Ol'Line Rebel
01-14-2008, 01:16 PM
Just a note my husband is picking up a CPAP tomorrow for his apnea, which includes HORRIBLE SNORING (it's a real issue for me, who gets no continuous sleep since we married - and I'm due a baby by March!).
He's the kind that if he "doesn't like" something, he just drops it; it's kind of like he's spoiled. I'm so afraid he will "not like" the CPAP (yes, he's tested with it) and will just quit very soon, and then we're out of options.
Except me sleeping totally separately (which I often still need to wear ear plugs). I don't like that concept; not generally and not for our child.
Sorry, just sort of venting!
If anyone has advice on how to adjust to CPAPs, I'd appreciate it! Also, I hear about the noise it makes - but figure it can't be as bad as his horrid inconsistent loud snores of various kinds!
He's the kind that if he "doesn't like" something, he just drops it; it's kind of like he's spoiled. I'm so afraid he will "not like" the CPAP (yes, he's tested with it) and will just quit very soon, and then we're out of options.
Except me sleeping totally separately (which I often still need to wear ear plugs). I don't like that concept; not generally and not for our child.
Sorry, just sort of venting!
If anyone has advice on how to adjust to CPAPs, I'd appreciate it! Also, I hear about the noise it makes - but figure it can't be as bad as his horrid inconsistent loud snores of various kinds!
Sponsor
sztoomuch
01-14-2008, 03:58 PM
When my dad was first diagnosed with apnea, he wouldn't believe it. He was sure that the doctor was pulling his leg and just wanted to make more money.
After going through a lot of cajoling and many attempts at reasoning, the doctor finally showed him the video of his sleep test. My dad saw himself sleep, heard himself snore, saw himself stop breathing.
That worked like a charm. My dad wouldn't be without his CPAP now.
It takes a while to adjust to the CPAP and to adjust the CPAP to you. I will be getting my first one this week...and my doctor told me that mine will easily fit in carry-on luggage. It is small enough and quiet enough that it can be used in an airplane. The new ones are not loud.
After going through a lot of cajoling and many attempts at reasoning, the doctor finally showed him the video of his sleep test. My dad saw himself sleep, heard himself snore, saw himself stop breathing.
That worked like a charm. My dad wouldn't be without his CPAP now.
It takes a while to adjust to the CPAP and to adjust the CPAP to you. I will be getting my first one this week...and my doctor told me that mine will easily fit in carry-on luggage. It is small enough and quiet enough that it can be used in an airplane. The new ones are not loud.
mkgbrook
01-14-2008, 08:49 PM
Also if he is stubborn and refuses to continue with treatment. Discuss the surgical options instead. A tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy as an adult is worse than an emergency C-section with an ineffective epidural. :) Then top it off with a side of UPPP. These are not pleasant.. but in the end it normally helps most snoring tonsil obstructed apneas.
It help drop me to mild from severe sleep apnea. My snoring went away as well. My ENT told me most snoring is a result of enlarged tonsils. :) Just a thought. I am hoping that he settles in with his CPAP. Also look into sleep apnea monitors for your crib. Sleep apnea tends to run in families and your child may have it. Mine did. He was stopping breathing over 30 times a minute. How scary is that? Much scarier than my own 60x. Why? It was my baby. Well at the age of 4 he was officially diagnosed and got his own CPAP. He is 5 and 2 months now. He sleeps 12 hours a day on his CPAP. You might let your husband know there is a five year old out there that uses his CPAP with out fail. Only the rotavirus caused him to spend a night or two with out it.
MG
It help drop me to mild from severe sleep apnea. My snoring went away as well. My ENT told me most snoring is a result of enlarged tonsils. :) Just a thought. I am hoping that he settles in with his CPAP. Also look into sleep apnea monitors for your crib. Sleep apnea tends to run in families and your child may have it. Mine did. He was stopping breathing over 30 times a minute. How scary is that? Much scarier than my own 60x. Why? It was my baby. Well at the age of 4 he was officially diagnosed and got his own CPAP. He is 5 and 2 months now. He sleeps 12 hours a day on his CPAP. You might let your husband know there is a five year old out there that uses his CPAP with out fail. Only the rotavirus caused him to spend a night or two with out it.
MG
nora01
01-15-2008, 01:43 PM
My suggestion would be to tell him the damage done to his heart for all of the times he stops breathing during his sleep. That ususally works.;)
My suggestion for you to get used to the noise of the CPAP is a small table fan. I use this so the noise from my husband's cpap does not bother me too much. Sometimes if the mask move / comes off when he's sleeping becuase moves around a lot.
My suggestion for you to get used to the noise of the CPAP is a small table fan. I use this so the noise from my husband's cpap does not bother me too much. Sometimes if the mask move / comes off when he's sleeping becuase moves around a lot.
Ol'Line Rebel
01-15-2008, 02:53 PM
News my husband sent me:
His CPAP has a humidifier; is this something beyond a normal CPAP?
He says the machine is quiet; I'm not too worried about it because it seems they are rather subdued. And it's white noise (I guess).
He also finally got some data. We were never told any before. He said he's mild at about 7 episodes per hour. Sounds weeny compared to some here. But believe me, he is a horrid snorer, nonetheless!
(He also has some other possible signals - highish blood pressure avg. 140, overweight pushing 300 now, gets sleepy easily - yawns alot even by late afternoons, etc.)
His CPAP has a humidifier; is this something beyond a normal CPAP?
He says the machine is quiet; I'm not too worried about it because it seems they are rather subdued. And it's white noise (I guess).
He also finally got some data. We were never told any before. He said he's mild at about 7 episodes per hour. Sounds weeny compared to some here. But believe me, he is a horrid snorer, nonetheless!
(He also has some other possible signals - highish blood pressure avg. 140, overweight pushing 300 now, gets sleepy easily - yawns alot even by late afternoons, etc.)
bethsheba
01-15-2008, 03:19 PM
...After going through a lot of cajoling and many attempts at reasoning, the doctor finally showed him the video of his sleep test. My dad saw himself sleep, heard himself snore, saw himself stop breathing.
That worked like a charm. My dad wouldn't be without his CPAP now.
Smart doctor, :D!
...It takes a while to adjust to the CPAP and to adjust the CPAP to you. I will be getting my first one this week...and my doctor told me that mine will easily fit in carry-on luggage. It is small enough and quiet enough that it can be used in an airplane. The new ones are not loud.
Yes, I've flown with mine as carry on baggage. Although I've never had any problems with security clearances (many people travel with them so security people know what to do), I do carry a letter from my doctor in my cpap case so that I have written documentation that the machine is a medical necessity.
Bethsheba
That worked like a charm. My dad wouldn't be without his CPAP now.
Smart doctor, :D!
...It takes a while to adjust to the CPAP and to adjust the CPAP to you. I will be getting my first one this week...and my doctor told me that mine will easily fit in carry-on luggage. It is small enough and quiet enough that it can be used in an airplane. The new ones are not loud.
Yes, I've flown with mine as carry on baggage. Although I've never had any problems with security clearances (many people travel with them so security people know what to do), I do carry a letter from my doctor in my cpap case so that I have written documentation that the machine is a medical necessity.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
01-15-2008, 03:27 PM
...My ENT told me most snoring is a result of enlarged tonsils. :) Now that is interesting, MG!
...Also look into sleep apnea monitors for your crib. Sleep apnea tends to run in families and your child may have it.
Good point...MG, just out of curiosity, is it possible for your child to outgrow his apnea? Or is it something that he will stay with him? Children change so much with age and there are so many different causes for apnea...I would just be curious to know if apnea is something you could grow out of...
...You might let your husband know there is a five year old out there that uses his CPAP with out fail. ...
:D Ah, what we can learn from children...
Bethsheba
...Also look into sleep apnea monitors for your crib. Sleep apnea tends to run in families and your child may have it.
Good point...MG, just out of curiosity, is it possible for your child to outgrow his apnea? Or is it something that he will stay with him? Children change so much with age and there are so many different causes for apnea...I would just be curious to know if apnea is something you could grow out of...
...You might let your husband know there is a five year old out there that uses his CPAP with out fail. ...
:D Ah, what we can learn from children...
Bethsheba
slipperyslope
01-15-2008, 07:13 PM
The new machines are NOT noisy at all, so that won' be a problem, you will hear a slight hum but its nothing compared to a person snoring.
It took me 3 mask's to get one that fit decent enough, so plan on him having to try several mask's to find the right fit, I got mine online at a great place, make sure he buys insurance so you can return it, its SO worth it otherwise its non returnable. ( if you buy online) It takes time to get used to the mask, so please make sure he sticks with it, and does not give up after a few days. it took me about a week to get used to it. Now I am 2 months into my mask and I am liking it okay, but I am getting pressure sores on my face and an irritation from it, its always something and nothing is perfect but he will not snore at all with his mask so make sure he sticks with it!!
SS
P.S I am sleeping SO much better now and so will he.
It took me 3 mask's to get one that fit decent enough, so plan on him having to try several mask's to find the right fit, I got mine online at a great place, make sure he buys insurance so you can return it, its SO worth it otherwise its non returnable. ( if you buy online) It takes time to get used to the mask, so please make sure he sticks with it, and does not give up after a few days. it took me about a week to get used to it. Now I am 2 months into my mask and I am liking it okay, but I am getting pressure sores on my face and an irritation from it, its always something and nothing is perfect but he will not snore at all with his mask so make sure he sticks with it!!
SS
P.S I am sleeping SO much better now and so will he.
mkgbrook
01-15-2008, 07:23 PM
Now that is interesting, MG!
Yeah I thought so. My mom, my dad, my son, and I have minimal snoring since our T&A's.. but we still have apnea. :)
Good point...MG, just out of curiosity, is it possible for your child to outgrow his apnea? Or is it something that he will stay with him? Children change so much with age and there are so many different causes for apnea...I would just be curious to know if apnea is something you could grow out of...
Some do.. most of these will be cured of their apnea by a simple T&A. My son has had all the surgeries and still has severe sleep apnea. Every time he grows and gains weight his CPAP demands go up. He started needing 5.5.. now he is at 7.6 and due another titration. The MD thinks my son will need it for life. He has a restricted airway and elongated pallet like me. Well at least he has a CPAP and tolerates it. :D
:D Ah, what we can learn from children...
Oh tell me about it. I had an ultrasound of my thyroid done last week, and he over heard me making arrangements with my husband for school end pick up. He was serious and asked me why I was getting an ultrasound. I told him the MD needed to look in my throat. He asked if I was getting it done in the hospital. I told him, yes. :D He said, "GOOD, the doctor needs to take the baby out of my throat and put it in my tummy where it belongs!" I lost it. Laughed really hard and had to tell him I was not pregnant. His aunt is and he saw the ultrasound over Christmas.. so he made the connection. Goosh! He comes up with some of the best lines. :)
MG
PS
The note from the MD is a good idea.. I need one for all our bags. We hauled three to Disney World and back on an air plane. Other than bogging down security as they openned all the CPAP asn swabbed them and such.. there was no delay.
Yeah I thought so. My mom, my dad, my son, and I have minimal snoring since our T&A's.. but we still have apnea. :)
Good point...MG, just out of curiosity, is it possible for your child to outgrow his apnea? Or is it something that he will stay with him? Children change so much with age and there are so many different causes for apnea...I would just be curious to know if apnea is something you could grow out of...
Some do.. most of these will be cured of their apnea by a simple T&A. My son has had all the surgeries and still has severe sleep apnea. Every time he grows and gains weight his CPAP demands go up. He started needing 5.5.. now he is at 7.6 and due another titration. The MD thinks my son will need it for life. He has a restricted airway and elongated pallet like me. Well at least he has a CPAP and tolerates it. :D
:D Ah, what we can learn from children...
Oh tell me about it. I had an ultrasound of my thyroid done last week, and he over heard me making arrangements with my husband for school end pick up. He was serious and asked me why I was getting an ultrasound. I told him the MD needed to look in my throat. He asked if I was getting it done in the hospital. I told him, yes. :D He said, "GOOD, the doctor needs to take the baby out of my throat and put it in my tummy where it belongs!" I lost it. Laughed really hard and had to tell him I was not pregnant. His aunt is and he saw the ultrasound over Christmas.. so he made the connection. Goosh! He comes up with some of the best lines. :)
MG
PS
The note from the MD is a good idea.. I need one for all our bags. We hauled three to Disney World and back on an air plane. Other than bogging down security as they openned all the CPAP asn swabbed them and such.. there was no delay.
slipperyslope
01-15-2008, 07:37 PM
I bought the humidifer with my machine and don't use it. I found out it was causing more problems than good, it made me cough, sneeze, and my nose was filled with mucious. I also like the feel of cool air going through vs hot air, so I just don't need it anymore. It also would creat condensation and my mask would drip water onto my face that would keep waking me up so I bagged it! I tried it for a month, at different levles so see if I was using to much or not enough, and every time I used it I was blowing my nose all day long and had a dreadful cough.
SS
SS
Msminnamouse
01-15-2008, 07:50 PM
I had a sleep aphnea machine. He probably won't like it. It's uncomfortable. I kept ending up taking it off some time over the night even though I was out like a light on Ambien. If I didn't use Ambien, there was no way I could ever have fallen asleep with it on.
Also, even though mine had a humidifier, the back of my nose and throat would get dry and painful.
The machine isn't that loud. It sounds kind of like white noise.
Good luck! Maybe if it does fall through, he can try those nose strips. They stick across the bridge of your nose and they're stiff and slightly widen the nassal passages because of this.
Also, even though mine had a humidifier, the back of my nose and throat would get dry and painful.
The machine isn't that loud. It sounds kind of like white noise.
Good luck! Maybe if it does fall through, he can try those nose strips. They stick across the bridge of your nose and they're stiff and slightly widen the nassal passages because of this.
mkgbrook
01-15-2008, 08:06 PM
If dry throat and nasal membranes are an issue you should look into Ponaris nasal oil and Pretz PH balanced Nasal spray. These were recommended by my ENT and have been tremendous for dryness and membrane irritation. These often need to be ordered by your pharmacy.. but they are OTC and need no script.
Just thought I would share that one.
MG
Just thought I would share that one.
MG
Ol'Line Rebel
01-15-2008, 08:47 PM
Trust me, we've been through all the little OTC things. They don't work - certainly not well enough to resolve this problem even 50% of the time!
And the last attempt - nose clips - was the example of how DH declares he doesn't like and just stops using it. In 2 days he complained and dropped, despite my buying a 30-pack just to try anything. (I myself tried them, and I didn't see much wrong with it.)
And the last attempt - nose clips - was the example of how DH declares he doesn't like and just stops using it. In 2 days he complained and dropped, despite my buying a 30-pack just to try anything. (I myself tried them, and I didn't see much wrong with it.)
bethsheba
01-15-2008, 08:59 PM
MG,
Thanks for answering my questions about outgrowing the cpap...I was just curious but I do know that for whatever the reason some things changes with time.
Laughed about your little guy's comments...they're always thinking aren't they?
Oh, I haven't flown recently but my cpap has never been swabbed, hmmm.
Bethsheba
Thanks for answering my questions about outgrowing the cpap...I was just curious but I do know that for whatever the reason some things changes with time.
Laughed about your little guy's comments...they're always thinking aren't they?
Oh, I haven't flown recently but my cpap has never been swabbed, hmmm.
Bethsheba
bethsheba
01-15-2008, 09:06 PM
... Now I am 2 months into my mask and I am liking it okay, but I am getting pressure sores on my face and an irritation from it, ...P.S I am sleeping SO much better now and so will he.
I'm so glad you are sleeping better now. Yes, it does take awhile to adjust and to fine tune the fit. The first time I slept with my mask, I was wearing it upside down! I, too, had problems with pressure sores and skin irriatation...but a diffent mask solved those problems for me. If you're still getting pressure sores, you may have the straps too tight or you may need to try a 4th mask.
I originally got fitted at a home health supplier, but once I found the right mask I ordered elsewhere ($175 at the home health suppler but $59.99 elsewhere---one reason alone why our health system needs to be revised:mad:).
Bethsheba
I'm so glad you are sleeping better now. Yes, it does take awhile to adjust and to fine tune the fit. The first time I slept with my mask, I was wearing it upside down! I, too, had problems with pressure sores and skin irriatation...but a diffent mask solved those problems for me. If you're still getting pressure sores, you may have the straps too tight or you may need to try a 4th mask.
I originally got fitted at a home health supplier, but once I found the right mask I ordered elsewhere ($175 at the home health suppler but $59.99 elsewhere---one reason alone why our health system needs to be revised:mad:).
Bethsheba
bethsheba
01-15-2008, 09:10 PM
...Also, even though mine had a humidifier, the back of my nose and throat would get dry and painful.
Did you have a bipass or a heated humidifier? Under certain conditions it may be better to use a heated humidifer. Not all humdifiers are created equal...;).
Good luck! Maybe if it does fall through, he can try those nose strips. They stick across the bridge of your nose and they're stiff and slightly widen the nassal passages because of this.
Usually there's alot more involved than nasal passages when it comes to obstructive sleep apnea. For that reason, it is unlikely the strips would work.
Bethsheba
Did you have a bipass or a heated humidifier? Under certain conditions it may be better to use a heated humidifer. Not all humdifiers are created equal...;).
Good luck! Maybe if it does fall through, he can try those nose strips. They stick across the bridge of your nose and they're stiff and slightly widen the nassal passages because of this.
Usually there's alot more involved than nasal passages when it comes to obstructive sleep apnea. For that reason, it is unlikely the strips would work.
Bethsheba
Ol'Line Rebel
01-16-2008, 10:12 AM
Well, DH got the CPAP and last night he wore it.
He seemed to be on his back (obviously) and moved to his right side, back & forth.
He DID snore (yikes), but it didn't seem to get really obnoxious and variant; more rhythmic and on the lower side - however, as a precaution, I am still wearing ear plugs. So it was louder than it seemed to me at the time.
The biggest problem with the snoring, I'd say, was that while rhythmic, it seemed again to pop out of nowhere - which at reasonable volume is something that would wake everyone else up. You know, that sudden noise.
Anyway, with my plugs, I managed to rather quickly fall back to sleep each time. I'm not even sure if DH's snoring woke me, or I'm just used to awaking, or what.
He seemed to be on his back (obviously) and moved to his right side, back & forth.
He DID snore (yikes), but it didn't seem to get really obnoxious and variant; more rhythmic and on the lower side - however, as a precaution, I am still wearing ear plugs. So it was louder than it seemed to me at the time.
The biggest problem with the snoring, I'd say, was that while rhythmic, it seemed again to pop out of nowhere - which at reasonable volume is something that would wake everyone else up. You know, that sudden noise.
Anyway, with my plugs, I managed to rather quickly fall back to sleep each time. I'm not even sure if DH's snoring woke me, or I'm just used to awaking, or what.
bethsheba
01-16-2008, 04:25 PM
Rebel,
Thanks for getting back to us...did enjoy your post and your humor, grin!
Does your husband use a nose mask? Or a full face mask? If he is using a nose mask, and he is still snoring, he will need to learn to breath through his nose (it took me alittle more than 2 weeks to do this but I'm told it takes some people longer). I'm thinking that proper use of the cpap should eliminate the snoring, but I could be wrong... Mg may have more to offer here.
Bethsheba
Thanks for getting back to us...did enjoy your post and your humor, grin!
Does your husband use a nose mask? Or a full face mask? If he is using a nose mask, and he is still snoring, he will need to learn to breath through his nose (it took me alittle more than 2 weeks to do this but I'm told it takes some people longer). I'm thinking that proper use of the cpap should eliminate the snoring, but I could be wrong... Mg may have more to offer here.
Bethsheba
Msminnamouse
01-16-2008, 05:46 PM
Well, the humidifier wasn't heated, so I'm guessing it was a bypass.
If he really just doesn't take to it, maybe surgery is an option. I was supposed to get it but chickened out. They were going to remove my tonsils, shorten the uvula and make a slit in the top of my throat to widen it.
The very odd thing is that when I used the CPAP I was more tired than ever.
If he really just doesn't take to it, maybe surgery is an option. I was supposed to get it but chickened out. They were going to remove my tonsils, shorten the uvula and make a slit in the top of my throat to widen it.
The very odd thing is that when I used the CPAP I was more tired than ever.
bethsheba
01-16-2008, 06:45 PM
Msminnamouse,
Sometimes it helps to change humidifiers...the heating element went out on mine (or maybe I pushed the wrong buttton and messed something up-haven't figured it out yet, grin) and I'm waking up with a dry nose and throat and throwing off my mask. Didn't have this problem before and I've been using my little machine for about 3 years now.
I suppose surgery is always an option--it's not something I would consider for myself though. It took me awhile to adjust fully to my mask and my machine but I love them both.
How long did you use your cpap? Did you always feel "more" tired after you used it? Did you report that to your health care provider? If so, what did they say?
Bethsheba
Sometimes it helps to change humidifiers...the heating element went out on mine (or maybe I pushed the wrong buttton and messed something up-haven't figured it out yet, grin) and I'm waking up with a dry nose and throat and throwing off my mask. Didn't have this problem before and I've been using my little machine for about 3 years now.
I suppose surgery is always an option--it's not something I would consider for myself though. It took me awhile to adjust fully to my mask and my machine but I love them both.
How long did you use your cpap? Did you always feel "more" tired after you used it? Did you report that to your health care provider? If so, what did they say?
Bethsheba
Ol'Line Rebel
01-17-2008, 10:37 AM
Does your husband use a nose mask? Or a full face mask? If he is using a nose mask, and he is still snoring, he will need to learn to breath through his nose (it took me alittle more than 2 weeks to do this but I'm told it takes some people longer). I'm thinking that proper use of the cpap should eliminate the snoring, but I could be wrong... Mg may have more to offer here.
Hi,
Yes, he uses a nose mask right now. I don't know much about CPAP, but it seems odd - it's just a frame-type harness for his head; I'd never call it a true MASK. A band comes down in front of his nose and holds this nose-piece in his nose.
So yes, last night I was checking for his mouth being closed! LOL he knew each time I was sliding my finger across his mouth! (I'm "half-blind", so in the middle of night that's all I can do to be fast about it!) The times I checked, and before we started bedtime, his mouth was closed.
BTW, I finally got some more data on him! In his CPAP literature were included copies of his reports from the sleep studies. They seemed distraught that his "mild" problems (with severe snoring) wasn't resolved totally by the CPAP! Of course, also noted was his difficulty being asleep with the CPAP (but DH attributed it mostly to having to be on his back), compared to his actual baseline study. They even noted apparently he had next to no REM sleep during that CPAP. (Also thought it was interesting how they noted his "limb spasms", much worse during CPAP - he's had this alot, but much less now than when we 1st married!)
I read with interest about the deviated septum. DH's GP did say he had that. If his next appt's are kind of up in the air, I might encourage him to see my ENT (for reflux issues), and also check for that "elongated pallet".
Hi,
Yes, he uses a nose mask right now. I don't know much about CPAP, but it seems odd - it's just a frame-type harness for his head; I'd never call it a true MASK. A band comes down in front of his nose and holds this nose-piece in his nose.
So yes, last night I was checking for his mouth being closed! LOL he knew each time I was sliding my finger across his mouth! (I'm "half-blind", so in the middle of night that's all I can do to be fast about it!) The times I checked, and before we started bedtime, his mouth was closed.
BTW, I finally got some more data on him! In his CPAP literature were included copies of his reports from the sleep studies. They seemed distraught that his "mild" problems (with severe snoring) wasn't resolved totally by the CPAP! Of course, also noted was his difficulty being asleep with the CPAP (but DH attributed it mostly to having to be on his back), compared to his actual baseline study. They even noted apparently he had next to no REM sleep during that CPAP. (Also thought it was interesting how they noted his "limb spasms", much worse during CPAP - he's had this alot, but much less now than when we 1st married!)
I read with interest about the deviated septum. DH's GP did say he had that. If his next appt's are kind of up in the air, I might encourage him to see my ENT (for reflux issues), and also check for that "elongated pallet".
bethsheba
01-18-2008, 09:20 AM
...Yes, he uses a nose mask right now. I don't know much about CPAP, but it seems odd - it's just a frame-type harness for his head;
They're all a bit different but yup, if it fits over the nose only, it's considered a nasal mask.
//.So yes, last night I was checking for his mouth being closed! LOL he knew each time I was sliding my finger across his mouth! (I'm "half-blind", so in the middle of night that's all I can do to be fast about it!)
Oh, you are a stitch, :D. I bet there's never a dull moment at your house, ;).
...BTW, I finally got some more data on him!
GREAT! Keep those for future reference.
...Of course, also noted was his difficulty being asleep with the CPAP (but DH attributed it mostly to having to be on his back), compared to his actual baseline study. They even noted apparently he had next to no REM sleep during that CPAP. (Also thought it was interesting how they noted his "limb spasms", much worse during CPAP - he's had this alot, but much less now than when we 1st married!)
Hmmm....that is VERY interesting. It may be the deviated septum and elongated pallet are interfering with his therapy, so the ent may be of some help there. Just for your info, my sleep specialist told me that my acid reflux might disappear with cpap treatment and it did go away. I can't remember why, but sleep apnea causes or aggravates acid reflux. I used to wake up in the night with acid so bad I would throw up....don't have it days or nights now and it's a good feeling.
I really appreciate the feedback about your husband's "limb spasms" (periodic limb movements) being worse on cpap. Having had almost 500 plms when I had my study, I am very interested in learning more about this condition. In my case, I suspect the movements were caused primarily by blood pressure medication. However, at times, I do sleep better without my cpap.
Thanks for all the info you shared, and also the laughs! We do learn so much from each other.
Bethsheba
They're all a bit different but yup, if it fits over the nose only, it's considered a nasal mask.
//.So yes, last night I was checking for his mouth being closed! LOL he knew each time I was sliding my finger across his mouth! (I'm "half-blind", so in the middle of night that's all I can do to be fast about it!)
Oh, you are a stitch, :D. I bet there's never a dull moment at your house, ;).
...BTW, I finally got some more data on him!
GREAT! Keep those for future reference.
...Of course, also noted was his difficulty being asleep with the CPAP (but DH attributed it mostly to having to be on his back), compared to his actual baseline study. They even noted apparently he had next to no REM sleep during that CPAP. (Also thought it was interesting how they noted his "limb spasms", much worse during CPAP - he's had this alot, but much less now than when we 1st married!)
Hmmm....that is VERY interesting. It may be the deviated septum and elongated pallet are interfering with his therapy, so the ent may be of some help there. Just for your info, my sleep specialist told me that my acid reflux might disappear with cpap treatment and it did go away. I can't remember why, but sleep apnea causes or aggravates acid reflux. I used to wake up in the night with acid so bad I would throw up....don't have it days or nights now and it's a good feeling.
I really appreciate the feedback about your husband's "limb spasms" (periodic limb movements) being worse on cpap. Having had almost 500 plms when I had my study, I am very interested in learning more about this condition. In my case, I suspect the movements were caused primarily by blood pressure medication. However, at times, I do sleep better without my cpap.
Thanks for all the info you shared, and also the laughs! We do learn so much from each other.
Bethsheba
Ol'Line Rebel
01-21-2008, 01:58 PM
6 days in, and it seems my DH, while better, isn't doing consistently or appreciably better with snoring.
Last night, I left him; pretty late. 1st time since we started CPAP.
Is it possible the setting might make a difference? He's on 6 mmHg pressure, as I understand the ratings. Supposedly he's "mild" for apnea itself.
Last night, I left him; pretty late. 1st time since we started CPAP.
Is it possible the setting might make a difference? He's on 6 mmHg pressure, as I understand the ratings. Supposedly he's "mild" for apnea itself.
mkgbrook
01-21-2008, 04:21 PM
That pressure is very low. He may need a slightly higher pressure. You can call and talk with the respiratory nurse associated with his sleep MD. Tell her of your problem and ask if increasing the pressure a point or two might help. A pressure of 8 is still low. My husband has mild sleep apnea, he uses a pressure of 9. I use a pressure of 11 and my son who started at the age of 4 on his CPAP was 5.4 to begin with and has slowly increased to 7.6 as he has grown and gained weight.
It seems to me that he may be a bit under treated. Ask how many events an hour he was still having at the pressure of 6? The program may have stopped ramping because it hit a preset acceptable even limit versus increasing until no events are detected.
Also work on training your hubby to sleep on his side. If pillows do not work.. the baseballs sewn into pockets on the back of his shirt might. Last option would be an ENT consultation.
MG
It seems to me that he may be a bit under treated. Ask how many events an hour he was still having at the pressure of 6? The program may have stopped ramping because it hit a preset acceptable even limit versus increasing until no events are detected.
Also work on training your hubby to sleep on his side. If pillows do not work.. the baseballs sewn into pockets on the back of his shirt might. Last option would be an ENT consultation.
MG
bethsheba
01-21-2008, 04:27 PM
...The program may have stopped ramping because it hit a preset acceptable even limit versus increasing until no events are detected....
Given his pressures, ramp may not have been prescribed...you might want to find out if ramp was prescribed and how to go about adjusting it, if necessary.
Bethsheba
Given his pressures, ramp may not have been prescribed...you might want to find out if ramp was prescribed and how to go about adjusting it, if necessary.
Bethsheba
sztoomuch
01-21-2008, 06:04 PM
I started using my CPAP machine for the first time this last Friday (1/18). I was also diagnosed with mild apnea, but my setting is also 11. My machine is such that it starts at the lowest pressure, 4, and within a half an hour it is at its target pressure, 11 (mine ramps in 20 minutes). The machine does not wait for apnea events to change pressure, it simply provides the air at the required pressure.
Now, when my dad started on CPAP, it took him a long time before he stopped snoring (his old machine sounded like a cordless vacuum cleaner - and we could STILL hear him snore). As for me, I have started a journal that I update each morning at 6am when I wake up. That way the night is still fresh in my mind so that I can properly praise (or trash) the CPAP machine and/or mask. It really helps with the provider, though, so that they can get the proper equipment.
As for me, I cannot sleep on my side while on CPAP. I have to be perfectly flat on my back. And, I have to have two pillows so that my head is just at the right angle. It does work.
Now, when my dad started on CPAP, it took him a long time before he stopped snoring (his old machine sounded like a cordless vacuum cleaner - and we could STILL hear him snore). As for me, I have started a journal that I update each morning at 6am when I wake up. That way the night is still fresh in my mind so that I can properly praise (or trash) the CPAP machine and/or mask. It really helps with the provider, though, so that they can get the proper equipment.
As for me, I cannot sleep on my side while on CPAP. I have to be perfectly flat on my back. And, I have to have two pillows so that my head is just at the right angle. It does work.
Ol'Line Rebel
01-24-2008, 12:58 PM
Hey Sz, thanks for the encouragement.
Actually we had 2 "good" nights after that bad night. Which, BTW, was partly because I just didn't seem tired enough to go to sleep again - and the snoring just didn't help it.
I won't count on it being perfect, but hopefully much better than his normal self. Maybe it'll get better, too, like your dad.
I want to say that DH told me the sleep people said it seemed he didn't get any more benefit out of higher pressures. Not that it would harm him, but they didn't seem to get less apnea out of more pressure. And efficiency thing - use the lowest you can, because higher is a waste. But, maybe his doctor will say it's worth trying a bit higher if only for MY benefit!
Of course, I'm "due" in a month, so it's probably all moot, right? LOL I'll probably be awake and about every 2 hours for the next few months, anyway!
Still, noise like that bothers me, always has, and - even being awake feeding baby next to that would probably make me crazy!
Actually we had 2 "good" nights after that bad night. Which, BTW, was partly because I just didn't seem tired enough to go to sleep again - and the snoring just didn't help it.
I won't count on it being perfect, but hopefully much better than his normal self. Maybe it'll get better, too, like your dad.
I want to say that DH told me the sleep people said it seemed he didn't get any more benefit out of higher pressures. Not that it would harm him, but they didn't seem to get less apnea out of more pressure. And efficiency thing - use the lowest you can, because higher is a waste. But, maybe his doctor will say it's worth trying a bit higher if only for MY benefit!
Of course, I'm "due" in a month, so it's probably all moot, right? LOL I'll probably be awake and about every 2 hours for the next few months, anyway!
Still, noise like that bothers me, always has, and - even being awake feeding baby next to that would probably make me crazy!
sztoomuch
01-24-2008, 01:21 PM
No problem, that is what these boards are here for.
I have found that I cannot sleep, even with the CPAP machine, if I am not tired. So, I am developing a ritual of things to do (and not do) to get my brain ready to sleep. Some of it is rather odd (like washing my feet), but some of it is kind of obvious (like reading a really boring book). But the best things I have invested in are 1) a real good pair of blinders to keep the light out (my wife likes to read at night), and 2) a real good pair of earplugs. These arent your garden variety earplugs.
I work at three different powerplants (where electricity is generated), and they require industrial strength earplugs. With these on (and hard hat, and steel-toed boots, and flame-resistant clothing all required for safety), I can stand by a 400 megawatt generator while it is running and barely hear it. I can feel it through my feet and through my chest, but I can barely hear it with those earplugs on.
The problem here is that your are expecting, and there will be a time when you will need to be able to hear your precious little one wake up. I dont know if they make baby monitors that have a headset, but if they do, then perhaps you could get one of those noise-cancelling headsets and use that. Kinda expensive, though. Just a thought.
Wishing you luck and better sleep!
I have found that I cannot sleep, even with the CPAP machine, if I am not tired. So, I am developing a ritual of things to do (and not do) to get my brain ready to sleep. Some of it is rather odd (like washing my feet), but some of it is kind of obvious (like reading a really boring book). But the best things I have invested in are 1) a real good pair of blinders to keep the light out (my wife likes to read at night), and 2) a real good pair of earplugs. These arent your garden variety earplugs.
I work at three different powerplants (where electricity is generated), and they require industrial strength earplugs. With these on (and hard hat, and steel-toed boots, and flame-resistant clothing all required for safety), I can stand by a 400 megawatt generator while it is running and barely hear it. I can feel it through my feet and through my chest, but I can barely hear it with those earplugs on.
The problem here is that your are expecting, and there will be a time when you will need to be able to hear your precious little one wake up. I dont know if they make baby monitors that have a headset, but if they do, then perhaps you could get one of those noise-cancelling headsets and use that. Kinda expensive, though. Just a thought.
Wishing you luck and better sleep!