At the beginning of the month Mrs. F.G. suggested to my respirologist (one of 5 specialists we see regularly), that I might have sleep apnea. I could not go in for the sleep test for obvious reasons, but they set up an overnight oxygen test for me. Yes, I had sleep apnea and the remedy was wearing a CPAP mask at night. To be honest my reaction was not positive. I just thought to myself 'Oh no, what else can go wrong with this tired body!'
A week later a soft-voiced young saleslady came to visit and sell me on the benefits. The high cost (about $1200) is mostly covered by OHIP, but we will pay 25% if we keep it. But I get to try it out for free. It's a small modern version, with a built-in humidifier, and it's silent overnight. I politely agreed to try it out. She mentioned in passing that they'd be monitoring my breathing from their office - shades of '1984'!
It turns out, I was surprised.
As we expected, I got a better, smoother sleep, and Mrs. F.G. got a better sleep because I was breathing more quietly. I woke up more rested and breathing more quietly during the day too. On top of that, a gurgly bothersome cough I couldn't get rid of was gone! And the mask was more comfortable to wear than I expected too.
On top of that I was immediately more energetic and less sleepy. I had literally been falling asleep again after breakfast, again after lunch, and again watching TV in the evening. Even in church I would nod off, several times. I was feeling pretty guilty, but put it down to the pain meds I'm always on, which do cause drowsiness. But now? I haven't fallen asleep or felt drowsy once in two weeks!
My whole level of energy has changed, for the better. I'm more alert and focussed. I keep up a running conversation with the girls who come in the morning to get me up instead of falling asleep on them. And I can go all day without a nap. If anyone wanted to take the mask away now I would demand to keep it!
This is an excellent sales pitch for such a contraption I am so glad it is working for both of you. Getting oxygen into your body is a great way of healing. I am glad for you!
ReplyDeleteSo glad that this is working well for you and staying awake all day is a real bonus.
ReplyDeleteMy first thought was, Gee I wonder where I could get me one of those. Just kidding of course but it is quite amazing how well that CPAP mask has helped you in more ways than one not only physically but it has boosted your mental awareness and well being as well. I bet if my wife reads your post she will be pulling some strings and getting me fitted for a permanent CPAP at her earliest convenience. Oh Dear......
ReplyDeleteI had the oxygen test and was borderline. I've talked to people who have a CPAP and they enjoy it like you do.
ReplyDeleteI know many others who have been surprised by the uptick in their energy levels. I'm so glad to hear that this is working so well for you. Makes me smile hugely. :-)
ReplyDeleteYeah for more energy and less sleepiness! :)
ReplyDeleteGlad you had good results from it, a friend who tried one wound up in the ER twice with heart issues. Needless to say, he doesn't use one anymore.
ReplyDeleteYou will be amazed at how many people are actually using CPAPs.
ReplyDeleteModern technology in all shapes and types, and this is one more way to regain as much as you can. So many people are not aware of CPAP, and how it helps so many.Well done to give it a go, you area real trooper to do all this and more.
ReplyDeleteI used to work with a young man with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy who used a CPAP mask. After some initial resistance he began to realise the benefits and was keen to use it. I'm glad to hear that it's working for you too.
ReplyDeleteThat is wonderful! My first thought would be exactly like yours. So many people have them now and yours must be modern as our friends' mask keeps his wife awake. She says it is noisy. I'm so glad something you didn't think you'd need (or want) turns out to be just the thing! yay for trying something new and double yay for the amazing results!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful device, that can bring such benefit to your life! I am so happy you discovered its advantages, and luckily, because you are Canadian, it will be affordable. May it help you live your life to the fullest.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing what a good night sleep does for you. Happy that the devise is able to give you that. I think this must be a pretty common condition because I know quite a few people who have it.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like it has worked out wonderfully.
ReplyDeleteMy husband has used one for about 18 or 20 years. Made a huge difference in both our lives.
ReplyDeleteRoger has been using one since maybe January? I can't remember just when. He wears it most of the night...and does not nap as much during the day, either.
ReplyDeleteI guess we all have to be open to new ideas, especially as we get older. I don't sleep as well as I did five years ago. Back then I could drop off quickly, now it takes a long time to get to sleep. - Margy
ReplyDelete♥ ♥ ♥
ReplyDelete"My whole level of energy has changed, for the better. I'm more alert and focussed"!! how wonderful to hear, you deserve the best!!!
ReplyDeleteHi Furry...
ReplyDeleteGood for you..and a good nights sleep for all!!!
Take care...
Cheers!
Linda :o)
Wonderful news. It's been a journey for you! Hang in there.
ReplyDeleteThis is a very Informative Post. I got too much information from this post which I wanted for CPAP masks .
ReplyDeleteI got too much information from this post which I wanted for CPAP masks . Thanks for sharing such a helpful post.
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