does anyone else have problems due to claustrfobia!!

[cheryl4andy]

One of the problems apart from the usually leaks etc is that im claustrofobic i sometimes have panic attacks at night.i couldnt sleep last night at all. any tips on how to overcome this x

[ElleCee]

Hi Cheryl,
I know exactly where you are coming from. It would be so easy to let yourself feel that way.
I have had to take a breath each time for a week or so to calm myself before putting on the mask.
You can do it, and you need to get your head into the right zone. Think of something else as you put it on.
You could pretend you are are about to fly in one of those VTOL planes that the airforce use. I am sure there is a name for them!
You could think of a nice holiday somewhere hot and dry!
Just do anything to stop yourself getting into even a small panic.
You could even try wearing just the mask during the day (When at home of course, I don't advise shopping in M&S with it on!) so that you can get used to it before bedtime and before attaching it to the machine.
Lots of luck.
Lorraine

[cheryl4andy]

i try and hold it to my face for a while before fixing it on,i think i could do with a smaller mask tho,ive got hosp tmoro so ill see what they say!!! i do suffer from panick attacks before this, i dont like small enclosed spaces LOL its a lot to get used to, mind you i did try and sleep without it and couldnt.so it must be workin. How long does it take for you to feel great tho. xxx