By Way Of Introduction... General Rookie Questions

[Michale32086]

We tend to like one thread it’s easier to scroll back and find things you have tried in one long thread

Roger that..

If a Mod/Admin would be so kind... 

[Crimson Nape]

Moderator Note:
In order to maintain continuity, the thread, "My CPAP Travels. Day 3" has been merged with this thread, "By Way Of Introduction... General Rookie Questions".


.  .  .You may resume typing at normal speed.

[DarciWantsToSleep]

Hi there. 

I’m sorry that this process has been so dreadful. 

I am also severely claustrophobic. If I put on a full face mask I feel like I am choking and I wake up in a panic and gagging. So when you do get your machine, try nasal pillows. They are the least intrusive and easy to pull off your face if needed. You can also just open your mouth the breathe if you feel like you are gasping in panic. 

Some other advice. Get into your bead and wait for your breath to calm. Then put your mask on and gently start breathing. Now breathe with the machine, not against it. It is like meditating. 

The first few weeks after I had my CPAP I would put my mask on and listen to a audiobook to help to keep me calm. I also downloaded an app called Calm on my phone which has bedtime stories (for adults) and also guided meditations. It’s pretty great and I still use it. 

Just try to relax. Tell yourself that you are safe and in your bed. And it’s ok to take your mask off for a few minutes to calm yourself down. 

Also, if you have a headboard, throw your hose over the top of it so you don’t feel strangled and get wrapped up in it. 

Best of luck.

[70sSanO]

Wearing a soft cervical collar can really make a difference getting rid of clusters. I’ve been wearing one for over 5 years. You need to try one.

Back then I used Rescan. There is nothing more terrifying than a sea of red streaks looking like a downtown skyline with numbers like 50, 70, even 80 (seconds) over them. Once your chin goes down it ain’t coming back until you have to gasp.

John