I can't use a C-pap machine. I sleep on my side. Does anyone else have this problem?
2006-10-09 13:57:42 · 4 answers · asked by redunicorn 7 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Respiratory Diseases
I have sleep apnea and am now using a C-pap machine. Are you not supposed to sleep on your side? I do and I don't have a problem. Does your "mask" cover your nose and mouth? Mine covers only my nose.
I'm thinking of going to see a Pulmonologist to try to get more information and be sure I'm using this thing right.
Sleep apnea can be very serious. Maybe there's a different kind of machine you can use?
2006-10-09 14:05:26 · answer #1 · answered by Juanitamarie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sleeping on your side may be difficult depending on the type of mask you have. Does your mask cover your nose? nose and mouth? is it a nasal pillow that rests underneath your nose with a nasal cannula? Where does the hose hook up and where do the straps attach? What about the head gear?
My point is...there many different types of masks and head gear for you to choose from. If you're having trouble sleeping, talk to your sleep study doctor, or the technician that fitted you for your mask. Sleep apnea is pretty serious business, no matter the severity of your situation. A CPAP machine is usually a 99% non-surgical cure for a condition that could cause you to die in your sleep. You should wear it -- no, you NEED to wear it -- so a comfortable fitting mask is of the utmost importance. Your doctor or technician will make it a priority to work with you to find the most comfortable mask to fit your needs.
For instance, I have a pretty severe form of combination sleep apnea, and I, too, require a CPAP machine. I have a nasal pillow cannula that rests under my nose, with a strap that tightens on the top and behind my head. What's great, however, is that the hose attaches to either side of the nasal pillow! I sleep on my left side, so I attach the hose to the right side of the "mask," turn over, and the hose goes up, over & behind my head...and I never feel it! It even works when I flip on my stomach.
Here's my point: call your doctor and let him/her know that you’re uncomfortable and need to explore other mask options. It won't be the first time someone has had the same problem, and they can probably provide you with several to try out.
Don't wait! This is serious business!
2006-10-10 11:23:31 · answer #2 · answered by southernserendipiti 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've used a c-pap machine for over 6 years and I sleep on my side. I haven't found it a problem. It just takes some getting used to. Don't give up. It just takes some patience.
Jim
Port Charlotte, FL
2006-10-09 21:07:01 · answer #3 · answered by Realtor Jim 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband just got his CPAP machine 2 weeks ago. he is feeling so much better now that he can sleep. His sleep study revelaed he would stop breathing on average 25 times and hour! he never made it past level 2.. and you need to get to levels 4 and 5 to actually get rest full sleep. If you have it, see a specialist.. get a CPAP machine, You will be happy you did. Oh yeah.. I sleep better now too.. cause hes not snoring and I'm not waking up at night telling him to roll over or litterally waking him up to tell him to BREATH! Good Luck
2006-10-09 21:04:18 · answer #4 · answered by grapelady911 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
gyeah i do but i use a c-pap machine. when I'm camping and cant use it i sleep with my head and back reclining. it helps the brain get enough air to maintain..chill
2006-10-09 21:03:07 · answer #5 · answered by the fats boys are back 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋