What are
/r/SleepApnea's
favorite Products & Services?
From 3.5 billion Reddit comments
The most popular Products mentioned in /r/SleepApnea:
The most popular Services mentioned in /r/SleepApnea:
Mayo Clinic
Sci-Hub
WebMD
Screencast.com
OfferUp
HuffPost
SourceForge
Jet.com
wikiHow
ResearchGate
ImgBB
Healthcare.gov
The most popular Android Apps mentioned in /r/SleepApnea:
Sleep as Android
Twilight
Lux Auto Brightness
Snoring Analyzer
File Explorer (Plus Add-On)
Atmosphere: Relaxing Sounds
Alarm Clock Xtreme + Free Sleep Tracker and Timer
The most popular reviews in /r/SleepApnea:
You want to use Sleepyhead for detailed analysis. You can put an SD card in the ResMed it will write detailed info to it, then put that SD card in your computer to get the data off and into Sleepyhead.
I use this sweet wireless SD card that just appears on my network now, so from my computer I can just connect to it and copy the files.
Was a little tricky to get working, but very nice once I did.
Very risky. I believe that untreated sleep apnea contributed to my father's death at age 65 and mental deterioration (he too snored really bad). My index is 24 and I can tell you that's enough to mess up your life.
Here's some info: If left untreated, sleep apnea can result in a growing number of health problems, including: High blood pressure. Stroke. Heart failure, irregular heart beats, and heart attacks. Diabetes. Depression. Worsening of ADHD. Headaches. What Is Sleep Apnea? Causes, Risk Factors, and Effects - WebMD https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/sleep-apnea
I have a full face mask and I'm a side sleeper - I feel your pain. I bought a pillow similar to this one:
It's not perfect but it does help! It was definitely worth the $50 or whatever I paid for it.
OK so this comes up all the time, please don't get grifted into getting a "CPAP" battery bank for twice what a standard battery bank costs like others are recommending.
I do recommend a battery bank vs your car battery because I don't want you to drain your battery over night, though.
This one works well and will last you up to two nights IME, and it's configurable as 12v or 24v so it will work with Resmed as well if you get a different machine down the road. Ideally you want to run it without the humidifier or it will drain a lot faster. Look into passive humidifiers -- basically just a little sponge that you soak with water that goes in line with the hose, people use them with those small travel CPAPs on airplanes.
If you do decide to use your car power, you don't need a Philips specific adapter, look for a universal 12 volt adapter, which will have multiple tips like the unit I linked above. You just need to know the polarity, which is on the back of your unit.
Then, of course they are garbage and do nothing.
I got this battery pack off Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M3S00H0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pretty small in size and works well for an overnight camping trip with no humidifier.
I'm a bit weary of a source that is trying to sell their own product at $8/oz.
I tried to track down the original source of the dermatologist saying Vaseline was bad. This is the best I could find, which is about putting it up your nose, and he says you shouldn't do it with any lipid (including emu oil, I'd assume).
Maybe I'm missing something though.
Agree to speak to your dr about all this stat. I feel like I could give some pointers on dry eyes.. I have the same issue. I use systane nighttime gel
Systane Nighttime Lubricant Eye Ointment 3.50 g (Pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004RSQGWC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YH876CTYX9A9N3PS4W4E
I put the gel in right before I turn on my cpap and I use a sleep mask (I know this seems dramatic lol.. but it’s so helpful). I also use eye drops in the morning and throughout the day as needed. The below eyelid scrub pads are helpful cleaning my eyes each morning after using the gel.
OCuSOFT Lid Scrub Original, Pre-Moistened Pads, 30 Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000PY15I2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_M07TK7V9V9PY23GDRFG8
In addition to talking to your sleep dr/pulmonologist/gp ASAP about your symptoms, think about going to therapy because a lot of what you describe sounds like it could be anxiety (above and beyond actual cpap issue) and you just can’t imagine how helpful it is to talk to someone about your fears and concerns, especially being a dad. Do it for your kiddos!
Sorry for the loss of your sister. Just to be clear, we are talking about full AASM arousals, not micro arousals. It’s nice that you are trying to help people. However, I think it’s important to understand that this advice could potentially hurt people because it could lead to a false negative for a devastating condition. Much better diagnostic accuracy can be achieved with watchPAT, which is cheap, easy, and clinically validated.
Stupid question, but we need to start somewhere, does the sd card is unlocked ?
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Write-Protection-on-an-SD-Card
Can you try to place another sd card in the machine ?
If it keeps it updated, the issue would come of your previous sd card.
> This shows that you're not really up-to-date on his published research. For now, this is as good as you'll get towards what you want. Pay attention to figure 4 and table
That is the exact study that is being criticized - they show images of a widened palate and say "An example of midfacial development in one of the subjects that participated in this study: (A) Pretreatment presentation, (B) the progress of midfacial development, (C) The outcome in this particular example, in which the palatal bone width appears to have increased" Widening of the palate is NOT midfacial development. Also, their volumetric CBCT only shows the dentoalveolar area, not the entire maxilla. The maxilla extends all the way up to the nasal bones and zygomatic buttresses. Showing simple coronal and axial slices of the maxilla and nasal cavity like literally everyone else would've dispelled doubt, but of course they don't.
> Mechanical approaches? Probably going to fail. "Functional" ones
Don't forget pneumopedic and biomimetic!
> Here's a study they did in Brazil years ago - it is not "DNA" - with a slow functional appliance. They got expansion in the maxilla, mandible ... and the zygomatic arches were about 2mm further apart in space from each other.
Cool, except a newer and much higher quality study from UPenn published in a much more reputable journal with 5x as many participants was unable to replicate that finding.
for real literally every expander has studies that parade around images like this or superimposed CBCT, but the DNA people just show a wider palate and say wow! midface expansion! even though its well known you can expand the dental arches significantly without moving the maxilla one bit. (fig 7)
A hose lifter (like this one) will help a lot. It’s somewhat dependent on your mask’s design, but it works well with most masks.
This looks very interesting, thanks for posting about it.
How do you think it compares with the Wellue O2ring?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08HDGBF7P/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Or the CMS50D-BT, which is a very inexpensive device, but people say it is very accurate and integrates with OSCAR
This filter appears to be compatible https://www.amazon.com/Nispira-line-Outlet-Bacteria-Filter/dp/B07FPSZCVB/ check the comments, as it depends which machine you have, but looks like it'll work fine with Dreamstation.
I switched from a mouth guard to mouth taping and I found it works much better.
Additionally, my teeth have been slowly moving back to where they were before.
I just got an O2Ring and am very happy with it: https://www.amazon.com/Wellue-Wireless-Wearable-Bluetooth-Reminder/dp/B08TWPC2MJ
It's tiny and comfortable, more comfortable than the usual duckbill fingertip clamp. The UI is great; you just put it on at night and it automatically records, then download the next day to your phone or desktop computer. I haven't carefully measured accuracy but the results seem plausible to me.
One thing to check is how often they record; for sleep apnea you want something that measures frequently. Some monitors show you an average value over a minute or so, which is not so useful for detecting breathing events on the scale of 15 seconds. The O2Ring records every 4 seconds.
Yes, in my case I was having issues because I'm a mouthbreather, I'm using one like this, maybe you should give it a try
It's the time of year this happens (spring, allergies, etc.). What is the general humidity level in your room? If possible, get a humidifier to add more moisture - that will give you some relief.
In regard to your CPAP, I assume you have it on auto - my recommendation is to take it off auto and set it on 5 and see if it helps (default setting is 4). And, adjust your tube temperature to around 82 (80 is the default).
If it doesn't help, go to 6. The challenge you'll face is it will take more than one night to heal dry nostrils. You may notice your comfort level gets better, but they'll still be sore for several days. I recommend trying some of this to help - you can also get it at Walmart or a local store.
You might also want to try a soft cervical collar. I tried chin straps of various flavors and none of them were totally effective at keeping my mouth closed. None were especially comfortable either. The collar on the other hand was really effective and not horrible to get used to. It's more of a "keep jaw from falling down" action, rather than a "keep jaw pulled up" force. The pull up force also made me feel like my jaw was being pulled backwards too.
Here's the collar I'm using: https://www.amazon.com/Caldera-Releaf%C2%AE-Neck-Rest-Large/dp/B0027CU1QM/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=Caldera+Releaf+Neck+rest&qid=1610060825&sr=8-5
Good luck!
The easiest and the first step to see if you have a problem is periodic breathing causes a dip in your oxygen..
Buy this device and wear it for a few nights download the app that goes with it and see if you're dipping.. if you are dipping below 90 with an increased incident of high heart rate , then the odds are as you do have a sleeping issue.. from there you could tell your doctor and show him the results and this will get you a sleep study.
If you're incapable of waiting for a sleep study or wanting a sleep study and your oxygen is dipping far enough to warrant health problems. Then there is the DIY a pap approach of using a ResMed AirSense 10 auto set which you can buy online for around 700 new 500 used from a website or 300 on craigslist.. all of the settings are able to be set up in the clinic menu Google how to get into it and then use Oscar sleep software to analyze your night's sleep to see what the machine has been doing as well as if there's any complications because the APAP machine is not made for people who have complicated central sleep apnea..
I have to do the DIY approach as well as going to a sleep study.. I do not regret anything that I've done.
I am a big guy not really fat just kind of like a hard swollen stomach from doing too much steroids and I have to be particularly careful of not sleeping on my back as well as not falling off my pillow when sleeping on my side causing my chin to hit my chest.. if I do I will go into a breathing pattern where I hold my breath off and on until I wake up and fix it even with my machine..
Good luck to you and let me know if you have any questions like I said if you have a doctor it's easiest to go that route with insurance
Xylimelts. There's other similar products, mouth washes, lozenges... Xylimelts is the only one that's worked for me. Amazon link if you can't find them local anywhere
Ooh also the Burt's Bees Ultra Conditioning in the white packaging. Lasts all night without wearing off
I would try gorilla tape. I recommend against any toxic glues you will end up inhaling...
Amazon has new hoses for $30 (assuming you want the heated model). Regular hoses are about $10.
ResMed ClimateLine Heated Tubing by ResMed
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IQ9AOFC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yIudDbE4Q2494
They have cloth liners for the mask cushions. I know that my face gets sweaty, and causes some irritation occasionally. It hasn't been enough of a problem for me yet to buy some to try out. Here's a link to what I have seen:
https://www.amazon.com/CPAP-Mask-Liners-Reusable-Comfort/dp/B01MTXXI2B
Always see a doctor! And always follow up on your own, because doctors don't give a shit about sleep apnea.
Using CPAP isn't 100% harmless. Look into Complex Sleep Apnea...
>Complex sleep apnea. Some people with obstructive sleep apnea develop central sleep apnea while using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for their sleep apnea treatment. This condition is known as complex sleep apnea because it's a combination of obstructive and central sleep apneas.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/central-sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352109
Central sleep apnea is terrifying and even if there's a remote chance that CPAP can cause it, you don't want to mess around with it.
However, not treating obstructive sleep apena is also a really bad idea! This is why you want to get a sleep study. You don't want to guess, you should find out what the minimum effective CPAP setting is.
CPAP use is considered safe by the NIH and any side effects are typically minor. However, if you are experiencing side effects from CPAP use that are impacting your sleep then it is best to consult your doctor. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/node/4248
Here are some suggestions from Mayo Clinic for common issues with CPAP. Gagging might fall under their 'Difficulty tolerating force air' header. They suggest using the ramp feature of your machine if it has one, or talking to your doctor about a device that actively adjusts the pressure to better match your natural breathing pattern: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/in-depth/cpap/art-20044164
Not nearly as much as it does with RLS, but there's some correlation to the point where one instance ended up on the news. This is the first result I found when looking for actual studies, though.
Hopefully yours is under control, because sleep disorders can be hell!
Tape is a little brutal to me, like if you legit need to sneeze or speak or something it sucks, I use this head band chin strap thing that works well: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TXWHKMZ, not available anymore apparently, but I'm sure there are similar things out there.
As far as Afib goes: 🤷🏻♂️? Probably not. Don’t smoke, don’t drink, do some cardio, and maybe get an Apple Watch for surveillance.
I had some very, very frequent ectopic heartbeats back before I got my sleep apnea treated. Try taking some Magnesium before bed, it helps calm your heart and will make it easier to fall asleep. I take it every night.
I have one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08GG9L2SL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_WRVN86K1HD37HQ0QXT65
I can use it for a couple of days with the humidifier off without recharging. You can use your car to recharge it, but I just use one of these solar panels to top it off during the day. There are smaller fold up ones, but this one is pretty cheap:
I’ve used it as a backup battery during storms before as well, it’s a really handy thing to have.
I use this battery plus the 12V cord for my CPAP. The charge only drops about 15-18% a night. Whatever you end up getting, make sure to try it out at home first.
I use this battery plus the 12V cord for my CPAP. The charge only drops about 15-18% a night.
>If you have a phillips machine you just need a deep cycle battery (30ah or more) and the 12 adapter that they sell (along with the cables and connectors). I have one and used it a few months ago when we lost power, it saved my bacon.
Do you think that something like the Mophie AC PowerStation that is meant for charging laptops would work? I have a Dream Station GO. Mophie Product description says that its 100W output with 22,000mAh battery (i think this is only 22ah).
I need to get a battery for a two night car camping trip. I can recharge the battery during the day. I just wont be near power when I sleep. I don't want to buy the one phillips makes because I want something i can use other than with my portable cpap machine. Having a battery pack that can charge my laptop like this would be useful for my every day use.
Any thoughts on this would be appreciated
I had to do a diy APAP approach to treat my sleep apnea prior to my sleep study.
Will see if your sp02 is dipping below 90 or so prior to arousals with a Increased heart rate.
Save all the packaging and return it if need be.
Then download Oscar sleep software
And buy this machine
You can find them on local fb marketplace and offer up and craigslist or buy from the link new or used without prescription.
Then read up on how to enter clinic menu and set machine to standard Apap settings for your body size and lung volume. This machine will not treat central apnea but you will need to use Oscar sleep software to find that out.
The sp02 watch will not show if you have rera breathing related awakenings or uars breathing..
There are home apnea test watches also you can try for about 200 bucks non returnable.
Apap machine is relatively very safe unless you have COPD or some other lung issues. Insurance companies like Kaiser Permanente hand out this APAP machine to its customers as a first line to see if they have sleep apnea after doing the home apnea test.
You will need to decide if you are a nose or mouth breather and buy a mask accordingly I prefer the Swift FX nasal pillow system. If you're a capable you could also use 3M 1-in tape and use it on your mouth.
Lots of people have tried this DIY approach and failed just because it could not sleep with the machine and you will have to find that out for yourself.
Good luck
Does your mask have the tube coming from above or below? I use p10 nasal and the hose comes from below this works well https://www.amazon.com/North-American-Healthcare-JB5651-Holder/dp/B0034CHMRU/
If your hose goes over the top of your head something that clips on the headboard is good
For around $10 you can just switch it out for a nasal cushion. Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal Cushion (Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CLE3DRY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_5QJ58Q982HZPT2NK882X
Your welcome bro. I bet you're not getting out of stage 3 sleep . Lots of people don't feel refreshed if they're not completing stage 4.
Here is watch .. if you need to just buy it and return it.. this watch will track by the second your complete night sleep
Let me send you a link of the type we used at my work that the patients always liked. Ok I found one like it
Kӧlbs Bed Wedge Pillow with Memory Foam Top | Sty... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082XKFYLJ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_glt_fabc_W4FSTZMA8F3TGDKC6368?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
After 2 years I still hate mine. I suck it up though, otherwise I don't get any sleep.
Ramp should be off as others have said.
I think it took me a good 6 months to get used to it.
Try a pillow like this, it helps. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B084R77J83/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
There are many moisturizers to use. It solved the same problem for me. I also rotate through various masks, about 1 week at a time so one skin zone is not constantly in contact. NEVER use vaseline!
There are now so many, I cannot recommend any one. Buy a tiny amount - a small bit is all that is needed to slick-up the area.
https://www.amazon.com/RespLabs-Petroleum-Moisturizer-Designed-Breakdown/dp/B01IOE876W?th=1
The trick is to get an empty nasacort bottle or something like this
Empty Amber Glass Nasal Sprayer 2-Pack for Intranasal Insulin, Colloidal Silver and Saline Applications, 30ml (1oz) -dispenses .1 ml = 10 IU https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JZ29SQ6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_i_QPNaGbTABY097?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Then, the tricky part is getting the afrin out of your bottle. I just take a 22g needle attached to a syringe, puncture the side of the bottle, and pull out what I need. Then I tape the small hole.
Put in new bottle, then pull out the amount of distilled water you would need and deposit in the new bottle. Shake well and you're done.
Press the knob and the home button at same time, it will take you to the advanced setting. There is a youtube channel somewhere that showed it. To get to advanced settings.
I was having difficulty using CPAP for 3 years until I started using the AirTouch N20 Nasal Cpap (probably there is a mouth one but not sure). I also have to use a blanket to cover the hose because the hose has to keep it's air temperature stable or else the nose area gets wet (humidity and air dynamics). Explanation is in youtube channel I saw some time ago.
here is the hose:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B074Q73ZJ2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
I'm sleeping very well now, and I don't have any red areas. I used to get red areas on skin because I have sensitive skin type and I'd fix it up with coconut cream. It's very good at healing. I always use it when I get a red rash when I used to wear the old masks.
I can tell you one thing, there are different strokes for different folks and something is bound to work.
Don't buy the AirTouch N20, without buying the hose because the hose makes the air temperature with hot water stable (humidity stable) and when it gets near your nose the temperature changes because there is no hose and colder air releases humidity making your nose wet and the Air Touch N20 cushions wet.
I'm fussy sleeper but this saved me.
Buy this and set it up before the night you are going to use it.. this will track your oxygen level by the second as well as heart rate.
If your oxygen is dipping and you have an increased heart rate the odds are is you have sleep apnea.
other things could be wrong with your sleep such as you're not getting your sleep cycle properly.
You need to get four or five of them perfectly all night to feel recuperative.. if you get aroused by something then once in a while you start back over at stage one or two. Never getting the stage 4.
If you do have sleep apnea odds are as you also have low testosterone because you only make testosterone when you're sleeping properly So hopefully you can get this figured out and that will give you some good energy as well.
After you order the watch from Amazon use it for about a week and you'll get a good idea of what's going on with your oxygen level while sleeping. Sleep in all your favorite positions as well as not .. especially back sleep.
Let me know after you get the watch. From there you can share the data with your PCP and get yourself a sleep study or some hospitals like Kaiser given apap machine after a home study.
Good luck
You sound just like myself when I first had sleep apnea that was driving me crazy..
The only thing they did for me at the ER was give me a Benadryl shot..
Buy this device from Amazon and see if your oxygen is dipping coinciding with an increased heart rate prior to an arousal.. https://www.amazon.com/BodiMetrics-Vibe-Sleep-Fitness-Monitor/dp/B01N6FUNNG/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=02+vibe&qid=1604419762&sr=8-3
You could let your doctor know the results..
You can also return it if you want to afterwards
if you can't wait for your doctor to get you into a sleep study the next thing to do is look at the DIY ResMed AirSense 10 setup you can buy one on craigslist right now and go to sleep with it safely tonight.. if this is something that interests you let me know.
Try this so it can record sp02 all night.
Return it afterwards if need be..
Trt made my existing untreated sleep apnea unbearable.. Google sexual hormones and periodic breathing
I got a apap machine from Craigslist and set it up properly .. used Oscar sleep software.. no regrets. If you need help lmk
- Plug a lamp into the socket and verify that there's power at the outlet.
- Unplug the power supply from the unit and plug it into the wall. Verify if the light is on or off.
If there is power at the wall but the light doesn't go green then it's likely the power supply. If the light is green when unplugged from the main unit, it's likely an electrical fault in the main unit.
The a compatible power supply unit is available for ~$75 through the Amazon Market. No clue how much Crapria will try to change for an OEM replacment.
Yup, I did exactly this and confirmed my suspicions like you. Amazon carries a wrist worn watch like SPo2 (pulse oximeter) sensor that records so you can wear it overnight and see the results by connecting it to your computer. In fact, if that is too expensive, you can try it and send it back to Amazon because they have a very good return policy. However, since I did end up with sleep apnea, the device actually helps me check that my cpap therapy is indeed working, so I kept it, and it also works well with the Sleepyhead software cpap machines can work with.
Its not a definitive diagnosis even if your oxygen levels turn out to be fine (basically not dipping below 88% for multiple periods), because sleep apnea also disrupts your sleep and REM cycles, even if your oxygen level is not suffering, which is harmful to you and you want to correct. But, if it is dropping then you will want to follow up and even bring a print out of the oxygen report to a doctor to get a definitive answer and start treatment.
Here is a link to the sensor I used on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Contec-Wrist-worn-Oximeter-Software-Download/dp/B00LN4LCMC
I purchased one of these CPAP battery backups on Amazon and use it for camping. One charge gets me at least 3 nights. No humidifier or hose heater attached.
Freedom CPAP Battery Standard Kit - Number 1 Most Advanced, Longest Lasting CPAP Battery https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01H637L82/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_FMAqBbBQ4HE7A
Oh neat, I didn't realize there were CPAP pillows, I just did some Amazon research and fast shipped this one:
Thanks for the idea!
I have positional apnea issues and must avoid backsleeping..
This device works fine so far
Highly recommend get sof cloth for straps. I wrap them around straps and stopped getting acne. Someone on here recommended this:
Is great
Not sure I can answer your questions, but I have a mouthpiece as a backup. It's nowhere near as good as a CPAP but it does help a little. Here's the one I got:
Your doctor is an idiot and should not be in practice. There's no way to determine if someone does or does not have sleep apnea from their BMI. Seriously, document what he said and what symptoms you told him about so if you die your family can sue him for malpractice. (I'm not kidding. Write it down, print it out, sign it, and leave it in the open where it will be found.) When this is all over I recommend you consider filing a complaint with his clinic or taking legal action, but first it's important to deal with your problem.
You are having extremely severe symptoms. If you again wake up with vision and/or hearing not working, go to the emergency room. Don't wait, don't write it off as "I'll take care of this soon," go directly to the emergency room. Tell them about the symptoms you've been having. Don't tell them what your doctor said (just to not confuse them), just "he didn't take my symptoms seriously." Let them ensure you are alive and you can see and hear in the future. Don't be surprised if they admit you so they can put you on their CPAP until you get your own.
Get a new doctor right away. If you're in America, call your insurance company and tell them that you want a new primary care physician who isn't at that practice.
If you can pay out of pocket you can go to this web site right now and they will do a prescription without a test. You can also pay out of pocket for a sleep test but you should be aware that they will want you to buy a machine out of pocket afterward. You can get a used machine without prescription from craigslist, but I recommend that you either get a prescription first or get an auto machine so you can set it to a nice wide range because you don't know what good settings for you are. If you do that, get a sleep study anyway so you can know if you need some other kind of machine or other help.
Skull Cap - https://www.amazon.com/Headshion-Skull-Cap-Multifunctional-Headwear/dp/B07P1FXRYV/
Been working well for me...
If the one you ordered doesn't work, this is one I use. It's better than the other 3 I tried before it, and it's lasted a long time. I don't know that any of them are the be-all end-all, but they do help.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005HYTVEK/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
I don't have an advice for you but I can recommend this app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cannalife which puts all medical resources of cannabis studies together, as well as allows community members to share their story and what worked for them. Good luck.
While everyone here is right, you should find another doctor, I will answer your question. This is a wonderful app that I used before I got diagnosed. SnoreLab
Amazon — there are basically 2 styles.. you’ll see a resmed strap that is very simplistic (I ordered that one and then I ordered this cafe fusion brand one which is what I wore last night)
CareFusion Ruby Stop Snoring Chin... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005HYTVEK?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
ResMed CPAP Chin Strap https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N44IL1O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_2hyJBbM3P7VF7
The recommendations to improve breathing through your nose make a lot of sense. I've been facing similar issues and have made some incremental progress. If you have a deviated septum, then most likely the long term solution is surgery, so seeing and ENT is the first step. There are a few other things that might help:
Use a nasal rinse. The products from NeilMed work well and are easy to use.
Try using Breathe Right stips (or any of the generics).
Raise your head slightly when sleeping via raising the bed frame with blocks, using a wedge pillow, or an adjustable bed. If using pillows, be careful not to make the situation worse by pushing your chin towards your chest.
Ask your doc (primary or sleep) about medications like Fluticasone (OTC is Flonase but it may be more expensive than the Rx version) or Azelastine (Rx only).
Try nose vents. Here's an assortment: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSWZW0U/
Buy an auto-adjusting CPAP and try it out
In terms of getting on CPAP, this may be a gray area for insurance coverage. AHI and O2 saturation are the most common measures and the bar is usually set at AHI<5 and/or O2<88-90. If your insurance uses RDI, you might qualify. Your insurance people should be able to tell you the specifics if you call them. As UARS is a relatively new diagnosis, it may be difficult to get coverage. You might want to look into the more complete overnight in-lab study.
Ibuprofen / acetaminophen shouldn’t, no. Those are anti-inflammatory and shouldn’t cause problems, to my knowledge.
There are pillows like these that allow you to sleep on your back at an angle. You can just elevate your head and neck, it doesn’t have to be your whole body. Some people use lots of pillows, others prop up the legs of their bed by their head with phone books underneath it.
As for allergies, that type of inflammation can also impact sleep apnea, but honestly, given your context, it sounds more like the change in your sleeping position and potentially the meds
I recently switched to a full face mask (because of a dental issue) after years of using a nasal mask.
Here is my chin strap of choice: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08G8Y7PP6?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
I used it not just as a chin strap but sort of hoisted it up over my mouth to cover it. (also because of my dumb dental issue.) Eventually that didn't work enough and I transitioned to the FFM. But it's a great chin strap and I really like it.
Bike ride to get workout and save your knees. Also if cpap does not work sleep on a bed wedge. Link here on Amazon. Also use a humidifier it will help you breathe better.
Milliard Bed Wedge Mattress Topper with Memory Foam Top, Incline Mattress Elevator Base, 7.5 Inch with Washable Cover (Twin) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FKJDNN3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_hyEzOcpBW1xmg
As the other comment said, if you go to a lot of festivals, $200 isn't that much of an investment.
Reading reviews, this battery paired with a DC cord like this for your machine will be your best bet. A couple reviews mention 6 nights of use on a full charge, which is pretty great for the price.
You're going to get the best efficiency, and thus the longest runtime, if you stick to DC power, like the DC power cord I linked. Using an inverter to go to AC, which your machine will just convert back to DC, really eats into the runtime.
Hope it works out for you!
Watches and fitbit type devices are out there, but they are mostly just toys and not accurate or usable for sleep apnea purposes. If your concern is sleep apnea, or medical level accuracy, you can get a recording SpO2 the same that a sleep study would use that provides the same SpO2 report your doctor would get.
They are around $100 - $150
Here are a couple examples: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B09LHQZR9M
https://www.amazon.com/Contec-Wrist-worn-Oximeter-Software-Download/dp/B00LN4LCMC
> Thinking I might run an air purifier at night.
I can recommend this one:
Does the trick for me! Also, makes your guests more comfortable to visit your home in COVID times!
Yes! I am! I used covers for awhile, they have disposable and reusable ones that work well. I ended up switching to a resmed mask that has foam instead of the silicone and it been a vast improvement on my sleep experience and I don’t get the irritation.
There are two small pieces of foam in the motor air chamber, you can buy a replacement motor air chamber that has no foam (which is what I've done to my three machines). It took me 15 minutes to replace it. Here's the chamber: https://www.amazon.com/Station-Without-Plastic-Chamber-Replace/dp/B09NDLYP3Y/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SKZHI471CMWY&keywords=dreamstation+air+chamber&qid=1668469138&sprefix=dreamstation+air+chambe%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-1
Here's the guide:
120 Pcs Sleep Strips,Anti Snoring... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PBJZJWL?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share is the only one that worked for me and I use 3 pieces per night. Took a while to get it right but much easier than bipap
I use this one..
I get the 3 pack on my monthly subscription every 3 months.. one bottle lasts a month with 3 squirts per nostril per day . I use it about 3 hours before bed and blow my nose gently in the shower prior to bed. You will also want to blow your nose after using the spray too. I was getting bad sinus infection and inner ear tube issues when I first started Apap . But xlear fixed me up perfectly. No sides . My wife and son use it also when we get home from being around people for anti-covid measures. Some studies show it helps . But who knows.
Just what the doctor ordered: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008MJW18K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Pulls up, not back. Doesn't at all irritate my TMJ, so I have no jaw pain.
As u/rainwasher says, turn your lips in slightly as you apply the tape. These sleep strips ( https://www.amazon.com/Snoring-Advanced-Sleeping-Breathing-Reduction/dp/B08PBJZJWL/ref=sxts_rp_s_sp_1_0) have been a sure-fire way for me to avoid mouth-breathing or mouth leaks. They are very convenient.
I think Matthew Walker mentioned it's normal to wake up to pee once.
I put these on every stupid appliance light in my room. Some of my sensor light switches had these stupid green lights on them always illuminated and these really helped: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CLVEQCO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
When I wake up I maintain that I am very very tired and do not try to wake up to walk to the bathroom. I maintain that my eyes are very heavy and don't open them any more than needed. I zombie over to the toilet and grab the corner of the bathroom counter which orients myself to the toilet so I don't have to think about aiming my butt or turn on lights to sit down(a nightime mancard that was well worth giving up). Then you can close your eyes and have a quick nap while you take a relaxing pee instead of swaying around and waking up while standing and often enough creating a mess.
Zombie your way back to bed and fall into it like you're super exhausted and could hardly stay awake long enough to pee and just relieved to be back. Play up your tiredness in your head and it'll manifest into falling asleep.
I use Fx File Explorer with android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nextapp.fx.rk&gl=US with the network add on that lets you SCP file transfer to an SSH server. But there must be a zillion ways to get android stuff to a computer.
Agreed op def needs septoplasty and turbinate reduction.
Notably afrin/septo-turbs is unlikely to meaningfully reduce AHI.
OP should definitely consider sleep study if they can afford the "co-payment". At home sleep study might be cheaper but you also get what you pay for. There is a new wrist pulse ox from Emay that has both pulse ox and airflow meter for <$200 on Amazon which will be almost as good as an at home PSG. I haven't personally tried it.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09JSRT4R8/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_i_TQK02FNKQ3N00QHTRBD2_0
Yeah, this works well. Takes some getting used to, like anything:
https://www.amazon.com/VitalSleep-Anti-Snoring-Mouthpiece-Positioning-Impressions/dp/B098KNKV96/
This watch I used and recommended to others for sp02 and hr. No ecg. It's very accurate.
I’m a month into therapy and I’ll share what’s helped me!
I’ll second the chin strap recommendation. This is the one that I bought but there are tons like it out there: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B08J16FXGM?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
My chin strap is secured as lightly as possible— it doesn’t restrict my ability to breathe through my mouth. It’s more like keeps my chin gently supported so my mouth doesn’t fall open. I switched to the nasal pillows from the mask you have and really like them.
I found that relaxing in bed with my mask on and the lights on helped me get used to the sensation and stay relaxed at night. Scroll through your phone, read a book, whatever engaging activity you like. Practice breathing with your nasal mask on without the pressure of trying to fall asleep.
I also bought this CPAP hanger which clamps to your bed frame or end table— it helps keep your hose out of the way which might help with the claustrophobia. https://www.amazon.com/REAQER-Holder-Preventing-Leakage-Adjustable/dp/B07V6YMPCN?ref_=ast_sto_dp
I also use a nose spray before bed if I feel even a little bit congested or like my nose is dry, which helps me make sure I can breathe comfortably through my nose all night.
Good luck! It gets better 😊
I have found that the heated tubing is not very helpful.
I wrap my hose in doubled 1" cotton stockinette tubing to insulate by tubing. Just cut twice (or more) the length of the hose, pull it over the tubing, and scrunch until it fits. This product is also fantastic to wrap the parts of your headgear that make marks in your face. And since you get a lot of it (25 yards), you can change it when it gets soiled or "tired." (Looks it is currently unavailable on Amazon, but the 25-yard roll I bought was less than $20.)
And I echo what u/Gibbygirl recommends: That you place your machine lower than the plane on which you lay; in particular, your head.
Good luck!
https://www.amazon.com/Bed-Wedge-Pillow-Adjustable-Heartburn/dp/B07PLMGC9C
That page has pictures that show what it looks like, it's the upper half of your body. If you get one make sure it's a foam pillow, it needs to be able to support the weight. Also there's a ton to choose from so shop around for a good price. Mine was like 30 bucks.
Perhaps you have some links with info on that?
The mayo clinic shows it as a treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/central-sleep-apnea/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352114
> Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This method, also used to treat obstructive sleep apnea, involves wearing a mask over your nose while you sleep. CPAP is usually the first treatment given for central sleep apnea. > > The mask is attached to a small pump that supplies a continuous amount of pressurized air to hold open your upper airway. CPAP may prevent the airway closure that can trigger central sleep apnea. > > As with obstructive sleep apnea, it's important that you use the device only as directed. If your mask is uncomfortable or the pressure feels too strong, talk with your doctor. Several types of masks are available. Doctors can also adjust the air pressure.
edited to add: I do appreciate your input. The first time around, I felt the sleep clinic place could have been better. I didn't get any follow up from them, etc. So, it may be time to follow up with my regular dr and get some input from someone on it.
When I went in for my sleep study, they told me I had both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. My doctor mentioned that wasn't a common thing to have. I'm also prone to hypopneas. It's no wonder I was having trouble.
The oxygen bleed is hooked up because of that.
From the mayo clinic page in case you were curious:
> "Supplemental oxygen. Using supplemental oxygen while you sleep may help if you have central sleep apnea. Various devices are available to deliver oxygen to your lungs"
I had a sleep study done in a facility and was diagnosed with both obstructive and central sleep apnea. I have to use an oxygen bleed on my sleep apnea machine as a result, which is a oxygen machine that runs to my cpap tube at the base and gives me a little oxygen mixed in at night.
I would check in with your sleep doctor and see if you need a follow up appointment because I've read that people with sleep apnea can develop central sleep apnea over time:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/central-sleep-apnea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352109
> Complex sleep apnea. Some people with obstructive sleep apnea develop central sleep apnea while using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for their sleep apnea treatment. This condition is known as complex sleep apnea because it's a combination of obstructive and central sleep apneas
For between $70-150 bucks (prices vary a lot, for whatever reason) you can buy a countertop distiller which in about 3 hours can turn a gallon of tap water into a gallon of distilled water.
Now, distilled water is cheap when you can get it; it'll take 5 years or more before this thing pays for itself, assuming any given distiller lasts that long (I don't know, honestly-- I just got mine, and the person who talked me into it has had his for 2 years). The water is also dribbled through a carbon filter, and replacing those filters (I'm not sure how often) plus cleaning up mineral scale (using citric acid powder) will be ongoing costs as well.
But it'll also save me the aggravation of hauling 8-pound water-gallons from the grocery store (which was particularly annoying before I bought a car and had to walk/bus those gallons around), sending probably 24-25 empty gallon jugs to an uncertain future of maybe being recycled, maybe being trashed (municipal recycling systems throw away recycled goods when nobody's placed an order for the recycled material). Most importantly, it'll save me the frustration of those empty supermarket shelves when the distilled water sells out before I get there to shop (as is often the case; I prefer after-dinner shopping if I can help it).
This is the one I got, and the price was around $65, which is the cheapest I've ever seen these things. Maybe it's shit, but time will tell. I've used it twice, and it does what I want it to, at least.
Doh! Thought I fixed that...
This is what I meant -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P1FXRYV
AKA - Headshion Skull Caps for Men Women, Multi-Pack Multifunctional Headwear Bike Hard Hat Helmet Liner Beanie Sleep Caps
(but I also like the Manta slim mask for blackout)
I bought this nightstand.I put it on the middle shelf there and I run the hose out the side. This leaves the machine kind of caged and I can't bump it around. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004PXOAA4/
I use and highly recommend a hose hanger. With one of those the tension on the hose would wake you up before it pulled your machine off the nightstand.
https://www.amazon.com/Eliminate-Tangles-CPAP-Hose-Holder/dp/B003UAHWOE
I got a retracting hose holder kind of like this.
Don't trust the sticky back; screw it into your wall.
It not only takes the stress off your device; it also keeps the hose away from your face throughout the night.
If you have sleep apnea then you probably grind your teeth at night too. So get a night guard from Amazon for cheap. That will prevent you from opening your mouth at night.
https://www.amazon.com/Visismile-Grinding-Professional-Eliminates-Clenching/dp/B09XTCM2CX/
I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/Respironics-Premium-Chin-Strap-P-R/dp/B008MJW18K
10 bucks. Like I said, it aint fantastic but works for me. I don't use very high pressure on my machine and I don't like wearing alot of material on my head ... too hot.
I tell everybody to buy this mouthguard:
I have to tape my mouth shut with it (which I do with this https://www.amazon.com/Bsn-jobst-Cover-Roll-Bandages-Yds/dp/B0015TK62C?pd_rd_w=BhkuS&content-id=amzn1.sym.e9d1499d-979e-4764-af1a-4b0fc4e747e5&pf_rd_p=e9d1499d-979e-4764-af1a-4b0fc4e747e5&pf_rd_r=FMEAVHNB92KHGKDXZDX0&pd_rd_wg=vv0ZP...).
It feels weird to use. It gives you a super underbite that seems strange and unnatural. But you get used to it. For me it’s almost as effective as a cpap device. I use it on vacation or when my machine is being weird
When you wake up after 2 hours, does it feel like the air pressure is really high? I'm having similar issues, and my doctor says I have a leak. Currently using a full face mask. He thinks my chin is sliding down when I go into deep sleep, causing the mask to leak air. When the leak occurs, it's causing my CPAP to increase the pressure (as it thinks something is wrong), so more air is blasting out. This is what's waking me up. He's recommending a chin strap, something like this...
I would recommend that you not use the humidifier, but a 12V adapter works very well. I use them with my battery backup since it's more efficient than going from the 18V DC battery, to a 120V AC, only to be stepped down to 24V DC for the CPAP.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P6H994Q
I tested this one when I gave it to my brother for use with his Airsense 10. It draws about 6w at 12cm-h2o, or about 1A at the 12V outlet, which is safe for all outlets. Even if you do leave on the humidifier and the heated hose it'll still only draw about 7A at the outlet, which a decent outlet, say near the driver, should be rated for.
these have helped me, a chin strap is cheaper in the long run. But, this will not necessarily seal your mouth shut, it may help, or it may not make any difference at all. A full face mask may be more appropriate for you, based on the information that you provided.
You could try some self fusing silicone tape. Works great for low pressure leaks in pipes so I’m sure it would work great for your water tank. Should be available at a hardware store. The JB Weld Plastic would work too but the tape is easier to install in my opinion.
Don’t know anything about this brand. Just providing a random example to give some info on it: https://www.amazon.com/Nashua-Stretch-Seal-Self-Fusing-Silicone/dp/B000TQEX30
I don't know. It came in a clear plastic bag, and the only label on it was from the DME. I haven't asked them to replace it, so I haven't seen it in 3 years. This is what my ex likes:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DEEN186
Amazon says it's not available, but I suspect if you look, they have something equivalent or a different vendor that sells it.
The one they gave me is a lot more minimal.
I use the same nasal mask. Use this tape for my mouth. For me it works better then the chin strap.
While you're waiting, you might want to try a pulse oximeter, the type that clips on your finger, to see how well it agrees with your watch when you're awake. They're only about $20 on Amazon. This kind of thing.
could cause a heart attack or a stroke. But, this is similar. https://www.amazon.com/Snoring-Advanced-WoodyKnows-Breathing-Sleeping/dp/B07KWRLP4L I use this to keep my mouth shut while wearing my cpap mask. It makes me breath through my nose. He could have clogged sinuses, a deviated septum, or what ever. Do not tape his mouth shut. Perhaps a short term solution is ear plugs. But to be clear, do not put earplugs in his mouth. Good luck.