Going thru a rough patch

I am in a much better place since I started using my BiPAP machine, with some rough nights here and there. But this week has been bad. I’m lucky if I can sleep an hour without waking up, maybe 2 here or there. Last night I did my usual starting process. I put my mask on and wore it for about 15 minutes sitting up until my breathing normalized. Then I laid down, I’m a side sleeper and struggle trying to get into a position that didn’t feel like it was comfortable for the mask for breathing. I wake up after about 15 to 30 minutes, roll over to my other side try to get comfortable again, wake up after 15 to 30, rinse repeat. This isn’t abnormal for me to start the night, but usually after 1.5 to 2 hours I’ll start sleeping for 2 to 3 hours before waking up. But lately I’m waking up feeling super uncomfortable in the mask, take it off and start the whole process again.

My Apneas have been below 5 consistently for the past 2 months. My leak is sporadic depending on the night, sometimes having 0 leak, sometimes having in the 20s. But I never wake up with dry mouth or anything to make me worry about leaks. I use the ResMed airfit p10 nasal pillows. I would try to use Oscar but I only have an iPad. I’m frustrated because I feel like I’ve regressed this past week in my results. Is this normal to go thru 5 months in? I’m not sure if I should try something new or just tough it out and see if I get better results.

Oh, I tried brand new nasal pillows and head band but that didn’t help.

Hi KennyAZ

I'm sorry to hear things are not so good.

I think most forum members go through a rough patch from time to time.

It's hard to think what can be done about it, especially as you become more tired and distressed.

Usually this situation is the result of a number of compounding factors and the solution is likely to be a number of experimental changes.

Have you tried reverting to your old pillow for a night or two?

Are there issues you could face or resolve that might be making it harder for you to sleep?

Would relaxation exercises help you get better quality sleep?

In the past I have found that, for me, Melatonin helps to some extent.

I'm going through a rough patch myself atm and looking for better options. RBD

My latest goal is to implement changes aimed at being more awake and active during the days, in the hope that it will result in better sleep at night.

I hope you find the solutions you are looking for.