My First Night Using a CPAP

Yesterday, I got my CPAP (Continuous Positive Air Pressure) machine from a local medical supply store. While I had underwent a sleep study to determine proper fit and pressure that would be best for me, this store still made sure that the mask fit properly, and that I could deal with the pressure buildup rate that was set.

My prescription was for 15 cmwg (centimeters water gauge), relatively high in the normal band of 2 to 20 cmwg. My CPAP is adjustable, in five minute increments, for how long it takes to build up to the final pressure. I did well with the five minute buildup time, so will probably keep that setting.

Last night, I used the CPAP for the first time at home. My Dalmatian intiially freaked at the sight of me with that strange mask on, but she quickly got used to it, and settled into her normal spot on the bed.

Since I had used the CPAP at my sleep study last month, I felt fairly confident that I would not have problems last night. However, I was mistaken. In the first three hours, I woke up almost on the hour, feeling the pressure against my lips, and being aware that I dare not open my mouth with all that pressure inside. So, after 3 hours, I turned the machine off, and continued my nights sleep without it.

This reaction is not to be unexpected. The man who fit me for the machine told me that it may take a few nights to get comfortable with it, but to keep trying. So, I will start out again tonight using the CPAP, and go from there. I will update this in about a week to let you know if I ever got used to it or not.

Until next time,

Sleep well

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