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Getting used to using a cpap machine

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itsdrew93 +0 points · almost 5 years ago Original Poster

Anyone got any tips on how i can get used to using my cpap machine i use a full face mask as im a mouth breather but everytime i wake up i always take off my mask turn the machine off and just go back to sleep i never seem to wear it for a full night i always take it off everynight because when i wake up with it on thats it it has to come off otherwise i cant get back to sleep and feel like i cant breath

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Biguglygremlin +0 points · almost 5 years ago Sleep Enthusiast

It's a tough spot to be in itsdrew93 and probably the point where many patients fail to continue with therapy so it is a very important question.

All I can suggest is that you have to decide if it really is important for you and if it is you need to follow through because you have made a decision and are determined.

The other aspect is a kind of conditioning to de-sensitize the whole process and train yourself to accept it as normal. Wearing the mask (minus the hose) while reading or watching tv or browsing online etc.

I'm not sure that I ever achieved that but even without it sheer stubborn mindedness and determination can do the trick.

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itsdrew93 +0 points · almost 5 years ago Original Poster

Yh thanks but the thing is i wear glasses and cant see anything without them lol

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Sierra +1 point · almost 5 years ago Sleep Patron

It sounds like your pressure may not be high enough if you feel short of air.

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itsdrew93 +0 points · almost 5 years ago Original Poster

Nah i sorted the short of air problem but still cant get used to sleeping with a mask on my face lol

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Francesco +0 points · almost 5 years ago

Are you sure you are mouth breather? I thought I was, initially got a full mask, hated it, and was about to throw in the towel. I decided to give a nose pillow mask a try. I found it pretty much stuck my tongue in place and kept my mouth closed letting me breathe just thru nose. Might be worth trying before giving up.

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mikeypap +0 points · almost 5 years ago

I had the exact same issues. It turns out I’m not a mouth breather and the pillows are working great. I’m telling you this machine is a game changer. Once you get your issues figured out your going to be shocked with the way you will feel.

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Ruby +0 points · almost 5 years ago Sleep Commentator
  1. Try a different mask. There are some full-face masks that allow you to wear glasses. You can also try using a chin strap with a nasal pillow if you want to go that route. It will help keep your mouth closed.
  2. As for taking the mask off, try setting an alarm to wake you up. If you have taken off your mask, just put it back on. I know being woken up by an alarm disrupts your sleep but so does sleeping without your mask/machine. You just don't realize it. Eventually you will get used to wearing it.
  3. The third thing is making sure that the mask is fitting like it should. If it is leaking or causing discomfort, then that may be making you take it off. Fix the what is wrong and maybe that will help.
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