How to get used to cpap machine

[Skyblue1202]

Any adive on how to get used to a new myair cpap machine and mask made by resmed?

[Rubymurray25]

Hi, When I first started on Cpap 2 years ago I really didn't know what to expect. I am extremely claustrophobic and was dreading the mask but when they gave me nose cushions instead I thought all was well. The first few weeks in particular were bad and I had a really raw skin on my nose from the extra moisture and air pressure. Looking at the daily data on the machine ( via Internet as I am sure you use it ) I was failing and decided to buy a cheap chinstrap which certainly helped so when I went back for my monthly check and they said I needed a full mask , I asked if I could try a little longer with the nose cushions which I was really getting on well with at that point. They gave me a much better chinstrap Ruby one from USA and although I had to put the strap on tightly suddenly I was getting good scores and most importantly no mouth leakage. Two years on and I regularly get a hundred score and low leakage and feel so much better and I know it has helped my Atrial Fibrillation. If you need any further advice please do ask as I feel I have been given a new life and wish to share the joy. Good luck. Max

[Possumgoose in reply to Rubymurray25]

Hello,

I’ve been on Cpap for about 5 years. I have a mask, but it’s kept in the draw only for use if I’ve a cold. The rest of the time I use pillows. Tried a chin strap but found I do just as well without one. Tips I was given:

Experiment with the size of pillows you use. I was initially fitted with medium (I think everyone is ‘medium’). Not the best fit. Tried the large. Much better, didn’t try to disappear up my nose!

Big consideration - are the headgear straps too tight. At first everyone thinks you need to pull up as tight as possible. Just the opposite - slack off until the pillows barely touch against you nose. If you get rushing air just tighten the smallest you need. You feel that they may move too much during the night, but I found directly I settled down they rarely move too much.

Good to hear Max of your success. Hear of so many people giving up early on, when all they need to do is keep fine tuning until they get it right for them (sometimes the hospital/ clinic don’t help, one-size-fits-all mentally!).

[Janelr]

I started on resumed in June and struggled for couple weeks with mask probably because wasn’t suitable (caused soreness on my nose) changed to a new mask and was way better never looked back.

I find if suction isn’t right I just pull it of my face and let it go back and the suction goes right.

Perseverance is the key.

[Skyblue1202]

Thanks all for the reply and support. I'm finding the fit okay. It's just I still keep waking up in the night and although I'm getting good scores I'm still having up to 29 events per hour is this normal when you first start?

[thara9643]

It takes time.

[Zappa61]

Hi as said it takes time, I'm on a Resmed & Full face, Wasn't easy at first had Nasal mask "Nightmare" taping up mouth etc. just over 15+yrs a happy bunny, Stay Safe