need some advice

[shelley123]

He fellow CPAP users, I really need to advice.

For some reason a few weeks back I started taking off my mask at various points during the night and switching my CPAP off. I informed the sleep clinic who increased the pressure from 12 to 16. They thought that the pressure was not strong enough at times so I was sub-consciously taking the mask off. I go to sleep really easily with the mask - the pressure doesn't bother me but I am still taking off the mask. I have even put the machine on the floor - now I take the mask off but don't turn the machine off lol. I really want this to work as I feel so fantastic after sleeping with CPAP. I honestly don't know I am doing it and when I awake during the night or my husband wakes me to tell me I've taken it off I put it back on but it seems that every two hours I am doing it again.

Has anyone else done this or does anyone have any advice please?

Thanks for reading xxx

[joeandhelen]

HI Shelley!
I do not suffer this problem and I am also new to using a CPAP. I do have a suggestion though. Your subconscious is telling you that the mask is not comfortable and indeed crying out "What the x@*# is this on my face?". May I suggest you wear your mask during the day when at home so it becomes a normal addition to your face maybe while watching TV or reading. Although I am only new to this, I am a psychologist. Remember, it is your subconscious that keeps you alive. It breaths for you, digests for you and drives our cars while we are chatting to our passengers about shopping or sports etc...
Try it and see. If it doesn't work you may need a less obtrusive mask. Are you claustraphobic? Does your mask cover your mouth and nose or just your nose? I have one just for my nostrils and is much less obtrusive. Though it does fall out sometimes.
Let me know how you get on and I hope this helps, however, do contact your apnea nurse if these episodes continue.
Good Luck,
Joe