noob

[kriegar]

hi everybody i've just got my cpap machine, can't remember the model beyond it being a resumed with reactive pressure, i'm having a lot of difficulty using it, mainly i can't relax into a normal automatic (for want of a better phrase) breathing, i was wondering if anyone had any tips to help i've been considering taking sleeping tablets.


Kriegar.

[James @ Intus]

Hi and welcome to the forums!

If it's a modern ResMed machine, check whether they turned on the EPR function, it stands for Exhalation Pressure Relief. Also check on the ramping, this eases you into it by starting at a lower pressure and slowly ramping up.

These two functions really help making it more comfortable for you.

Be careful with sleeping tablets as some can aggrevate sleep apnoea by relaxing the muscles.

[kriegar]

are they any other asthmatics out there? If so do you feel short of breath when trying to use your machines too?

Kriegar

[Sleep2Snore]

are they any other asthmatics out there? If so do you feel short of breath when trying to use your machines too?

Kriegar

Are you sure this is not dryness after using the machine for a while during the night. I used to waken up and found I could hardly breath due to dryness, and then sneezing for ages in the morning.
If this is what you are finding, you will need a humidifier if you have not got one already.

[chelseauk]

hi

If you REALLY struggle and ramping etc doesn't work - you could try to turn the machine right down (Ie get into the machines menu and lower the max setting) - get used to it - turn it up get used to it...... and so on.

[kriegar]

do you meen a humidifier in the room or built into the cpap machine?

[Sleep2Snore]

do you meen a humidifier in the room or built into the cpap machine?

Depending on the machine you have it may have various options for a humidifier.
An external heated humidifier will work with nearly all machines, but you will need a small hose to connect it to the machine.
Contact the Sleep Clinic and explain what is happening to you.
If when you start the CPAP you can breath OK, then after using the CPAP for a while, and you wake up struggling for breath, it will almost certainly be due to dryness.

If you got the machine from the NHS, contact them and talk to the Sleep Nurse and they will give you a humidifier (I hope).