works properly. The new BP standard for this type is 120/70. Just did a home test for apnea, waiting for the results. How have you come out on the machine & w the heart issue a year later? It'd be interesting to know. I do hope you are doing well.
Resumed has changed my life already. I’ve had this device for 4 nights…….
(Disclaimer: I'm not an M.D. just an apnea patient) Initially you do need a sleep study which is evaluated by a sleep doctor (usually a neurologist or pulmonologist MD who is also board certified in sleep medicine). But thereafter, if you don't have a complicated type of apnea (e.g. no central apneas) or major underlying health problems, and if you get a 'data capable' 'Auto' CPAP machine, you can use the free Oscar PC software to look at charts of your CPAP machine's data. If you read about how to look at the Oscar charts and take advice from experts on apnea forums, you can adjust your own machine settings and pressure. Assuming you are have only typical obstructive apnea, you don't need to keep running over and over to a sleep lab to adjust your pressure or each time you need to try find the new pressure when you get a new style of mask. Your pressure settings will change as you age or gain/lose weight, if you change sleep positions (you will have much more apnea if you sleep on your back), or if you change mask styles. You should be looking at your data often and keep your AHI under 5, ideally around .5 to 2.
I just couldn't fall asleep having the mask on and pretty much gave up on it, a friend said to make the water as icy cold as you could before putting it on and I now put ice cubes in the water. it was a game changer for me, I now look forward to bedtime and I'm usually out within a couple of minutes, I just love that cool fresh breeze coming through. my next challenge is how do i keep it on when woken in the middle of the morning, I don't feel like getting out of bed to get more ice so i usually rip it off. TBC
Cinematic Adventures I put ice in an insulated coffee mug with a lid to refresh the humidifier.
Yes, an insulated thermos mug. I have a Camelbak insulated travel mug, it keeps ice for days. But wanting it cold sounds weird because I like warmth and turn up the heat on my heated hose. Maybe I'll try turning off my machine's hose heater and try ice on a hot night just out of curiosity.
thanks for posting this. this has been my spot on experience. i've been suffering the way you did. my number is 89 and i'm miserable and hoping I find a better solution than my mouth mask and cpap, or better adjust it. the nurse at my doctor just keeps telling me, it takes a bit to get used to for some. NO SHIT LADY!!
same but i find the nose mask is the best for me so I will try it again my number was 65 times an hour
99o
Great interview! Very helpful! I am on my third day with my new CPAP, hoping I get more used to it. I am sleeping about 5-6 hours on it, i was wondering if that was a normal amount starting out, and you answered my question! Thank you!
I feel so much better since I stopped eating carbs. I think I will soon stop needing a Cpap!
I think the cpap machine is a god sent
Wow love this video. This guy went through everything that I did exactly he explained it so well and I totally agree with him. The doctors do not help and you have to sort it out by yourself on a trial and error method. All the best mate I hope you feel better. Cheers, Jeff Valdemar
Omg! Thank you!💜 the 1st one I was given I just couldn't cope with. Then my doctor split with no referal to anyone else, in fact they told me there wasnt anyone else locally, 100+ miles around. Which i discovered recently was false. I just gave up, it is a challenge when you have a competent doctor. I called a new doctor today 5 years later because I watched you.
APap machines (Automatic pressure adjusting machines) are now the norm and have practically removed sleep testing centers out of the equation when it comes to adjustments. Even if you only use a straight set Cpap machine, you can purchase a Auto machine and if you know your pressure, you can set the auto machine yourself. Quite a few sleep centers bucked the Auto machines because they couldn't see the patient as much and bill them or their insurance for the visit.
Masks these days are cheaper than ever considering the online outlets selling them are trying to stay competitive and most offer free 30 day trials of their masks, so you can return them for another mask or even another size with no charge, except for return shipping.
I'm a VERY experienced Cpap/Apap wearer and my advice is to avoid your local DME after the purchase of your initial machine, usually by your insurance after a trial. I can run circles around CPAP "experts" in my local DME office. Maintain a good relationship with them and keep getting your basic supplies provided to you by your insurance...(tubing, filters,etc) but shop online for your masks.
What does the sentence with DME mean? Thanks.
@@JMaurissen DME is an acronym for Durable Medical Equipment. He's referring to a local company that sells Durable Medical Equipment having limited knowledge compared to the information/products available online.
Is that the same as bipap I have a bipap it only blows when I breathe in
How do I check the machine to find my ahi? Its only my first week, mask nasal pillow seems comfy but wake up after 4-5 hours, feeling like it's not much airflow, take it off. Still feel horrible waking up, exhausted, in pain. Fibromyalgia, feel like I'm dying. Only 58.
@@jackiesicilian5720are you In contact with your sleep lab?
Oh my gosh!! I loved this presentation!! I just had my sleep study at the hospital because I became a heart patient in Feb of this year. The bed was awful! I felt like Darth Vadar too!! I was more exhausted at 5a when I was sent home then when I went to sleep the night before. I'm so darn excited to start with my CPAP ... I am getting the nasal mask. I am so tired of being tired and taking 2 naps a day.Thank you thank you. I so related to everything you talked about!! ❤❤❤ 3:35
Just got my Cpap and love it what a difference.
There's also an interesting book I read it was written by a sleep apnea patient & his doctor . It's called Phantom of The Night . I have severe obstructive sleep apnea . It caused oxygen deprivation in my sleep which caused damage to the cognitive function of my brain before I was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea . In February ' 98 I had surgery called Uvulapalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP for short. Prior to the surgery I was on a Bipap machine for sleep & for naps w/2 lpm of oxgygen bled in & on continuos oxygen at home & if I went out I had to bring my portable oxygen w/me .The surgery got me off of the continuous oxygen
Bob shaw4063 how did you help you're self with doctors help can i get it changed to use the pressure
That suits me ?
I am only 4'11" tall and 100 lbs, and I have sleep apnea. The first machine I had I had no way of adjusting any settings myself. But my new machine I can adjust so many things and the pressures are automatic. I also have the option of smart start so it starts up as soon as I have my mask on. Love this new machine. Fortunately my insurance paid for the whole works... the machine, mask et al. I purchased the So Clean machine on my own, that way I am able to keep my equipment sterilized. I have never seen a apnea machine under $1000.00, my whole unit cost $2,350.00 all covered by insurance. I have the ResMed Airsense 10. I am donating my old machine for someone who cannot afford to buy one. The part that was the hardest to adjust to is the mask. I have a small face but the kids size is too small, and the adult small is better but takes some adjustments. The trick is making sure the straps are set tight enough so the mask doesn't move if you sleep on your side. But now I have the headstraps set properly my mask doesn't move and the pillow I have works well, I use a "My Pillow" pillow and it is the only pillow I have bought that actually works well with the mask I have to use.
This all sounds great. Except there is no reason you need to sterilize your equipment. No need for a 'So Clean'. That is a myth/scam. Just use soap and water on mask and water chamber. There's no reason to clean the hose (unless it looks visibly dirty or it you have allergies and some allergen gets in there, it is not an 'infection risk'). I never wash my hose.
This is good information. In my personal case I found that I had apnea after falling asleep and having a bad traffic accident. At least nobody got injured. But when I talked to my doctor I had the sleep test at home an I came with 97 apnea events per hour. I have been using it for over two years and it had been a blessing. About the attachments for your machine don’t rely on the insurance prices out of pocket. In my case every time they gave filters for the machine I had to pay $10.00 copay for two filters. I actually found the filters on Amazon and for $20.00 I get 160 filters.
Wow that's rip off so sad when ill and struggling what a nasty thing t do ptheres profit n then there's rip off
My sleep study showed I stopped breathing 59 times per 60 minutes. Thank you for thistle video. My hubby refuses to get tested too and wear a mask.
when I have a cold, I get my sinus (nose) open before putting on the mask, I use nasal inhalers or pills to clear the airways, then the cPAP PRESSURE will usually keep one nostril open the rest of the night
I had a .$99 credit on Amazon so the book didn't cost me anything and I just read it in no time. I think it was encouraging in what I already know are the upsides to CPAP therapy. This little books' best target audience is snorers who think they should probably go to the doctor but won't. They should be terrified.
Great interview! Mr.Elmore should be doing standup comedy, he is
so entertaining!
Very informative and helpful. Thank you.
So ... after two years using mi cpap , never stopped using it ... life changer ... got used to it after the first day ...from gasping for air every minute to sleeping 8 hours not waking up ...
I’m delighted for you Eduardo. I noticed your earlier comment, and it’s great to know that you are being helped.
I just started my sleep apnea therapy, I used to use cannabis all the time and i had to quit using cannabis and CBD because it would relax me so much that my apnea/snoring was exponentially worse. Noting that this was my experience and it probably isn't the same for everyone. I will however use it conjunction with my CPAP machine and see how that is.
This is touching i just got diagnosed with sleep apena i stop breathing 66 tims an hour at night and getting my cpap machine on Friday and scared for it i am always sleeping in the day i fall asleep alot
Thxs for this informative video. I'm going through this now. Waiting on my machine. I stopped breathing 61 times in an hour, can't wait to get a good sleep!!!
Glenn Ross -I vaguely recall being told I had a number (59)similar to yours.. do you recall your “sleep number”? Thx
If u mean machine setting, my machines set at 12 for air pressure.
Not sure what u mean by sleep number?
I just got my APAP machine last machine and this guy, Phil, is spot on what to expect. I had a sleep study recommended by my doctor. It take weeks and months from the initial visit with the sleep doctor to getting setup with a machine and getting adjusted with the right mask.
The other thing (besides a CPAP machine) that gave me new life was getting my deviated septum fixed so I could actually uptake/intake oxytocin (which is what the Requirement is for vasodilation in the entire body.)
I rented a machine for 6 months but never took it out the box. That was the third box I rented. The first 2 I used but never persevered. After reading this book I'm determined to stick with it.
My body is struggling and I need to use the machine as I'm knackered. I have severe sleep apnea and I know the affect it is having on my body which is basically killing me slowly. No more, time to change 🙏
You can do it!
Very informative video. I'm a new user, and a lot of the stuff that was talked about I'm experiencing myself right now. It's amazing that nobody
really gives you any idea what you should out for or how do you clean everything. You have to do your own research I guess. All in all a very helpful video.
Phil is really a GREAT guy for you to have to explain everything in plain language.
Read cpaptalk.com for advice. The experts there say there is no reason you need to sterilize your equipment. No need for a 'So Clean'. That is a myth/scam. Just use soap and water on mask and water chamber. There's no reason to clean the hose (unless it looks visibly dirty or it you have allergies and some allergen gets in there, it is not an 'infection risk'). I never wash my hose.
This is Phil Elmore's legacy.
The reason I pull mine off is if my nose gets congested.. saline and anti histamines are very helpful. If I can’t breathe through my nose, I pull that thing off during the night.
Get a full face mask so if you end up having your sinuses get stuffy your mouth will open and you'll continue to get CPAP treatment for the remainder of the night instead of pulling it off your face.
I have my CPAP (actually a BiPap) machine for over 7 years and I am now eligible by Medicare rules for a new machine, but my insurance company made me to go for another sleep study, which resulted in that I should be ok now with a standard CPAP . Well, its on order now and we'll see how it works out. But I must say, it took me last time almost a year to get used to use the machine every night, due to its noise and the tubing and air leakage from the mask (using a full-faced mask as I'm a mouth-breather). Now I cant get to sleep without using the machine.
But I also must say, it has not helped me much with my sleepiness during the day, although it has not affected me while driving, I can fall asleep anyplace I go or just watching TV without taking my Nuvigil to stay awake. But what is worse, I cant understand that these DME suppliers/manufacturers have not come up yet with a comfortable mask design that does not leak or fits properly; I tried out about 10 different mouth- or full-faced masks by replacing the face cushion regularly, which is a continuous expense.
I used a CPAP machine for about 6 months, slept better, etc BUT I then got eustachian tube disfunction and lost some of my hearing in both ears!!! Not nice. I was not warned that this could happen. I am still furious about it. My hearing is very important to me…you don't even know how much you value it until it is impaired!!
Sara Roseman I'm on this hearing perfect till 6 m9nths woukd u Facebook me I'm confused hiw this cpap causes hearing loss gidget kunkel leach I'm in idaho
Simular has happened to me Glenn. Only my issue is going on six months. I was diagnosed with Shingles too both of my ear tubes. I was told I am looking at possibly a year and a half to clearing up. I have tried to research but, it’s not really wise in many ways. Becoming obsessed creates even more stress for me. Which BTW, is the why and how shingles can break out at anytime day or night. There is no cure for shingles. I only manage it.
This happened to me I have major headaches and problems
My friend thought I was Narcoleptic as well as he self-diagnosed himself as that temporarily while in school and exhausted. I don't believe he was and even though I have the symptoms I know I don't have all the typical symptoms because my narcoleptic symptoms are the result of exhaustion from lack of sleep because I have bad sleep apnea (finally got diagnosed). Your video helped because I am just going through this now. I still don't have my CPAP yet. I just did the sleep study and 2 hours in they put the CPAP on me because they said I stop breathing too often. What I do worry about is I have had Pneumonia 7 times and I worry about not cleaning the CPAP well enough. I am immunosuppressed as well as I have no kidneys and am dependent on a dialysis machine to live as well. Ya, I am a mess for a middle ager.
this is a really wonderful video...thanks guys
There are self adjusting CPAP machines. Even if you have a prescription your needs may change over time. If I am congested I cannot use my CPAP. I’m considering getting a full face mask for when I am congested.
Thanks for sharing this video
Are ASV machines generally the best machine for central sleep apnea?
Well, I diagnosed myself with sleep apnea.It is easy enough, have an ipad by the bed record sound through the whole night and by reviewing the recording, I could hear myself chocking from my snoring and stopping breathing throughout the night. So, just to getting started with the treatment right away I ordered myself a resmed airsense 10 autoset machine directly from resmed. When the corona situation clears, I will have my doctor prescribe a sleep analyses so that I can have a proper follow up on this. I have however fooled around with the settings on the machine by myself and the sleep reports show less and less apnea events and I am starting to feel more rested after sleep. So, I still think one should see the doctor for this, but a lot can be done on your own..
I just did the same thing and ordered that unit as well! Just waiting to get it delivered. I have not been to a sleep clinic as well but can’t wait to finally get a good night sleep! The whole process of the clinic and talking to your doctor is a pain the ass and a very slow process!
Agree. Read cpaptalk.com forum for advice. Download the free Oscar software for PC/Mac and you can look at charts of your data which will give you an idea if your mask is leaking too much or if you might need a pressure change.
You ordered direct with no prescription?
@@alaefarmestatesllc yes, i ordered directly from resmed, with no prescription. You have to fill inn some data on when you were diagnosed and stuff like that, but I just made up something.
He’s a great story teller! Love it
My only complaint is he attaches purchasing a used machine to someone who hasn't gone in for the study. Up here in Maine, many machines are sold to others who've had the study, but can't afford the new machine! While I got mine years ago, my husband needs one now and we can't afford a new machine. Used, it is! Saved us a bunch of money, Amazon sales on masks, tubing and filters, we are good to go.
excellent orientation to either CPAP machine.
I got mine with a few hours on it i new i needed one , but never went to the doctor, i had a Resmed 9 auto set, it changed my life , and i justnow bought a Resmed 10 , with very low hrs on it, im still doing good , without ever going to a doctor
Very informative video. Thanks for posting it. I can relate to SO many things Phil is talking about. It helps to know that I am not alone thinking and feeling the way that I do about using a CPAP machine for the first time and the months that have followed.
i had the surgery had my uvula removed as well as some tissue removed from back of my throat and sections of my tounge shrunk.......most painful surgery ever ....boy dont wish that on anyone.
Certainly is painful and doesn’t work, I wouldn’t wish that op on anyone.
@@spin1knit1 have you tried to remove your tonsils
exactly my symptom description... had my test, now looking forward to my machine
Thanks gentlemen - very informative interview.
I got diagnosed through the VA and I had a much easier time than you did adjusting to the mask, of course, I was a commercial diver so the mask was no big deal. I was rated at 72 so it was really bad. After being on the CPAP it dropped to 2. Thanks for sharing this info.
I got diagnosed at the VA also can't use CPAP due to deviated septum. My dental device just arrived.
When you can only see a doctor for 10 minutes every few months, thank god for "Doctor Google" and RUclips! It literally took me years (and realizing the deaths of two friends were caused by untreated apnea) just to get a doctor to pay attention to me. Then there was insurance that insisted I be overweight to qualify. Anyway, how long does it take to stop hating everybody? !! lol.
If you're using a autoset machine you don't need to use preset pressures, in fact the autoset machines bypass any preset pressures that might be in the machine.
Except that you do need to know what your minimum pressure should be, you should set that. The minimum needs to be one that is comfortable and that eliminates enough of your apnea incidents. On some machines the default minimum pressure is way too low for some people (e.g. 4cm). All 'Auto' machines have 'min' and 'max' settings which you can change yourself if you know how to get into 'provider' mode, also you can choose to instead set to one constant pressure 'CPAP mode'.
You can get a low cost machine on Craigslist.
yep & it includes all the germs the previous owner breathed into it
@@mungox1 do you breath in the bus or on an airplane? You just breathed the germs of others....get over it lol
Ameal Net what would it be set at?? Not good idea
RUclips has videos how to access the CPAP machines to set them at your prescribed setting.
If you don't have a lot of income this is a life saver 🙏
I get congested easily, so using a CPAP was extremely difficult. Forcing air through constricted nostrils is just too counter-productive. What I need to do is see an ear, nose and throat specialist and address this congestion issue. That and lose a shit-ton of weight, and I hope by the grace of God that'll get rid of my sleep apnea. I don't want to be strapped to a machine for the rest of my natural life.
I JUST STARTED USING MINE AND 3 DAYS IN I GOT A SINUS INFECTION AND ABOUT TO START USING IT AGAIN AFTER 3 DAYS OFF. THIS VIDEO HAS REALLY HEALPED ME UNDERSTAND AND I JUST BOUGHT HIS BOOK
my dad snored like a freight train for decades, died after suffering a trip fall at age 92. never sick
Awesome interview !! I too, Had a problem with getting used to the full mask !! So I went to just the nasal mask !! What a difference !! And a couple of Tweaks of air flow.
Hey, if you don’t mind me asking, what happens when you have a stuffed up nose at bedtime, how do you breath with your machine with that nasal mask?
@@rparcz I only have had to use Afrin once ...in two years ... normally the air flow will reach your throat even with stuffy nose
Thank you for this informative video. I just started on CPAP. Used it twice. I have a nasal pillow. The pressure is too high I think. I’m not liking it at all. I’m going to try the full face mask. My sinuses are very sore. I’m finding it very hard to adjust.
My sleep study was in 2006. My Dr. gave an Rx good for only 1 year. To get a new Rx I had to see his CNP and she would berate me for not coming in each year. I should not have to $$ for a new Rx each year to buy supplies.or pay for another sleep study to buy a new machine.
For $99 I got a lifetime (99 years) online Rx from a MD. I used Health Sqyre, but Easy Breathe is another company offering online Rx.
My research led me to choose the AirSense 10 Auto. Its a great machine. I paid under $600 online without insurance which was about what I would have paid using insurance and an in network DME.
I still use the Opti-Life nasal pillows & headgear but they are discontinued and hard to find. The Nuance straps are garbage and get very sticky after a couple of months. My AHI is always less than 2. Central AI is 0.1
I've tried nasal and full face masks but I can't stand them. Do your own research - most DME providers don't have a lot of product knowledge and they push the products that make them the most $$, not the products that would be best for you.
Learn how to access the clinican's menu and tweak the settings to suit you. That is not illegal. I recommend a humidifer and heated tubing to prevent "rainout" - water condensing in the tube. I also buy the better quality humidifier tank that works with tap water. I don't use distilled water.
I can’t use the machine tried to use it for 3 months could not tolerate it sleep hardly at all felt worse than before using machine
I've been on CPAPfor over 20 years. It even triggers my sleep. I put it on and I instantly fall asleep. I have many friends who have started sine then and they do not stay with it. The biggest complaint is that the ramping up phase makes them feel suffocated. I tell them to turn it on, go brush their teeth and such and by that time, it will have ramped up. this simple thing is like a shocking surprise to them DUH!My MD said to use it every time I am in a reclining position ( like watching TVor reading) I was in the hospital one time and another MD told me I could not do that and that I was to wait till I was falling asleep to put it on. Now think about that, that is stupid.
On most machines, you can easily turn off the ramp feature. It is optional. It is too bad that no one tells new users that, I hope that tip is in this guys "Things your doctor won't tell you" book. Ask your DME to help you turn it off. (Most machines seem to have settings locked but you just have to know the trick to unlock, usually holding two buttons down at once.) Many users turn off the ramp feature. I hated the ramp and so turned it off when I was on a lower pressure, but now that I've increased my pressure, the ramp is great (i.e. because my final pressure is so high, the ramp starting pressure is easy to breath with).
Ramp is optional. I feel like I’m suffocating with it on
I’ve been on CPAP two weeks. I completely figured out how to use my machine without the need of these so-called prescriptions….they prescribe ridiculous air pressure that fills your stomach up with air and also puts pressure in your ears. Turn off the ramp, adjust the pressure for what works for you.
I also got absolutely different advice which was to wear the mask as much as you can even if you’re not sleeping to minimize the brain being traumatized by the fact that you’re wearing a mask while you sleep.
Im way pass the introduction process to sleep apnea etc.Im 4 years into it its a worldwide problem even downunder in Australia & NZ.We give thanks to our doctors, cardiologists & their referrals to respiratory clinics.I never got angry about my condition.As theres always someone who has gone there before you.Like most things i guess your never the first.Was amazed it affected women & men of all ages.My 4th year and im doing ok.There are some good tips in this post in some of the comments...which im gonna try.
Great video. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you. This video has been most helpful.
Clostridium Difficile is the most common cause of ulcers. Patients with ulcers are stressed due the nausea and pain from the ulcers.
i started CPAP in Sept 2020 and packed it up last night. the masks and head gear ( i tried 3 and various covers) broke out my face =rash, welts, pimples, itching itching itching. the inside of my nostrils are raw. i cannot deal with this
I finally got approved for a cpap last year my sleep study came back at 90 incedents per hour I was diagnosed over 20 yrs ago but never had health insurance to try and fix it but recently started me off with a full mask bipap that never fit correctly and leaked air into my eye and if I slept even slightly sideways it would lose seal very loudly... next I switched to a nasal mask which sealed much better but my pressure was set way too high and I would wake up in tremendous pain feeling like I was blown up like a balloon like in the cartoons when the charechter gets blown full of air and my stomach would hurt until I burped and farted for like 45 min every morning .... then they turned my pressure down from 22 to 19 which is much better but probably still a little too high I’ll b going to my next sleep study next month I also had an issue where I had to change the humidity and temp because it was literally spraying water in my face this I was able to do on the machine in the settings myself. Currently it seems to be helping quite a bit but cuddling with my fiancé is super difficult because it’s loud and will vent air right at her so now I sleep in the same bed but not holding her as I used to also on the top ridge of my nose is currently blistered from the rubbing of the nasal mask to the point that I have a scab across there and have for about a month now... I’m currently hoping to try and see if getting surgery and removing my tonsils and other options can be an option for me I’ve also recently seen dental sleep apnea devices that I’m interested in but wonder if they actually work
So as a former c-crap user and no it did not help me. My issue with was.. we can send someone into space to live on a space station for months but the best we can come up with to solve the breathing issue while sleeping is a hose with a mask blowing air in the face like a leaf blower. Cpap doesn't cure the problem it's a bandaid at best. Bless you that had success with c-crap. It's frustrating for sure. I had sinus surgery and that helped me out. Plus losing weight and changing my diet and i ended up giving away my cpap machine to someone who was in need but couldn't afford it.
" we can send someone into space to live on a space station for months but the best we can come up with to solve the breathing issue while sleeping is a hose with a mask blowing air". Spot on. They want to keep us sick so they can keep billing us.
Well said, Tom
The "c-crap" is not surprising to relieve sinus congestion because that is a tighter and smaller hole, usually due to allergies. The machine helps keep airway open around your throat area due to tongue and or fat forcing it to close. With sinuses, it is about not be able to breathe through your nose. Here it is about not being able to breathe at all. Air is unable to get to your lungs.
I never got tired but got alot complaints about my snoring been bad .Now with machine dont snore at all nose mask does the job for me .
My friend Chris thought I was a narcoleptic as well but that is different even though it SEEMS like the symptoms are the same. Just typing what I was 30 seconds ago I fell asleep at least 10 times while trying to type it. Had to go back and correct a LOT of spelling mistakes and gibberish lol.
In 1999 I was first tested...90 times an hour with 8 minutes deep sleep in 8 hrs. First couple years on cpap were new life...but, over time in can and has progressed. From a 12 setting it got wound up to 20 in a few years. Now on bipap at 21/17. Its a nightmare...the mask I finally found that has been great was discontinued. And after 5 years of using a med. size. I have found I should have had a med. wide that was never offered from my supply. All the Dr.s want to do is dictate compliance with no thought or effort of doing anything to make the problem better. No money in healing people...I would be scared but really too tired to care at this point. Dry outs, rain outs and a power outage that I almost didn't wake up out of. Most nights I have to keep my hand on the mask all night to keep a seal. Only thing I have noticed a slight difference was acupuncture...there is a key to the problem there I have not been able to follow up with.
Sounds like you need to visit a sleep lab again - a different one. You might also consider changing doctors.
@@buggsy5 Will have to be pro active...Drs offer no cure. They only dictate pressures and charge hundreds to look at card and machine. Wim Hof breathing technique...diet and exercise. Gut health...
Ask for help on cpaptalk.com. There might be people who would sell you gently used masks of the old discontinued kind you like. They will suggest a heated hose to prevent rainout or a hose sleeve. There's an inexpensive alarm device someone suggested that makes a lot of noise if a power outage occurs to wake you up. You need a new mask, there are many new types to try.
@@lrob12345 Thank you for the concerned reply. I have bought up several masks and refills...and another bipap. But have decided since Dr's are content to merely dictate pressure, and charge my insurance for doing basically nothing but a sight exam. I will have to be proactive to get pressure down myself. They have no intention of healing nor do they know how. I have started several of Dr. Gundrys formulas to heal gut and lose weight...and some very aggressive acupuncture from an old master I recently found. 30 pounds off in 2 months already and not hungry all the time. New types of masks are all snug fit and small...they do not allow enough moisture. The lady at cpap supply basically said I will never get enough moisture at my pressure...and that was dismal verdict to say the least. I was offered to have my trachea cut and avoid the problem 20 years ago...punching a hole in my throat for a breathing tube seemed like a bad idea. I think sitting with 40-50 needles in me yesterday is a far better option. Just getting pressure down should not be a problem...waiting and complying only leads to a shortened life with a long list of lurking health issues.
@@leeswindle7790 That's excellent progress on losing weight. Have you set your machine's humidifier to the max setting? I have a Dreamstation and its water chamber is a bit too small and runs out of water in the middle of the night so a Resmed or other brand might be better if you use the max humidity level. Also, a room humidifier might help. I suggest sleeping on your side and not on your back if you can do it, you might need less pressure. Also a soft cervical collar for sleeping, I use this: smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FVPB4PJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (soft blue Comfort model), but you'd have to experiment with the collar height, I use a 3 inch collar which might be too short for others. I'm about to try this new mask, and it has options of a large frame and a wide cushion size : www.thecpapshop.com/resmed-airfit-f30i-full-face-cpap-mask-with-headgear (although a large-wide isn't sold together so looks like you get stuck paying an extra $60 for that combination). Get a heated tube or tube sleeve to reduce or prevent rainouts and a power outage alarm: www.amazon.com/Reliance-Control-Corporation-MfrPartNo-THP207M/dp/B018A30T8Q/ref=sr_1_5 . I agree about not waiting for your docs to do something, but it is worth it to keep trying different masks, you cannot wait until you lose more weight, it is not guaranteed to reduce your pressure needs although it hopefully might. To save $ if insurance won't pay, you can look on eBay or Craigslist for used masks in your size and favorite model, or ask if anyone has a used one to sell on various apnea forums. If your DME doesn't have a certain size in stock, try to demand that they order it, or try to get your doctor to call the DME and tell them they need to get you that specific size.
What BRAND soap/cleaner do you use? I'm new to using a cpap machine and can't find a soap that doesn't have a strong smell to it. Thanks for the helpful video.
Thank you for all the help 😁
I was going down the rabbit hole, I was extremely sleepy. I am 57 years old and I felt like I was 80. My blood pressure was high. I was falling asleep all the time. I now have a CPAP, it is the best thing in my life. I feel like a new person. I have a ResMed made for women.
What makes the machine made for women different? I'm to get a new machine in Feb and have an app at the end of Jan.
I'm watching this video 6 years after it's release and so far everything mentioned still stands true even years later. In my opinion I believe there's a desperate need for something similar to CPAP councilors to educate patients and advise them of basic things to ease into CPAP life. We have smoking sensation councilors which do the same thing regarding nicotine addiction so why not sleep?