Sleep Apnoea and CPAP

Sleephead · 10-02-2016 1:45pm

SeeZee wrote: »

It's a new mask is included every year and a service is included every year. The mask I got was a whisp. Getting small leaks when tge machibe ramps up to 10 pressure. Only started treatment a few days ago so it prob needs adjusting

I use the airfit P10. Having tried half a dozen others it really is top of the range.

0-3 Apneas per hour. Apparently the average healthy person has up to 5. So really happy with it, not a single leak

Sleephead · 10-02-2016 1:47pm

SeeZee wrote: »

It's a new mask is included every year and a service is included every year. The mask I got was a whisp. Getting small leaks when tge machibe ramps up to 10 pressure. Only started treatment a few days ago so it prob needs adjusting

I use the airfit P10. Having tried half a dozen others it really is top of the range.

0-3 Apneas per hour. Apparently the average healthy person has up to 5. So really happy with it, not a single leak

looksee · 13-02-2016 10:07pm

I have been using a machine for three years. Initially I was told 'you don't look like someone with sleep apnoea' because while I am certainly not skinny, I do not have a lot of weight around my throat area. Turned out I was borderline severe. The first consultant I went to gave me a prescription for a machine but did no more than that, the technician (who was brilliant) helped me get sorted with it. Subsequently I went to a different consultant but did not really get a lot further.

Finally I arranged a test in the Mater private hospital in Dublin, got a much more convincing test done and a proper consultation which established a good few things. In spite of the muddling through my apnoeas had in fact gone down to 3 per hour which is a fraction of what they were.

I now seem to have got to a stage where the balance between the disturbance caused by wearing a mask, and the untreated apnoeas when I do not wear it are about equal. I have been advised to keep using the machine to get down to zero, but it is now harder than the early stages I think.

One interesting point is that women tend to present differently than men, men get sleepy, so they might doze during the day, or when driving. Women tend to get tired but not sleepy, apparently. That is /was certainly the situation in my case. The mood disturbances caused by persistent lack of sleep are very distressing, I found when I was sleep deprived I became - paranoid for want of a better description.

Glebee · 14-02-2016 11:35am

Anybody else go down this route for apnea

http://www.somnowell.com/

Tried the mask a few times and just cant use it. Costly but I need to probally do something though at this stage.

Water John · 14-02-2016 11:52am

I came across this recently also, any opinions? Works on vacuum rather than pressure.

http://apnicure.com

paddyirish23 · 14-02-2016 3:31pm

Hi all I too have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea and have been put on a cpap machine but I'm having trouble getting use to it finding it hard to get deep breaths when needed sometimes and even woke up a few times gasping for air in a panic. Is this common for the first time users? ?

Real Psycrow · 15-02-2016 12:46pm

paddyirish23 wrote: »

Hi all I too have recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea and have been put on a cpap machine but I'm having trouble getting use to it finding it hard to get deep breaths when needed sometimes and even woke up a few times gasping for air in a panic. Is this common for the first time users? ?

I am only new too Paddy. I have no idea if its common, but from what I can tell with the nurse who's monitoring my machine, they'll adjust settings as needed if you're having trouble. Maybe the settings on the machine isn't high enough for you or something? I'd contact them and tell them what's going on.

Boulevardier · 15-02-2016 4:44pm

My face-mask is beginning to look a bit grimy inside. Is it OK to just wash it, or do I need to use vinegar etc. as is the case with the water box?

Real Psycrow · 15-02-2016 5:17pm

Boulevardier wrote: »

My face-mask is beginning to look a bit grimy inside. Is it OK to just wash it, or do I need to use vinegar etc. as is the case with the water box?

I was told to wash my mask every day. The nurse said warm water and washing up liquid is ok. I have a sponge put aside that's not used for anything other than my mask. I don't do it every day, but definitely once a week at a minimum

SeeZee · 22-02-2016 3:23am

Low humidity is my problem. Even at high I'm dryed out in a few minutes

sandra06 · 22-02-2016 3:54am

Glebee wrote: »

Was diagnosed with this a few years ago, and done the overnight study in a clinic to get it confirmed. Started off using the CPAP machine but after a few weeks had to get rid of it. Could not use it at all or get used to the fact this large machine was beside the bed buzzing away.
Have been using cheap oral devices for the last few years and while not the most comfortable seem to stop the snoring. Anybody try the dentist fitted oral device, need to try something, wife is going to strangle me on of these nights....;)

there very small now the machine and dont make much noise my hubby uses one

the_syco · 02-04-2016 3:24am

Glebee wrote: »

Could not use it at all or get used to the fact this large machine was beside the bed buzzing away.

Had to post after reading this. Heck, I had to make a video to show how small and silent these machines are!

I'm using a "REMstar Auto with A-Flex", which I rent at €97 a month by direct debit. The mask came free with the rental of the machine. A qualified nurse came to me to set it up (on a weekday evening, after I had finished work), and showed me how to use it, at no charge to me.

00:02 The click of turning it on (it also can turn itself on if you put the mask on, and start breathing normally)
00:05 The air starts going on
00:12 - 00:33 Me putting the phone down to put the mask on
00:45 Me! As I breath through my nose, I was able to get a nose mask. However, if you breath through your mouth, you'll need to get a full face mask.
00:51 to the end of the video is me showing how silent this machine is.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsjLEvnoWnM

Before, I used to snore so loudly you'd hear the snoring downstairs, and I used to tired all the time. Also, I'd take ages to fall asleep. Now, I have a lot more energy during the day, and I will fall asleep shortly after putting the mask on to breath. Have been using it for a few months now, and find it has helped me a lot.

Glebee · 13-04-2016 1:01pm

Have to try and give this another go..:( Anybody know if medical insurance goes any way to cover the monthly hire cost??

SavvyGuy · 27-04-2016 11:53pm

Better of buying on line most cpap machines are robust and will last for years, the rental price is over the top and hard to justify. Bring the cpap machine to your sleep clinic and they will set the pressures. Ask for advice from the sleep specialist nurse, most are very knowledgeable, informative and helpful.

the_syco · 28-04-2016 8:16am

Did rental for the last few months, but in the long term, buying is probably better.

Looking for a refurb unit, as I'm going to Canada for two years, and it seems I may have to redo the test again over there to qualify to get a machine over there

Glebee · 28-04-2016 9:31am

Checked with my health insurance, they will cover me for 3 months rental and 300 euro off purchase price. I was going to go back to the original company I got the machine off but I see from there company info is the very same machine I took a dislike to. Might try a different company with a different model unit. I presume its a matter of getting my sleep results from the clinic because im not to inclined to do another sleep study.

the_syco · 06-05-2016 7:13pm

As I'm going to Canada for a while, I gave the one I was renting back to the company, and looked around for a replacement. I was paying €96 a month to rent the machine, and got a 2nd hand one for €300 from a company based in Athlone. I just needed Peamount hospital (who I did the sleep study through) to fax them that I had done the sleep study.

The person who drove out to me set up the machine for me, and I'm happy with it. In saying that, I have not used it to sleep yet, but it looks like it'll be fine from the test breathing I did with it when I got the machine.

GadgetGeek · 07-05-2016 9:11pm

Long term rental is not really a option for me as I am not getting close to the drug repayment limit of €140. Any one with any suggestions for a bargain buy or just a good deal, can you post or PM me.
Thanks, GG.

Technoprisoner · 12-05-2016 2:25pm

I found out yesterday that i have severe sleep apnoea. I had a sleep study done 3 weeks ago and had to fight to get my results...I was told it would be sometime next year before i find out and get to see anybody, and that my gp could request the results so i went that way. He is sending off a letter to see if my appointment can be hurried up. But in the mean time i have been looking at the different machines available. Has anyone got recommendations on these as i don't want to spend a lot of money to find out the machine doesn't suit me

SavvyGuy · 14-05-2016 4:21pm

Technoprisoner wrote: »

I found out yesterday that i have severe sleep apnoea. I had a sleep study done 3 weeks ago and had to fight to get my results...I was told it would be sometime next year before i find out and get to see anybody, and that my gp could request the results so i went that way. He is sending off a letter to see if my appointment can be hurried up. But in the mean time i have been looking at the different machines available. Has anyone got recommendations on these as i don't want to spend a lot of money to find out the machine doesn't suit me

(My personal opinion)

I have been on treatment for sleep apnoea for over 14 years. I am surprised that you have been asked to wait that long

As you have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, standard treatment is with a CPAP or APAP machine, I have a preference for APAP meaning it automatically changes the pressure you may require and you can set the range. You can switch the settings to CPAP meaning fixed, if it suits you better.

I am using the DevilBliss APAP sleep cube for over ten years and never had any trouble with it. Devilbiss are bringing a new smaller sleep cube to the market soon, handy when travelling. Although the current version is quite small anyway. There is an option to purchase the data link for the sleep cube, I think it's important to have if you budjet can take it. It's important to get a mask that is comfortable and suits your face profile.

I got my sleepcube from Direct Medical. My suggestion would be not to wait till next year. Get your doctor to get your results from the hospital, what you need is the optimum pressure from the sleep study. The staff at Direct Medical are very helpful can will set up your machine and get a mask that suits

Recap.
1 Your Doctor to request pressure to set your APAP
2 Get an Auto CPAP called APAP my preference Devilbliss and humidifier
3 Get Data link for your new APAP Machine (Optional)
4 Get mask that suits

Personally my quality of life is greatly diminished without APAP

I hope you get sorted soon and if you can manage items 1-4 you can message me for how I use the Data Link. Good Look

Boulevardier · 08-06-2016 12:04pm

I am due to go on a holiday which involves a transatlantic flight, which means I will have check-in luggage.

I plan to bring my CPAP with me, but I would rather keep it in the suitcase than carry it on as hand-luggage.

I have a letter explaining to whoever it may concern that I need to travel with the device.

Does anyone have experiance or knowledge of travelling with a CPAP, and if so, any advice?

drake70 · 08-06-2016 12:36pm

Boulevardier wrote: »

I am due to go on a holiday which involves a transatlantic flight, which means I will have check-in luggage.

I plan to bring my CPAP with me, but I would rather keep it in the suitcase than carry it on as hand-luggage.

I have a letter explaining to whoever it may concern that I need to travel with the device.

Does anyone have experiance or knowledge of travelling with a CPAP, and if so, any advice?

Hi, I have always travelled with my CPAP either in a small carry-on case or as carry-on luggage itself. I wouldn't trust baggage handlers not to damage it.

Most airlines operate a waiver scheme for carrying medical devices within the cabin at no extra charge.

Which airline are you flying with?

Boulevardier · 09-06-2016 2:16pm

Drake, thanks for that.

I am going via Aer Lingus and Virgin.

Putting the CPAP in my luggage would be much more convenient. My fear is that foreign baggage handlers would not know what it was from a luggage x-ray, and I would be teken in and questioned.

drake70 · 09-06-2016 2:58pm

My advice would be to contact both airlines regarding this.

When I have brought mine in a small carry-on case, I was asked to open it at the security checkpoint. However, when it was in it's own case/bag no questions were asked.

Just remember that baggage handlers* can be none too gentle with you luggage and your CPAP may get damaged.

*apologies to gentle baggage handlers

FaganJr · 30-11-2016 8:51pm

HI All

I was diagnosed with Severe Sleep Apnea today, in one way I'm relieved but another way I'm worried. My consultant was completely amazed that I could keep my liftestyle going and relatively normal. He maintains that the CPAP will transform my life.
So thats why I'm worried, I've been finding it increasingly hard to keep everything going, like work, marriage, family, life, friends, pass times etc.
So for you guys was it really a transformation of your life, or did you just get more restful sleep and life continued as normal.
I had my consultation last week, my sleep test last night and my CPAP trial tomorrow night.
So for you guys a few miles down the road, how is life now??
Thanks!

Nemesis · 30-11-2016 9:04pm

I'm using a CPAP machine for the last year.
I had an AHI of 80 which is quite severe.

Over the last year I lost weight, ran 10k and lowered my golf h'cap by 4 shots

Some nights the mask just doesn't fit well and I get air leaks which wakes me up but overall its positive and no more snoring.

Boulevardier · 02-12-2016 4:45pm

A CPAP machine was featured recently on the sitcom Black-ish. One of the characters was sleeping at his desk with it on. He mentioned something about having more lucid nightmares!

Glebee · 02-12-2016 6:55pm

There was also a very funny scene in a recent Modern Family with featured two CPAP machines and a person without one trying to sleep

Sleephead · 04-12-2016 3:40pm

FaganJr wrote: »

HI All

I was diagnosed with Severe Sleep Apnea today, in one way I'm relieved but another way I'm worried. My consultant was completely amazed that I could keep my liftestyle going and relatively normal. He maintains that the CPAP will transform my life.
So thats why I'm worried, I've been finding it increasingly hard to keep everything going, like work, marriage, family, life, friends, pass times etc.
So for you guys was it really a transformation of your life, or did you just get more restful sleep and life continued as normal.
I had my consultation last week, my sleep test last night and my CPAP trial tomorrow night.
So for you guys a few miles down the road, how is life now??
Thanks!

I almost gave up on it. Took me a good 3 weeks to get used to it.

Now I love it, its fantastic, I'd forgotten what really good quality sleep felt like.

It will change your life for the better.

FaganJr · 04-12-2016 7:43pm

Sleephead wrote:

I almost gave up on it. Took me a good 3 weeks to get used to it.
Now I love it, its fantastic, I'd forgotten what really good quality sleep felt like.
It will change your life for the better.

Thanks, I'm finding it difficult, waking a few times a night.
Air whooshing all over the place .
Reset , start again.
Not going to give up on it, didn't realize how tired I was until I started this.
Feeling about me rested in the mornings.

Sleephead · 04-12-2016 9:44pm

FaganJr wrote: »

Thanks, I'm finding it difficult, waking a few times a night.
Air whooshing all over the place .
Reset , start again.
Not going to give up on it, didn't realize how tired I was until I started this.
Feeling about me rested in the mornings.

Face mask choice is key. I went for nasal pillows. No leaks at all. I couldn't hack the big clunky masks.

The Airfit P10 Is superb.

FaganJr · 04-12-2016 10:44pm

Sleephead wrote:

Face mask choice is key. I went for nasal pillows. No leaks at all. I couldn't hack the big clunky masks.[
The Airfit P10 Is superb.

Well it is week 1, didn't think it would be easy.
I'll definitely look into that if I keep having trouble with mask.
Thanks for advice!!

Real Psycrow · 05-12-2016 12:28pm

FaganJr wrote: »

HI All

I was diagnosed with Severe Sleep Apnea today, in one way I'm relieved but another way I'm worried. My consultant was completely amazed that I could keep my liftestyle going and relatively normal. He maintains that the CPAP will transform my life.
So thats why I'm worried, I've been finding it increasingly hard to keep everything going, like work, marriage, family, life, friends, pass times etc.
So for you guys was it really a transformation of your life, or did you just get more restful sleep and life continued as normal.
I had my consultation last week, my sleep test last night and my CPAP trial tomorrow night.
So for you guys a few miles down the road, how is life now??
Thanks!

I'm coming up on a year using mine. It was hard to get used to at the start, definitely. But now it's almost a comfort to put it on and I simply can't sleep without it. I've tried a couple of times and I wake every 40 minutes or so and get a terrible sore throat from snoring.

In the past I would have to stop to sleep sometimes on the way home from work. I even have felt like doing that on the way to work after being asleep all night! But since having the machine, those things have all changed.

Just watch to make sure that it does help you tackle all those things in your life though. They might not be necessarily related. Speak to your doctor, if all parts of your life are getting on top of you, maybe you're suffering from depression a bit as well and best to nip that in the bud early rather than letting it slide. Hopefully its not that, hopefully the CPAP will change your life. But I didn't want to not mention it.

Masala · 05-12-2016 12:33pm

Quick question ...what about travelling abroad on Ryanair / other airlines.

Can you carry the machine in Hand luggage??? What weight is the typical machine..and I presume it will have to be part of your cabin baggage weight allowance (less than 10kg for Ryanair)

Real Psycrow · 05-12-2016 12:36pm

Masala wrote: »

Quick question ...what about travelling abroad on Ryanair / other airlines.

Can you carry the machine in Hand luggage??? What weight is the typical machine..and I presume it will have to be part of your cabin baggage weight allowance (less than 10kg for Ryanair)

Different carriers have different rules. It would be no problem carrying it if it is your only piece of hand luggage. As Ryanair now allows a "handbag" with your hand luggage, I'd say you're covered there too.

However your doctor can issue you with a letter saying you have to take it on board. This should only cover you if you plan to sleep on the plane, but I can't see any of them stopping you when you have a doctor's letter.

Take a look on the carrier's website though. I've had 8 flights this year with mine and no issue at all.

FaganJr · 05-12-2016 1:54pm

Real Psycrow wrote: »

I'm coming up on a year using mine. It was hard to get used to at the start, definitely. But now it's almost a comfort to put it on and I simply can't sleep without it. I've tried a couple of times and I wake every 40 minutes or so and get a terrible sore throat from snoring.

In the past I would have to stop to sleep sometimes on the way home from work. I even have felt like doing that on the way to work after being asleep all night! But since having the machine, those things have all changed.

Just watch to make sure that it does help you tackle all those things in your life though. They might not be necessarily related. Speak to your doctor, if all parts of your life are getting on top of you, maybe you're suffering from depression a bit as well and best to nip that in the bud early rather than letting it slide. Hopefully its not that, hopefully the CPAP will change your life. But I didn't want to not mention it.

Thanks,

I have anxiety but this seems to be a symptom of the sleep Apnea. But I had that under control but not fixing it.

That's why the Prof was surprised at how well I was doing considering how long I've been like this.

So I think I will be able to improve the anxiety as I get better sleep.

Will speak to the doc down the road when I get this sleeping with the mask, as I'm waking a few times a night yet.

But still feeling better even with broken sleep.

Thanks

Glebee · 05-12-2016 7:25pm

Im going to go back and give CPAP another try. It been a few yers since I last attempted it and maybe I did not give it a good enough go last time.

Boulevardier · 06-12-2016 9:10pm

I have a letter from the CPAP rental company which I am supposed to present at the airport when I check-in or at security.

It gives me the right to carry it on-board in addition to normal cabin baggage. My device cannot be used in-flight so that is not the issue.

As yet I have never had a problem, but there may well be ignorant staff who might make trouble. For that reason, I would try and clear it in advance with the airline.

Glebee · 06-12-2016 9:18pm

Real Psycrow wrote: »

I'm coming up on a year using mine. It was hard to get used to at the start, definitely. But now it's almost a comfort to put it on and I simply can't sleep without it. I've tried a couple of times and I wake every 40 minutes or so and get a terrible sore throat from snoring.

In the past I would have to stop to sleep sometimes on the way home from work. I even have felt like doing that on the way to work after being asleep all night! But since having the machine, those things have all changed.

Just watch to make sure that it does help you tackle all those things in your life though. They might not be necessarily related. Speak to your doctor, if all parts of your life are getting on top of you, maybe you're suffering from depression a bit as well and best to nip that in the bud early rather than letting it slide. Hopefully its not that, hopefully the CPAP will change your life. But I didn't want to not mention it.

Would you mind me asking what type of machine your using at the moment?

FaganJr · 06-12-2016 11:47pm

Glebee wrote:

Would you mind me asking what type of machine your using at the moment?

On machine's, are ye renting or have ye bought out right??

Glebee · 07-12-2016 2:14pm

FaganJr wrote: »

On machine's, are ye renting or have ye bought out right??

At the moment only going back to suppliers to see what I can get. Talking to Direct Medical in Athlone at the moment, rent for a start with a purchase option i suppose.

Real Psycrow · 07-12-2016 2:48pm

Glebee wrote: »

Would you mind me asking what type of machine your using at the moment?

Sure. I'm using a Fisher Paykel. This is the model here. https://www.fphcare.com/homecare/sleep-apnea/cpap-devices/

Real Psycrow · 07-12-2016 2:54pm

FaganJr wrote: »

On machine's, are ye renting or have ye bought out right??

I'm renting still. It's basically €100 a month which isn't cheap, but I'm going to stick with it for a while.

Finding what suits you is not a cut and dry process. Included in my rental are new masks and I've tried multiple masks this year to try to get the best one for me. I'm on a new type of mask for the past month or so.

Once I'm happy with my setup, I plan to buy and have discussed this with the company I'm renting from, BOC. They have a system in place for customer's to buy their machines outright for cheaper prices depending on how long you've been renting for. However if you do this, you will then have to pay an annual fee for servicing and pay for parts yourself, including new masks which are around €150 each, and should be replaced every 6 months or so if kept well. That's why I'm happy to keep renting for now until I know exactly what I need.

Black Swan · 08-12-2016 3:56pm

Interesting research: Long-term cardiovascular outcomes in men with obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnoea with or without treatment with continuous positive airway pressure: an observational study.

Brillig · 31-01-2017 7:12pm

SavvyGuy 14May16 said he thinks important to buy Data Link for Cpap machine. Can you explain to me please. Can one interpret one's readings - is software available in that case. I am totally new to all this - still have to go to Vincents for talk on Apnia and meet with Supplier. Also is there a market in Renovated machines? I understand that Machine itself will not be prone to infection. Presumably the Masks/ Tubes/ Filters should be purchased new. Any advice please. Thanks

Masala · 03-02-2017 10:40am

Real Psycrow wrote: »

Sure. I'm using a Fisher Paykel. This is the model here. https://www.fphcare.com/homecare/sleep-apnea/cpap-devices/

Have they Irish rep??? I am being put on a BOC device which looks cumbersome

Real Psycrow · 03-02-2017 12:18pm

Masala wrote: »

Have they Irish rep??? I am being put on a BOC device which looks cumbersome

I don't know. It's BOC I deal with, so I got it through them

Masala · 03-02-2017 12:26pm

Real Psycrow wrote: »

I don't know. It's BOC I deal with, so I got it through them

Sorry ..... I should clarify!!! I am being referred to the BOC rep as it was a BOC machine I used in the Clinic

So... I could ask the rep to show me this Icon model as well as their own models??? My clinic are worried that they won't have tge software to run the Icon results. Would prefer the astectics of this Icon model than the BOC I used in the clinic.

As a matter of interest...did u buy outright?? Would u pm me the cost so as to be ahead of my Rep visit??

Many thanks

Real Psycrow · 03-02-2017 12:37pm

Masala wrote: »

Sorry ..... I should clarify!!! I am being referred to the BOC rep as it was a BOC machine I used in the Clinic

So... I could ask the rep to show me this Icon model as well as their own models??? My clinic are worried that they won't have tge software to run the Icon results. Would prefer the astectics of this Icon model than the BOC I used in the clinic.

As a matter of interest...did u buy outright?? Would u pm me the cost so as to be ahead of my Rep visit??

Many thanks

I never dealt with a rep. Just a nurse. I don't remember her giving me an option of machine either, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't ask.

I'm still renting. Its about €100 per month. Steep I know, but for that the nurse is on the end of the phone when I need her, I'm on my 3rd or 4th different type of mask and have had parts replaced on the machine. All included in that price. There is an option to buy the machine, but I'm going to wait until I'm comfortable with everything first before I do that as you lose the service when you stop renting and each new mask etc will have to be paid for. The CPAP is also covered under the Drugs Payment Scheme, so if you're already signed up to that, you'll be getting it for free.

As an example of something that came up months into the rental. I realised that the mask I was using had started to leave dents in my forehead as I sleep on my front. The nurse sent me out a new type of mask, but it didn't work for me. She then gave me another new type of mask that I'm using now. All this is part of the service.

Reputable Rog · 03-02-2017 12:47pm

I rent for €45.74 per month including one replacement mask per year. I use a nasal pillow and it is excellent.
Consultant switched me from full face to nasal last year having previously used full face for years, nurse at the time of diagnosis reckoned I was a mouth breather and unable to breath properly through my nose, but the consultant disagreed and changed me within minutes of meeting him.
Full face was causing problems including having to get a number of fillings and dry mouth, all these problems are gone, as well as no leakage.
Its also much quieter than the full face.
All these companies can be played off against another, I recommend behaving like a SKY customer and pressing the cancellation button every now and then.

Also on an aside LAYA will refund 50% up to a maximum of €300 in a given membership year.

Sleep Apnoea and CPAP

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