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Permalink Reply by Gary on May 24, 2011 at 11:16pm

Thank you, Mary. I only have you and two others in my inner (Friend) circle.  I will spend time getting some additional contacts. In the meantime I will take your advice, and introduce my myself to the rest of the discussion group.

Right after the 2002 winter Olympics I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea. I took my condition seriously and embraced the treatment. Spent time learning about the illness and was properly (accurately) prescribed the right equipment and pressure settings and never slept without it. My wife was supportive and pretended that the so-called 'white-noise' didn't bother her. 

All was well and my health did a rapid 180. I stayed true to the cause until about 3 yrs ago. That's when I stopped travelling with my equipment and at home would occasionally forget to suit up and sleep without ‘protection.’ Pretty soon I was on target less than 50% of the time and then about 12 months ago I would use it less than a few times per month.

I know there must have been some treatment breakthroughs and improved equipment has surely occurred. I’m not a newbee, but I feel so out of touch with what’s current.  So I’m thinking of perhaps hanging around with you all and see if I can figure out where to start and what direction to go in.  Any help, criticism, advice on what to do, or where to go, will be greatly appreciated.  Especially some ways to get started and never fall off the wagon again.

 

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Permalink Reply by Mary Z on May 25, 2011 at 7:12am

Gary, it might be a good idea to have a new sleep study and get prescribed a new machine.  You can start with your family doctor and ask for a referral, or if your insurance allows go straight to a sleep doctor.  I'm glad you're back.  Good luck.

Mary Z.

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Permalink Reply by Chris H on May 25, 2011 at 6:49pm

Hi Gary, Their are new oral devices that might be easier to deal with traveling. Has your weight changed or any other medical condition come up since your stoppage? You probably need fresh mask and supplies may need a new RX to get unless you have been getting and not using? Do you have an awake chapter near you? We learn much at them. A visit to your sleep doc and gp to rule out changes and damage are a good start. You have taken the first step in keeping a trip to the ER at bay. Good Sleep,Chris

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Permalink Reply by sleepycarol on May 26, 2011 at 11:28pm

Hi Gary,

 

Which machine do you have currently?  Do you know your pressure settings?  What type of mask did you use? 

 

Machines have gotten more advanced today than in 2002.  Data is available on several models if you are interested in tracking your therapy (which we highly recommend).  Creature comfort items are nice to make things more comfortable -- such as humidifiers, hosy cozies, aromatherapy, etc. 

 

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Permalink Reply by RockRpsgt on May 27, 2011 at 10:03pm

Where have you been????

sleepycarol said:

Hi Gary,

 

Which machine do you have currently?  Do you know your pressure settings?  What type of mask did you use? 

 

Machines have gotten more advanced today than in 2002.  Data is available on several models if you are interested in tracking your therapy (which we highly recommend).  Creature comfort items are nice to make things more comfortable -- such as humidifiers, hosy cozies, aromatherapy, etc. 

 

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