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I experienced the same problem. The CPAP helped a little on my sleepiness but I was still struggling to stay awake. I’m not sure if you’ve had a PSG and MSLT (nap study the next day after the overnight sleep study). The nap study helps to determine if you have Narcolepsy or not. I didn’t but have since been DX with Idiopathic Hypersomnia (IH). I’m basically sleepy 24/7/365. I was on Provigil (similar to Nuvigil). I was taking 200 mg twice a day. Although it helped, I was still sleepy and could fall asleep at meetings or watching tv. I ended up on high dosages of Adderall but even that did not take care of my sleepiness 100%. Good luck on your trial. They usually start you on a low dosage. Do not be afraid to let the Dr know if you’re still sleepy (important to use sleepy not tired as the mean different things to the Dr.).
I have recently gone on Medicare and have BCBS as my healthcare. If you aren’t on Medicare, your insurance will really vary depending on your company plan. I’ve worked insurance for many years. Many companies now self insure and they pay the bills but have someone like BCBS manage the coverage. Your DME will need to send a compliance report, usually to your Dr who then reports it to your insurance company. I just did this last week. I called the DME requesting they fax the report to my Dr. I then had a Dr appointment in which my Dr reviewed the report. I don’t think I need to see the Dr each time but this was the first time since going on Medicare and 3 months usage of my machine. I suggest you call your DME and request your usage report be sent to your Dr. Then let the Dr know that BCBS needs to know you are in compliance.
I’ve been going through similar insomnia as you recently. I find if I wake up and can’t go back to sleep, I get out of bed for awhile and then go back to bed and can sleep for 2-4 hours longer. I’m lucky in that I am recently retired so don’t have to get up for work anymore. But, I also had this issue when I was working. Laying in bed is not the best option. Getting up for an hour and then going back to bed is better. I also found that using my CPAP machine helped me not wake up as often. Prior to using the machine, I was waking up every 2 hours.
I use a full face mask, Mirage Quattro, and find that I like the comfort of this mask better than any other. I also purchased Padacheek mask liner plus Anti-leak strap. That’s the best purchase I’ve made as my mask now lasts for months! I haven’t had to change my mask since using the mask liner starting in January. The mask liner is machine washable and, therefore, reusable. My mask leaks are starting to increase so I guess it’s time to change my mask. Cheaper than having to change it every month! My leaks decreased also using the liner and strap.
I just started on Medicare in July so had to switch my DME provider. Medicare requires at least 4 hours of usage 70% of the time or they’ll stop paying for the machine rental. You’ll need to make sure you use it at least the minimum or they’ll stop paying. I have 2 CPAP machines as I have a place in CA and MN and leave one in each so I don’t have to constantly bring it back and forth. I had damage to one on plane trip to CA and had to purchase one myself so I just leave that one there. Since Medicare requires me to use my new machine while it’s being rented, I’ll have to bring the new one with the next few times I travel. Bummer but I don’t want to get stuck with paying for it myself
Let us know what you find out. I, personally, love the heated hose. It’s helped so I no longer have a dry mouth and no water in the tube. I’m not sure about putting the machine on the floor. I always have mine on my nightstand so it’s a little higher than my bed. I’ve had my house up for sale and whenever there is a showing, I started putting my COAP under my bed rather then unplugging and moving it. I discovered that I would get water in the tube when I did that. That’s the only time I get water in my tubing.
I did see a person on here who couldn’t afford to purchase one. Not sure how long ago they posted but maybe you could look through some of the posts and find it. I’m sure that person would appreciate a cheap machine.
I never had a problem with acne but I did buy a cloth washable cover for my mask. Not only does it help so you don’t sweat with the mask but I also found it gives a better fit and my mask lasts months longer with it. I purchased the cloth cover in January and have been able to use the same mask since then. Well worth the investment!
I started with the nose mask but found I like a full face mask better. I no longer have to keep my mouth shut while sleeping plus, if I get a cold, I can still use my CPAP machine even if my nose is stuffy you’ll need to try different types of masks to see what works for you.
Thanks for the information. Yes, it is hard to find a good Dr. I found my excellent Dr through a Facebook group asking for recommendations. My son, who works for 3M in tech, just gave me a SD reader Monday. I’ll check into Sleepyhead
