[Symptoms] Do I really need CPAP?

[Carnal]

Interesting...

I had no symptoms, as far as I knew. Although sometimes I woke myself from snoring.

Since my 1st AFIB problem, a cardiologist wanted to rule out any possible causes or contributors to A-Fib & A-flutter.  So I did a the "wear the oxy measuring ring at home for one night" routine.  A few torturous weeks later. (delayed by insane CPAP provider people & their silly rules), the cardio office peeps call & said I had Severe Apnea.

So yes with barely no symptoms, this sneaky "low oxygen-at-night problem" can be slowly killing us and torturing our hearts.  

Brian

[Deborah K.]

Yes, please do update us!  We would certainly like to know how you are doing, whether you are using a pap machine, and which one.  If he determines that you do need one, please make sure he specifically orders you a ResMed 10 Autoset or a ResMed Aircurve 10 Vauto, whichever type you need.  Have him also write the prescription saying that no substitutions are allowed.  Some suppliers will substitute a cheaper machine, as they get paid the same for the cheaper machine as for the better one.

Best of luck with solving your problem in the right way.

[Mecate13]

Thanks.  
As I said earlier, I took the test after a huge holiday dinner, so I'm not sure about the results. 
I had an in-hospital test in 204 and moderate apnea was not found.

I'm 77 years old and I've read that treatement might be different for the elderly, which I must admitk I am,  so I'll see what the doctor I'm seeing in March thinjks.

Thanks again for your comment.

I'm 78 and started using the cpap in August.  It's been quite easy and has made a big  difference in how I feel.

[herbie]

Deborah,
 Thanks. I will certainly keep this great group updated.  
Ed

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Thanks,
 It's good to hear success.

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Thanks,
 Good to hear you're doing well.
Ed

[SeePak]

Hi Herbie.

I am wondering if you are a purposeful nasal breather?

In other words, you are aware of how this is important AND you consciously check that you nose breathe during rest, and exercise.

I believe that with the exercise you get, you are able to repair your body etc. of any ill effects of the sleep apnea.

Like others are also suggesting, issues could take awhile to surface.

I too have been trying to STOP using CPAP, after 35 + years.

I feel i have come close, but need to tighten up some things that can cause me to get bad sleep, with or without apnea.

Eating too close to bedtime, drinking coffee later in day, TV and computer or phone before bed, in other words Sleep Hygiene.

These factors have an effect on getting and staying asleep.

The more of these issues you avoid, the less problems you will have. Thats my experience for sure !!

I wonder about nasal breathing, sleep hygiene, exercise and also, pulse oximeter. Invaluable for keeping you informed about the CO2/Oxygen efficiency in your body.

Being a smoker can for sure cause issues later in age, i have quit for 15+ years now, so far OK.

You could be in the same boat, good or bad.

I suspect you are going to be fine, and if you can do some orofunctional exercises to strengthen any muscle weaknesses you may have in your airway functioning, your need for CPAP will lessen, though with more testing you will know for sure which way to go.

Please stay tuned on this site, there is so much discussion and information to be aware of.
Plus you can contribute so much of your own personal experience, which you are already doing !

And you have company here, as far as a lot of your thoughts pro-activeness and resolve !

Welcome and look forward to hearing and sharing with you here on Apnea Board!

[herbie]

Thanks so much for your reply. 
I appreciate the great support from everyone on this board.

I will report back in March with a report about the sleep doctor I am seeing in March.

Thanks again.

[SarcasticDave94]

Just my opinion, I'd call the doctor to see if you can't be seen sooner. Your choice of course.

[herbie]

Good suggestion. 
so far March 6th is the only date.
But I am on a waiting list for any cancellations.

I'll keep the board posted after my meeting.