Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Restful sleep? Or not.

I had high hopes for my new CPAP machine. I plugged it in, put on the mask and away we went. Way too much air so I hit the "ramp" button which drops the air flow down to half and then slowly ramps it back up to your prescribed number in the next 30 minutes. By then I was used to the air flow so I didn't really struggle with that anymore.

But what I didn't like is all the stuff attached to my head. I know I'll get used to it but it felt uncomfortable last night. Plus I ended up with a red mark on my cheek which lasted half the day. I kept needing to yawn but that's near impossible with a hurricane blowing into your mouth. Then my nose kept itching and to scratch it I had to lift the mask off my face and that created another high wind to my neck area.

I did sleep in between changing positions. I even think I slept good when I was sleeping. So I do believe this will help, I just have to become accustomed to an octopus on my face blowing air into my nose and mouth.

6 comments:

Mim said...

someone I know is using the nasal canula option - says it is easier to get used to and doesn't leave the red marks. everyone also says that it takes awhile to get used to...but that you will...and you'll love it.

Lisa at Greenbow said...

I was afraid that you would say this happened. I hope you can get used to it. Nothing worse than not sleeping well.

Lynn Cohen said...

good grief. I have never read such a good description of this contraption. Monitor your progress with us. You write so well! This too could be a book!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL Good luck and good night!

Alicia said...

ahhh...too funny

SandyAlaska said...

Patty, Do you have a humidifier? It's really important to have one... Let me know if you want more info.

S dot

BT said...

Oh dear, as everyone says, I'm sure you will get used to it. Do let us know how you get on. It would drive me mad.