Newbie - Sleep Apnea
Hello All,
I was just diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea last week.
I was wondering how long it takes to adjust and get used to wearing
your CPAP unit as well as how long it takes to start feeling some
sign of relief? Last night I went to bed with my unit and woke up
several times with it laying next to me in bed. I know that relief
doesn’t happen over night but I am hoping that I won’t continue to
find it next to me in bed.
Also, I am wondering if this hinders my chances of having WLS? The
initial consult the pulmonary specialist was talking about removing
my tonsils. Is this actually necessary? I was a little on edge
being that this was just a consult and I hadn’t even taking home the
machine for the study.
Any advice is appreciated.
Thanks,
Tamera
March 28th, 2004 at 12:23 am
Hi Tameria — I have been on CPAP for about 3 years, currently on 12 cms. Prior
to the CPAP I was sleeping in a recliner (for 7 years actually). I was able to
go directly to my bed with the CPAP but could only last about 3 hours before I
had terrible back spasms. Sleeping in the recliner as long as I did it shortened
my groin muscles and lengthened my behind muscles so when I laid down the
unbalanced muscles pulled my spine. Anyway, I was in physician therapy for
several months and found little bit by little bit I slept better and did better
with the CPAP. I think in about 2-3 months I was totally sleeping through the
night. Are you tightening the straps too tight. I did this when I first got my
mask. It does not need to be TIGHT. Also what kind of mask do you have? I went
through a few before I found one I really like, it is the “Mirage”. Needing
CPAP will actually help you get approved for WLS. Most insurances companies want
at least 2 serious medical conditions in addition to a BMI
approve WLS. Tonsils, my pulmonary doc actually told me they have had little
success with surgery as a correction for sleep apnea — really need CPAP then
weight loss. Good luck. Cindy W
March 29th, 2004 at 12:59 pm
Hi,
My name is Missie, I am currently awaiting WLS surgery and maybe i can give
you some info. My mother had WLS 2 years ago. At that time she had severe
sleep apnea with her water pressure at 13. Before that she had had some kind
of throut surgery to help and it did nothing but cause pain. On the other
hand, since WLS she has lost 100 lbs and went from 13 pressure to 7. If she
could loose some more weight it may go away all together. Sleep apnea is
what may get your insurance to approve you for WLS. It is actually good
amunition for approval. Keep seeking surgery because that will help your
apnea more than anything!
Missie