I'll share my experiences with hopes they may help. I started with my machine 5 weeks ago. The first week was terrible, primarily mask leaks. I did have some claustrophobia (minor) and I felt OVERWHELMED and INTIMIDATED by the whole process. It was like this new "friend" was controlling me and I didn't like it! LOL But then, I found some fixes, primarily a mask liner which took care of the leaks. But there was still the feeling of "what are you doing to me" when that air would start up. But I can say that as I got into the 2nd and 3rd week, I started taking control. I think what Theresa said is key. You have to understand it to get beyond the feelings. I would dread going to bed the first couple of weeks. But now? I actually look forward to putting on that stupid mask and feeling that air! I went back to the first mask I used because the Quattro started hurting my forehead. I'm using the Amara View now which I like because it only covers my mouth/nose, the less equipment the better - but that was the mask I hated at first, so go figure. I could have easily given up that first week but I stuck with it, and I'm so glad I did. Best of luck to everyone, this sure isn't an easy thing to get used to. :)
The remzzs masks are expensive because they're disposable so they run about $25 a month. I ordered a mask liner from Pad A Cheek for $20 and it's supposed to last 6 months. I have had no leaks since I started using one. After you wash it the first time, let it air dry flat. I did that but I had to put a quick warm iron on it to get the wrinkles out. The wrinkles caused a little leaking. Once I ironed it, it was fine. I would have stopped using my cpap had I not found these liners. Give them a try!
http://www.padacheek.com/PAC_Maskliners.html
I can't remember if I had to tighten it more - I was doing it pretty tight to begin with to try to stop the leaks. I turned my machine onto 12 pressure while I had it on sitting, then I laid down and moved around a lot to make sure it didn't leak (if it does, you may have to tighten it a little). I have some very faint lines on my face in the morning but they disappear fast. Another positive thing (for me) is that the couple of times it did leak, it was very "gentle" - it didn't make me jump a foot off the bed, so I was able to just push it against my face (adjust the placement w/o tightening) and then it was fine. I'm using the CPAP pillow too but I have to have it on top of another pillow b/c I like my head higher. I'm loving both. Last night I had the best sleep since starting this a few weeks ago. Good luck!! They are super fast with delivery. I hope you find it helps!
I had the same problems but I ordered a mask liner from Pad A Cheek and it did the trick, no leaks and a quiet night. I would definitely suggest giving it a try. Here is the link: http://www.padacheek.com/PAC_Maskliners.html
Hey everyone. I'm a newbie--just started using a CPAP machine a week ago, but I have a feeling I've probably had apnea for years. I'm struggling some in getting used to wearing the mask. I'm having some Aerophagia (new word I just learned LOL). Guess I'm swallowing air, so I'm hoping that clears up. It's funny, I feel like my nights are terrible, waking up several times with this mask - BUT I notice a big difference in my alertness during the day. Whereas before I always needed a power nap around 2:30-3:00 pm - now I don't feel tired at all, so it appears to be working. I'm excited to see some real improvement in my all around quality of life!!
Hi everyone. I just joined this forum. VERY new to my CPAP machine, just one week but I've been swallowing air because I noticed that I burp some in the middle of night when I would take the mask off (and sometimes with it still on) and the next morning I would definitely feel gassy (tummy only). I would take a Gas-X which helps a little. Being new, of course I'm googling like crazy to find answers. I've had GERD for about 10 years. I take Omeprazole 3 times a week (used to be daily). I read an article today that said people with GERD and Apnea might be more at risk for Aerophagia (swallowing air). Seems they are still doing lots of studies.
I'm trying to get used to wearing this thing every night and it hasn't been too bad but I am a bit concerned about the tummy air. The gal at the place I got my machine said it could clear up but to talk to my doctor if it doesn't. I'm going to try everything though. Just ordered a cpap pillow and will start sleeping on an incline. I have full face mask and Sleepmapper says my fit is 100% but I still notice some leaks at night (my pressure is set to 12 with a ramp-thank God). I'm glad I joined this forum, hope to learn a few things!
