I would highly suggest giving cpap another go. If too high of a pressure is an issue there is always bipap as well which will help with that. Like any medical device it takes getting used to. Some people take months to fully acclimate. But it is very important to treat the respiratory issues you are having because they cause a lot of damage internally from the low oxygen and strain on the heart. Exhaustion is minimal compared to the damage it is doing internally over time. Sleeping pills will only exaggerate sleep apnea. If cpap is just 100% not an option for you than at least try an oral appliance. They are usually only used for mild sleep apnea but if it is all you can tolerate than it is better than nothing. I am a sleep technologist so I deal with it with patients on a daily basis. Usually after using it for so long they go from hating it to never wanting to be without it. Hope your journey to better sleep is around the corner.
I would recommend using soclean. My patients say it works fantastic. I'm a sleep technologist (RPSGT). You just put your mask in with the hose attached and turn it on and it cleans the humidifier (if you use one), mask and hose. You should definitely be cleaning the hose. Moisture buildup in the hose is a breeding ground for bacteria and other pathogens. As for the machine itself you dont really need to clean it. You can wipe dust off the outside if you want but other than that there is no need to clean it. It can really do more harm than good if any of the inner workings of the machine got wet. Other than the automatic cleaners like soclean the best method is just plain soap and water, rinse well and leave out to dry. Distilled water only for filling the humidifier. You are breathing that water in through humidity so it is asking to get sick with anything but distilled.
