Cannot sleep with cpap machine?

Question

Just recently I have had to start sleeping with a cpap machine however I can't seem to fall asleep with it on my face it is only one that goes just around my nose but anyway I try to sleep with it I give it an honest try but it just keeps me awake iv'e even tried staying up to the point where im literally surprised I make it to my bed but the minute I put in on i'm no longer tired it feels likes its suffocating me but that could be because I have a slight cold and stuffy nose but to end the wall of text is there any tips anyone can give me to try to deal with this ? i would greatly appreciate it.

Answer 1

There's generally an adjustment period for any CPAP equipment use. Trust me, I went through it myself. The body has to adjust to the new pressure. Otherwise, your pressure might be wrong. Are you on a traditional CPAP Machine or the Auto machine? If you're on a CPAP, ask your doctor if your pressure is wrong because breathing with the CPAP mask should feel natural, not like somebody is suffocating you.

Answer 2

Yes, there's definitely an adjustment period and one of the best ways to get used to it is to acclimatise yourself to the mask by putting it on for short periods during the day. Another problem people come up against is that they're often given nasal masks, when in actual fact, if they're mouth breathers they need a full face mask. I would guess that whilst you've got this cold and stuffy nose you would actually benefit from a full face mask at the moment.



See if this video helps you too http://hope2sleepguide.co.uk/video/solutions-for-cpap-claustrophobia-suffocation-by-fullface-cpap



Also, look out for forums where there's lots of help from fellow CPAP users.



Good Luck!

Answer 3

Oh, man, Oh man, are you in a pickle. Since my Dad started using his CPAP, he's had more energy during the day now than he had 20 years ago. He doesn't get sick near as often, either, and his moods are much more elevated. He loves his machine. Mom says it's like sleeping next to Darth Vader, but it beats the snoring. I would give it another go with the machine. It can literally save your life. My grandma had sleep apnea, too, and I think it contributed to her heart problems and the fact that she practically slept away the last few years of her life. She had a CPAP--she called it her "sleep cap"--but she wouldn't wear it. If you absolutely can't, see your doctor, this is serious and may not be life threatening, but is definitely longevity threatening.