View Full Version : Sleep apnea
I've just been diagnosed with it and my doctor says I'll be getting a nasal mask which blows oxygen down my throat when I sleep to stop the problem.
Does anyone have any experience with these masks?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuous_positive_airway_pressure
Most interesting. So in effect you stop breathing at random intervals when you fall asleep. That's rather scary. I hope the mask thing will work for you.
zing_deleted
14-10-2008, 16:04
I know Billy Connoly uses one but thats as far as it goes. You must get it quite bad to have that. I went to the doc with it when I was a lot bigger and all he said was lose weight
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuous_positive_airway_pressure
Most interesting. So in effect you stop breathing at random intervals when you fall asleep. That's rather scary. I hope the mask thing will work for you.
That's exactly what it is - my throat muscles are loose and when I sleep they relax to the point that they block my airways so I stop breathing for about 20 to 30 seconds. It's not dangerous as our brains will make sure we force a breath through but it does mean I snore like a trumpet and when I wake up I'm totally knackard.
They may start you off with one of the discrete nose ones but if things do not improve you may be put on the full Darth Vader job (well that's what my friend calls hers :rofl:). She has noticed a slight improvement but she suffers from loads of other problems as well. The other thing to be sure of is only using one pillow as this allows the airways to be more open.
Scary.
How Serious is Sleep Apnea?
If left untreated, sleep apnoea can be potentially life threatening.
The main risks include:
Heart attacks
Irregular heart beat
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Strokes
Other known side-effects of sleep apnea are impotency and depression. (Well, I guess that's enough to make you depressed)
In addition, as sleep apnea causes daytime sleepiness, there is also a greater risk of accidents in the home, work or at leisure, caused by a loss of concentration and tiredness.
Important notes on driving:
It is especially important for anyone diagnosed with sleep apnea not to drive for any lengthy periods, or to drive at all when feeling tired. Your doctor or specialist must by law (and ethically) inform the DVLA about your condition. If it is severe, your driving licence is usually suspended. If you get treatment and this is working to the satisfaction of your specialist, you can apply for your licence back.
demented
14-10-2008, 16:25
I know someone who has one, the "full darth vader job". It works but she regards it as a nuisance as it can interfere with other aspects of sleep and has to lug it around, everytime she stays anywhere else, on public transport. Best of luck on the driving licence, you may have problems there as enuff says.
I have to say in all honesty it has never affected my driving :shrug:
I take it you sleep on your back russ?
TheDaddy
14-10-2008, 16:53
They may start you off with one of the discrete nose ones but if things do not improve you may be put on the full Darth Vader job (well that's what my friend calls hers :rofl:). She has noticed a slight improvement but she suffers from loads of other problems as well. The other thing to be sure of is only using one pillow as this allows the airways to be more open.
Yes my mother uses the full face bi pap not for apnea though, don't know how you'd sleep whilst wearing it tbh and the marks it leaves on your face take hours to fade.
---------- Post added at 16:53 ---------- Previous post was at 16:51 ----------
That's exactly what it is - my throat muscles are loose and when I sleep they relax to the point that they block my airways so I stop breathing for about 20 to 30 seconds. It's not dangerous as our brains will make sure we force a breath through but it does mean I snore like a trumpet and when I wake up I'm totally knackard.
I used to suffer with it, you ever wake your self up taking a breath? It was much worse when I smoked and since me and the wife split up I don't think it's happend at all, possibly due to me having a harder bed now or only using one pillow :shrug:
I take it you sleep on your back russ?
No on my front. In fact I can only fall asleep on my front.
My missus had it, was about to get the night mask, but lost a lot of weight and the problem stopped.
laptopsrd
14-10-2008, 18:19
Russ,
I've suffered with apnea for about 7 years, and have used it every day since then. Despite the inconvenience of the unit having to go with me when I stay other places its never been a problem. And the alternative to NOT using it doesnt bear thinking about. PM me if you want to talk more about my experiences.
Steve
PS Driving shouldnt be an issue, never was for me and my experience with DVLA was fine.
kryogenik
14-10-2008, 18:22
How do you know if you have it?
I snore like an aqualung and wake up every morning with a sore throat and feeling like I've been awake all night. I just put it down to, well, being a snorer?
laptopsrd
14-10-2008, 18:39
I went to see the doc after my g/f at the time said she was a bit worried as i stopped breathing during the night. went to see him.. he referred me to the sleep clinic. Did an overnight observation of me and that was it. "you need this".
Might be worth just visiting the doc, as that all i put it down do until the gf said she was concerned.
PM me if you want to talk more about my experiences.
Thanks, I will do that later this evening :)
How do you know if you have it?
I snore like an aqualung and wake up every morning with a sore throat and feeling like I've been awake all night. I just put it down to, well, being a snorer?
Sounds like you may have it. If you wake up each morning feeling groggy and as if you haven't slept at all (regardless of how long you've slept for) then that mirrors my own experiences.
kryogenik
14-10-2008, 18:59
Sounds like you may have it. If you wake up each morning feeling groggy and as if you haven't slept at all (regardless of how long you've slept for) then that mirrors my own experiences.
Yeah, constantly shattered regardless of how well I feel/long I've slept? Very odd.
My wife often says she prods me coz I've 'appeared' to stop breathing.
I've been like this for donkey's years. :(
I tried those nose strips but it was no different.
Might be worth mentioning to the quack then - ta Russ.
And good luck with the Darth Vader mask.
Yeah, constantly shattered regardless of how well I feel/long I've slept? Very odd.
My wife often says she prods me coz I've 'appeared' to stop breathing.
I've been like this for donkey's years. :(
I tried those nose strips but it was no different.
Might be worth mentioning to the quack then - ta Russ.
And good luck with the Darth Vader mask.
Meanwhile only use one pillow. I take pillows away form hubby if he snores & it seems to help.
kryogenik
14-10-2008, 19:09
Meanwhile only use one pillow. I take pillows away form hubby if he snores & it seems to help.
:tu:
cllp1975
14-10-2008, 19:43
I've had the full Darth vader for a few years now. I used to hate it, but over time, and given the good its done me, i've learnt to love it, as has my missus.
The quiet hissing noise it makes is actually quite soothing and I find it quite difficult to sleep without it!
You may not notice the difference immediately, but spend a night without it, and you'll certainly tell!
Remember - it's between wearing a mask, and dying young. Morbid but true.
Oh and be prepared. It's quite normal to find you have 2 or 3 disorders rather than just one. Be patient, it DOES get better.
Good luck.
My cousin has been using the mask for about 4 months now and is a different man, he has loads more energy and is able to do a lot more than he was previously able to. He said that it is only once you have used the mask and managed to have a few good nights sleep that you realise how badly you were affeced.
All these excellent reports are just depressing me now, considering the doctor told me it'll be about 6 months before I get a mask :(
All these excellent reports are just depressing me now, considering the doctor told me it'll be about 6 months before I get a mask :(
Buy one Russ. There's a guy at work who's just been diagnosed with it, he had to go to the sleep clinic at Kings Mill Hospital for a night so they could monitor his sleep patterns and his breathing. He's just been told that he'll lose his driving licence until they get him sorted.
I thought sleep apnia was associated with overweight people??
Graham M
16-10-2008, 08:24
I thought the only thing they could take your driving license off you for was fits?
All these excellent reports are just depressing me now, considering the doctor told me it'll be about 6 months before I get a mask :(
And what reason did he give for the delay? These should be something supplied fairly promptly, don't recollect my friend having to wait that long. :fit:
Looking at advice elsewhere it doesn't seem to be a good idea to buy your own as they need to be specially set up for each individual plus you may get lumbered with something you just cannot get on with.
Complain loudly until you get one!
Even getting a hearing aid mould didn't take that long and these are individually made.
kryogenik
16-10-2008, 08:41
I guess Russ could always sell it on - but I see what you're saying. I see there are a couple of types and one would need to discover which was suitable. It's surprising (and disappointing) he has to wait that long. I'd suggest sitting in the doctor's surgery as often as possible having a nap, and see if the snoring hurries them up.
;)
Especially as unless he can show he is receiving treatment he could well lose his licence.
Try http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sites3/home.cfm?ORGID=236 to chase up some treatment.
Some scary prices too £425 seems to be a starting point for the ones via the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea site :shocked:
Thanks, I'll try that link. No idea of the wait - I guess that's the price of free prescriptions....
Apparently apnea can be connected with being overweight but as in my case that's not always the cause.
So glad I found this thread.......my wife reckons I have sleep apnoea and is banging on about me loosing some weight, which I intend to do.
So glad I found this thread.......my wife reckons I have sleep apnoea and is banging on about me loosing some weight, which I intend to do.
Also looks like sleep apnoea can cause weight gain :erm:
Also looks like sleep apnoea can cause weight gain :erm:
Vicious circle then?
Thanks, I'll try that link. No idea of the wait - I guess that's the price of free prescriptions....
Apparently apnea can be connected with being overweight but as in my case that's not always the cause.
Overweight? There's not a wasted ounce anywhere on that rippling, fighter's physique, shurley? :D
Plenty of wastage on the referee's physique, but according to tolerance levels, I'm still nicely within the right weight scale :D
Unlike my cousin who suffers from apnea too and will only discuss his weight around Christmas when he refers to himself as not fat or overweight but 'festively plump' :rofl:
TheDaddy
16-10-2008, 17:15
Especially as unless he can show he is receiving treatment he could well lose his licence.
Try http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sites3/home.cfm?ORGID=236 to chase up some treatment.
Some scary prices too £425 seems to be a starting point for the ones via the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea site :shocked:
My mums was £7000 she had to pay 10% of the cost, don't know where some one with a chronic disease on long term sick is supposed to get £700 from, she is lucky that she has family and I guess there must be some thing in place for those that genuinely can't afford it but then such speculation is for another thread
Well I've had the date through for when I'm getting the equipment.
April 2009 :cry:
Did they have the decency to tell you why it is taking so long? :mad:
Worried I may need one of these myself :mis:
I didn't even get a letter, just an appointment card that came through the post today. The delay is just one of those things apparently :(
And what reason did he give for the delay? These should be something supplied fairly promptly, don't recollect my friend having to wait that long. :fit:
Looking at advice elsewhere it doesn't seem to be a good idea to buy your own as they need to be specially set up for each individual plus you may get lumbered with something you just cannot get on with.
From my mum's experiences, AFAIK you can't get a new/unused 1 without a prescription. Once you have that I believe it's a matter of finding 1 of the specialist companies/dealers who sell them, & then going for a fitting [of the mask, not sure about the main gizmo]. I suppose it might be possible to just order 1 online, e.g. as a replacement for an old 1, but it's best to get equipped by someone who knows what they're doing, at least the first time.
From my mum's experiences, AFAIK you can't get a new/unused 1 without a prescription. Once you have that I believe it's a matter of finding 1 of the specialist companies/dealers who sell them, & then going for a fitting [of the mask, not sure about the main gizmo]. I suppose it might be possible to just order 1 online, e.g. as a replacement for an old 1, but it's best to get equipped by someone who knows what they're doing, at least the first time.
I think the main reason for having them done properly is they set up the correct pressure according to your breathing pattern to ensure the airways no longer close off. Too much pressure & you don't sleep or get on with using the machine & too little you are no better off. Plus you then have the option of changing the mask without extra cost.
Apparently there's different types of machines, 1 of which doesn't [I think] need setting up in the way you mean, as it is self adjusting. IIRC, it monitors your breathing, & only actually pushes air down your throat when it notices you not breathing when you should, & also calculates the right amount of pressure to apply on a per-breath basis, which is good as the manually calibrated ones tend to err on the side of slightly too much pressure, instead of getting it just right. They're a bit expensive though [can't remember how much].
3 weeks tomorrow and I get my mask!! I can't wait.
In the meantime I found this.. http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/nationworld/sfl-flamarijuana0322sbmar22,0,6659711.story
Legalized medical marijuana is about to make its debut in Michigan, which becomes the 13th state to embrace the controversial pain treatment. In a vote last November, 63 percent of the state's voters said yes to medical marijuana.
There is no sense of euphoria among the men, each weary from grinding pain. Their maladies include cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, neck, back and spinal problems, nerve disorders, depression and sleep apnea, for which they take a cabinet full of prescription painkillers and other medications. Marijuana provides only temporary relief. For them, marijuana is not the ticket to a better life, but to a temporarily less difficult one.
:eek:
Graham M
23-03-2009, 08:45
So you moving to Michigan then Russ?
Yeahhhhh maaaaaaan.... :cool:
Problem we got stuffed with in the UK is the super strong fast growing stuff which is why it is not the mellow option it used to be.
Why can't the pharmaceutical industry develop a safer version without all the unwanted side effects :dozey:
cllp1975
23-03-2009, 09:56
Yes - there is CPAP and APAP. The NHS is still appaulingly underfunded for equipment . i had to wait a year for mine. They only supply APAP (the self adjusting one) to people who lose a significant amount of weight themselves between check ups. These happen every 6-12 months where they test the equipment for safety and make sure the settings are correct. Seems daft that they do it that way round till you realise that APAP is significantly more expensive.
Incidentally - you will need to get the hospital to write you a letter to keep with your passport, confirming that it is important medical equipment - as you will be expected to keep it with your hand luggage - but as an additional item, which gives the security services a heart attack.
In addition - plan ahead if you travel - if you're going long-haul, you can arrange to have your CPAP with you to use, but discuss it with the "special needs" team as soon as you book, as you usually have to fight, but percievere as you will usually succeed. It's a type of disability, so if they don't let you use it, they're breaking uk law. If you turn up at the airport without preplanning though, forget it - health and safety top-trumps disability discrimination.
Wow thanks - I'm not planning any overseas trips but that's certainly handy to know. I wasn't aware it's a form of disability either. I wouldn't be classed as 'legally' disabled though would I?
cllp1975
23-03-2009, 11:52
Bizarrely, you're disabled at the moment, but once you get your machine, you won't be as it'll be considered treated.
However, what many people, including me, have found is that treating sleep apnoea is like peeling an onion - you may find other sleep disorders unmask (ha ha) once this is under control. You're still considered disabled until you have an all clear from the hospital that you're ok.
For example - when I got my CPAP, I was OK for a bit, then started getting restless legs. They're still investigating this, and in the meantime, the hospital advised the DVLA not to let me drive. The upside to this, is that as I don't drive through no fault of my own, I get free public transport use.
However, as soon as my restless legs are under control, I can request that the hospital tell the DVLA to let me drive again - and I lose the disabled travel status.
It's almost a paradox....
laptopsrd
23-03-2009, 11:56
have to say that i've never had a problem with taking my machine with me in the last 7 years i've had it. and thats travelling to Europe and the US, but it could be different in other places. I've always taken it as hand luggage too.
It will make a hell of a difference to your life Russ, the only downside i can see is that now i'm losing weight i'm try to sleep without it occaisionally.. and I cant..
I'm a CPAP addict LOL
It will make a hell of a difference to your life Russ,
The thing is, I already know what it's going to feel like waking up full of energy.
A few months ago I inadvertantly mixed my painkiller medication up and took more than I should have before bed.
I don't know what it did, or how it did it but I experienced no apnea that night and I woke up in the morning feeling like I had adrenaline running through me. I'm always the type who needs to switch the alarm off several time before getting up, or when I normally wake up I lay there dozing for a while first but that morning I bounded out of bed straight away, I've never felt anything like it.
cllp1975
23-03-2009, 12:22
have to say that i've never had a problem with taking my machine with me in the last 7 years i've had it. and thats travelling to Europe and the US, but it could be different in other places. I've always taken it as hand luggage too.
It will make a hell of a difference to your life Russ, the only downside i can see is that now i'm losing weight i'm try to sleep without it occaisionally.. and I cant..
I'm a CPAP addict LOL
Taking - agreed, no problems, Using on board? Nightmare, and it is an issue, coz if you're dealing with jetlag AND apneoa, then you've lost a day or two of your holiday to recover.
Well here it is, tomorrow I get my CPAP mask, it's possible tonight it the last night I go to bed knowing I'm going to wake up in the morning feeling even worse...I've been blogging about this for months, can't believe the day is about to arrive. I'm just hoping I manage to get to sleep wearing what looks like a fighter pilot's mask...
Just a thought ... have you considered getting as fit as you can. I've had it in the past and would wake up and you'd have to peel me off the ceiling.
It's not a barrel of laughs as you probably know, luckily getting fit solved the problem.
Level of fitness makes no difference to sleep apnea sufferers.
Good luck tomorrow, Russ.
cllp1975
13-04-2009, 22:48
Clean the mask REGULARLY. You can pick up allsorts if it's dirty.
Good luck - the first couple of nights can feel a bitstrange, but before you know it, you'll find it stranger without it. Good luck and keep us posted.
Well here it is, tomorrow I get my CPAP mask, it's possible tonight it the last night I go to bed knowing I'm going to wake up in the morning feeling even worse...I've been blogging about this for months, can't believe the day is about to arrive. I'm just hoping I manage to get to sleep wearing what looks like a fighter pilot's mask...
Let us know how you get on Russ, many people suffer from this without realising.
What a pile of horse you-know-what. I am FUMING.
I am struggling to keep calm right now.
Let me give you some background. Back in October the results of my sleep study revealed I suffer from apnea and on average I stop breathing 19 times an hour. The specialist told me an appointment would be made for me to get the CPAP mask which will eliminate it. As you probably know I have been really excited about getting this thing today as it means my 20 year affliction will be dealt with. So a date was made, 14th April. Today.
I could barely sleep last night because I was so looking forward to it. I even went over there a bit early, an hour early actually but I didn't care, I brought a book as was prepared to wait (how ironic...).
My name was called and the specialist I saw was the same man who my appointment was with back in October. The first thing he said was "So how are you getting on with your CPAP mask?".
I replied "Erm, that's what I'm here for today".
His answer "No, you were supposed to have been given a CPAP and to come back today to tell us if it's made a difference".
I reminded him of what he told me at my last appointment.
"No" he said, "what I told you was someone would be in touch to give you the mask. Today was for you to come and tell us if it has been working".
But that wasn't the case at all. He specifically told me that on April 14th I'd be getting the mask.
He denied saying it. I could feel the red mist rising, this guy wasn't directly calling me a liar but I remember his words from October. The date stuck out because it was the day before the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.
He denied it all again and explain that someone should have been in touch to arrange a fitting of the mask. I then asked him if that was the case why make a 'follow up' appointment (which apparently today was supposed to be) when I hadn't actually been given the mask in the first place. He didn't answer that, instead he gave me the phone number of the department that deals with it.
I was fuming. I rang the number and spoke to a nice doctor who explained in no way should the specialist have told me what he said....plus apparently it was not the first time this has happened...make your own mind up about that.
In reality what happens is I'm on the waiting list to get a CPAP. There's not much funding for them so when the money comes available they order a batch of them. Apparently I'm in the top 20 of the waiting list and they have just ordered 50. It takes 6 weeks for them to arrive and be tested and then they have to arrange appointments for them to be fitted, all in all it takes about 3 months so that's how much longer I'm looking at waiting.
3 months.
I can take waiting as long as I know what's going on and if there's no BS. But boy was I BS'd.
I'm in the process of writing a complaint to the Health Trust about that specialist. I'm probably going to be called racist for this but the way I'm feeling right now I seriously could not care less.
The specialist is not British. I think he's Egyptian actually but whatever, his English is not good. perhaps that's what the problem was, maybe he was trying to say I wasn't going to get the mask today but I swear that is not what he actually said.
To be honest I don't care, I'm putting in this complaint. I don't have a problem that there are waiting lists, or a lack of funding. You expect that these days.
What I object to is the kind of BS I received today. I would stake my reputation on the fact he told me back in October that I would get the mask on 14th April.
Fortunately the doctor I spoke to on the phone was very understanding and gave me his direct line for me to call every few weeks if I wanted to in order to chart my progress in getting a mask and I think I'll do that.
Apologies for the rant, I thought my 20 year wait for a solution to me feeling permanently tired all the time was over.
Russ, sorry to hear about the "mix-up".
Good luck.
joglynne
14-04-2009, 11:48
Oh Russ I am so disappointed for you. I came on to the post expecting a happy outcome of to-days appointment and really can't believe what has happened. :hugs:
Don't worry about seeming racist. A prat is a prat no matter what nationality they are and, as it doesn't sound as though you are the only person this Specialist has misled, he needs reporting.
superbiatch
14-04-2009, 12:10
I think you might get things moving a bit quicker if you do complain Russ, you might just find that the timescales quoted are in fact just guidelines ;) Follow their procedure which will usually involve contacting the PALS officer.
I'm sorry you didn't get your mask, and i only wish sometimes that the people making these decisions had a hold on 'real life' and read threads such as this. Only by complaining are things ever going to improve.
Good luck :tu:
Cheers - but I don't really want things to be speeded up, I'm more than happy to wait my turn. I just want something done about those BS with people's lives.
---------- Post added at 12:33 ---------- Previous post was at 12:13 ----------
Actually I had a think about it and I've just put my complaint in to the Complaints Advocate - let's see how this goes. Not bothered about getting seen any quicker because that's not fair on the people who have been waiting longer than me.
joglynne
14-04-2009, 12:52
As you are 20th on the list it's quite possible that you wouldn't have received a mask any earlier seeing as the Health Authority is only now financially in a position to order a new supply.
However, it was still wrong of the Specialist to lead you to believe that there was a fixed date when a mask would be available when he must have known there were delays due to financial constraints. I wonder how many others on the list have been given the same misinformation by him.
superbiatch
14-04-2009, 13:19
Cheers - but I don't really want things to be speeded up, I'm more than happy to wait my turn. I just want something done about those BS with people's lives.
---------- Post added at 12:33 ---------- Previous post was at 12:13 ----------
Actually I had a think about it and I've just put my complaint in to the Complaints Advocate - let's see how this goes. Not bothered about getting seen any quicker because that's not fair on the people who have been waiting longer than me.
I'm not suggesting for one minute that you bunk the queue, but according to your specialist you should already have this mask.
like you say Russ, you've been waiting all these years - 3 months will soon pass. :D
My husbands sleep apnea tale, typed with his permission!!
My husband, when we first met 5 years ago, had a big problem, only he did not really know it, as he had blinkered himself to it.
He was over weight, had a size 18 collar, snored like 10 pigs, and as soon as he ate, would then just drop of to sleep.
He never got a proper nights sleep, always woke early, never refreshed, all he ever longed for was the next sleep time.
His eyes when he drove would twitch, especially after lunch time, and it looked like he was fighting nodding off.
When we decided to get married, he knew there would be a problem for me, because of his very loud snoring, wow he was right , honeymoon was a disaster, I never slept a wink!(no comments now)
In the end, mainly for my own selfish(?!) reasons, I said enoughs enough, get yourself to the Doctors.
He did, and oh heck, sleep apnea was digasnosed.
There are many varients of this, and each case is individual.
The Doctor had to inform the DVLA, bad times!!
What the heck could he do? He went on the list for a individual fitted mouth piece, a mask, and more consultations with the Mr!
As we were both very concerned, we went private, paid near on 750 quid for another chappy to say, you have to try to help yourself! He was told to lose weight, get fit, and reduce his collar size to less than 17. Apparently a mans collar size 17 and over, and a womans size 16 and over, is dodgy!
I knew I could not sleep with a man with a mask and a breathing machine, and he needed to be back on the road again, so diet time came!
He has reduced his weight by 3 and a half stone, collar size 16 now, only snores like the three little pigs, and his sleep apnea diagnosis has been taken away.
As I said, all cases are individual, but this was one guys tale, even though typed by me, but a tale of hope and encourgment for all other sufferers I hope!
He never got a proper nights sleep, always woke early, never refreshed, all he ever longed for was the next sleep time.
His eyes when he drove would twitch, especially after lunch time, and it looked like he was fighting nodding off.
Oh I know that feeling....
My husbands sleep apnea tale, typed with his permission!!
My husband, when we first met 5 years ago, had a big problem, only he did not really know it, as he had blinkered himself to it.
He was over weight, had a size 18 collar, snored like 10 pigs, and as soon as he ate, would then just drop of to sleep.
He never got a proper nights sleep, always woke early, never refreshed, all he ever longed for was the next sleep time.
His eyes when he drove would twitch, especially after lunch time, and it looked like he was fighting nodding off.
When we decided to get married, he knew there would be a problem for me, because of his very loud snoring, wow he was right , honeymoon was a disaster, I never slept a wink!(no comments now)
In the end, mainly for my own selfish(?!) reasons, I said enoughs enough, get yourself to the Doctors.
He did, and oh heck, sleep apnea was digasnosed.
There are many varients of this, and each case is individual.
The Doctor had to inform the DVLA, bad times!!
What the heck could he do? He went on the list for a individual fitted mouth piece, a mask, and more consultations with the Mr!
As we were both very concerned, we went private, paid near on 750 quid for another chappy to say, you have to try to help yourself! He was told to lose weight, get fit, and reduce his collar size to less than 17. Apparently a mans collar size 17 and over, and a womans size 16 and over, is dodgy!
I knew I could not sleep with a man with a mask and a breathing machine, and he needed to be back on the road again, so diet time came!
He has reduced his weight by 3 and a half stone, collar size 16 now, only snores like the three little pigs, and his sleep apnea diagnosis has been taken away.
As I said, all cases are individual, but this was one guys tale, even though typed by me, but a tale of hope and encourgment for all other sufferers I hope!
Thats a good positive tale about this condition.
No honeymoon comments http://smileyshut.com/smileys/new/Angels-and-Demons/demon-and-angel.gif (http://smileyshut.com)
homealone
14-04-2009, 21:50
Oh Russ I am so disappointed for you. I came on to the post expecting a happy outcome of to-days appointment and really can't believe what has happened. :hugs:
Don't worry about seeming racist. A prat is a prat no matter what nationality they are and, as it doesn't sound as though you are the only person this Specialist has misled, he needs reporting.
I share those thoughts 100%, Jo, Russ seems to have been really patient waiting for some help with his problem & must be so disappointed to have been let down - to realise others may be in exactly the same position makes it even worse & I agree it should be escalated ...
Cheers - but I don't really want things to be speeded up, I'm more than happy to wait my turn. I just want something done about those BS with people's lives.
---------- Post added at 12:33 ---------- Previous post was at 12:13 ----------
Actually I had a think about it and I've just put my complaint in to the Complaints Advocate - let's see how this goes. Not bothered about getting seen any quicker because that's not fair on the people who have been waiting longer than me.
Good luck with your complaint as I know you will feel very disheartened and let down.
Update! :)
Just had a call from the doctor I complained to, he said he forgot to mention that before I get a CPAP mask I need to use a similar machine to test what pressure setting is needed (again, the first I'd heard of this - the Egyptian doctor, unsurprisingly, failed to mention it) so when I do get my own device I'll know what level to use. Until i had this trial I would not be considered for a CPAP.
Anyway he called to let me know there's be a cancellation in a few weeks and could he book me in - oh hell yeah!
Was really sound of him to call me up and offer me the appointment - so things are now moving :D
The trial device will work exactly the same as the CPAP I'll be given. That's pretty good but the downer is I'll only have it a week before giving it back. Still, we're now getting somewhere.
Saaf_laandon_mo
16-04-2009, 10:29
I think you might get things moving a bit quicker if you do complain Russ, you might just find that the timescales quoted are in fact just guidelines ;) Follow their procedure which will usually involve contacting the PALS officer.
After spending 2 weeks in hospital for my slipped disc - xrays also revealed spinal fractures - the only thing that had any positive effect on the way I was being treated was a visit to PALs.
If you are ever in hospital, and feel that you are not been treated properly, then a visit to PALs is definately worthwile. Not many people know of its existence, and its definately worth checking the complaint making process of a hospital (some processes are slightly different) if admitted into one.
that's good news Russ :tu:
Update! :)
Just had a call from the doctor I complained to, he said he forgot to mention that before I get a CPAP mask I need to use a similar machine to test what pressure setting is needed (again, the first I'd heard of this - the Egyptian doctor, unsurprisingly, failed to mention it) so when I do get my own device I'll know what level to use. Until i had this trial I would not be considered for a CPAP.
Anyway he called to let me know there's be a cancellation in a few weeks and could he book me in - oh hell yeah!
Was really sound of him to call me up and offer me the appointment - so things are now moving :D
The trial device will work exactly the same as the CPAP I'll be given. That's pretty good but the downer is I'll only have it a week before giving it back. Still, we're now getting somewhere.
The ( insert own description of moron here ) doctor obviously did not have a clue and now at least you have someone who knows exactly what they are talking about and is taking the time to deal with it.
It may be only a week but it should be the best weeks sleep you have had in years and will make you feel like a new man, so your other half had better watch out.:D
Turkey Machine
16-04-2009, 12:55
After spending 2 weeks in hospital for my slipped disc - xrays also revealed spinal fractures - the only thing that had any positive effect on the way I was being treated was a visit to PALs.
If you are ever in hospital, and feel that you are not been treated properly, then a visit to PALs is definately worthwile. Not many people know of its existence, and its definately worth checking the complaint making process of a hospital (some processes are slightly different) if admitted into one.
Enlighten me as to what PALs is... Google's a bit hit and miss, only more miss with that. :)
Good luck Russ, been following this for a while! Hope things work themselves out eventually!
Patient Liason or something like that. ?
joglynne
16-04-2009, 13:02
Patient Advice and Liaison Services
http://www.pals.nhs.uk/
:tu: I was almost right... :erm:
So are you still persueing a complaint Russ?
:tu: I was almost right... :erm:
So are you still persueing a complaint Russ?
Yes, in the Welsh NHS we have the Complaints Advocate who takes on things like this.
Another part to this is in february 2007 I was called in for day surgery for them to send a probe up my nose and down my throat to check on any obstructions. When I came round the surgeon's words were "I think you'd benefit from nasal surgery". He then told me an appointment would be made for me. I waited...and waited....and waited....until March 2008 - more than a year later.
When I chased it up it turned out they 'overlooked' me as my file was left on a shelf somewhere. Had I not chased it up I'd still be waiting.
I mentioned all this to the Advocate yesterday and he wondered why it is I had not been put forward for surgery when the doctor had recommended it.
He's drafting a letter of complaint for me which I have to check over on wednesday and also sign a form giving him consent to act on my behalf. Seems like a lot of things have gone cock-eyed over this and I'm not letting anyone get away with it.
:tu: fingers crossed for you, imagine all the people that would just sit there and take it on the chin though... that's even more depressing!
hmm, thinks of putting Mother in law in touch with luton pals.. :idea:
Saaf_laandon_mo
16-04-2009, 15:55
During my recent stay in hospital I was admitted on a Thursday night. Following my xray on the Friday morning I was told I would need a CT Scan. I was told that this would happen on Friday, or early Monday (as CT Scans are only done on a weekend for life or death emergencies). I thought fair enough. During the weekend I wasn't seen by any doctor apart from the nurses who came round to do your regular Blood pressure check ups and administer pain killers.
On the Saturday i was moved to a different ward. Because there weren't any beds in the orthapedic ward I was placed in a ward a floor below. A patient in my situation who is in a ward which is not the one that covers his injuries/diagnosis is called an outlyer. I was not seen by a doctor/consultant on a round on Saturday, Sunday or Monday morning. At Monday 4pm I asked whats happening with my CT Scan. The suister on the ward rang the CT Scan unit and they said it had not been booked in. So if I had not said anything I'd be there just waiting.
In the 20 days I was there I was seen by doctors 6 times. Never once on a regular ward round. 3 times I was seen by a non specialist junior doctor to tell me when my MRI scan would be and when I'd be seeing a consultant, twice when I was in extreme agony and had to call a doctor and finally once when the consultant I was waiting to see returned from annual leave.
All I did for 16 odd days was pop 25 pain killers a day! No Physio, no consultation (well only one proper one) and 1 xray, 1 CT Scan and 1 MRI Scan.
I was told on the 4th of April that I would be getting an epidural in my back to replace the pain killers Im on. I was then told as an inpatient this would happen on the 24th April. The same clinic that administers this could do it within 5 days if I went private at a cost of £1400 (I know because I called the clinic to find out). I arranged an appt with the director of Orthapedics at the hospital through PALs and asked how much it costs me to stay in hospital every night. She said approximately £400 to £600. I challeneged her that the NHS is willing to let me stay in that bed for a further 20 days yet the same clinic/doctor that would be doing my epidural on the 24th would be able to do it in 5 days at a cost of 1500 so why don't they pay the 1500 and save themselves 10k in the process. They would then have a bed within 5 days as opposed to another 20. I was told, "Thats not how the NHS works"
I was also told that I was well within my rights to stay in hospital till the 24th. I checked out the very day, and am now still on 25pills a day, waiting for my epidural (It will happen on the 13th May).
I know its off topic but I am just so peeved off at the state of the NHS. I have to say that the nurses and ward staff (sisters, dinner ladies etc) are excellent. It's just the management thats a mess. I have my complaint with PALs on going but even then I won't be olding my breath. My main complaint is why I was never seen by a doctor on a ward round in my entire stay. And no one has been able to answer the question yet.
Anyway rant over..... Hope things work out for you Russ.
southwell
23-04-2009, 09:24
Russ,
My father suffers from sleep apnea too. He was seen by a specialist many years ago, hooked up to a machine and then recommended to get a mask. He is on private health insurance and they wouldn't cover the mask. He didn't think the problem was £800 bad, although he would pay it if it cures his sleeping problems. My question is, if he goes via the NHS then is the mask free? My mother has recently been made redundant so he will no longer be under a private health insurance scheme.
Thanks
I don't know how different health trusts work, I'm presuming they're all the same. But from my local trust the mask is free as well as the replacement parts.
southwell
23-04-2009, 09:28
I don't know how different health trusts work, I'm presuming they're all the same. But from my local trust the mask is free as well as the replacement parts.
Thats great, thanks. He has no excuse now. :D
Update! :)
Just had a call from the doctor I complained to, he said he forgot to mention that before I get a CPAP mask I need to use a similar machine to test what pressure setting is needed (again, the first I'd heard of this - the Egyptian doctor, unsurprisingly, failed to mention it) so when I do get my own device I'll know what level to use. Until i had this trial I would not be considered for a CPAP.
Anyway he called to let me know there's be a cancellation in a few weeks and could he book me in - oh hell yeah!
Was really sound of him to call me up and offer me the appointment - so things are now moving :D
The trial device will work exactly the same as the CPAP I'll be given. That's pretty good but the downer is I'll only have it a week before giving it back. Still, we're now getting somewhere.
How it usually works is you have a one or two week trial with an auto-titration APAP machine. This adjusts the level of pressure needed to keep your airway patent. You are then given a CPAP machine that is set to this pressure but it doesn't auto-titrate. You may be wondering why not give everyone an auto-titrating machine? Well, this is because a) most people tolerate the CPAP fine and b) they are cheaper and therefore they can treat more people.
There is a ramp feature which means the air pressure increases gradually so that you can get to sleep without the full force straight away.
Some people also find that using a mask actually stops them sleeping as it is quite invasive. Others have no problem at all. Others pull the mask off in their sleep. This trial also helps determine this.
There are several types of mask. The most common are nasal or fulll face which cover the mouth too. You'll be asked which feels the most comfortable at the fitting.
The other thing you can get is a humidifier attachment as some people experience a drying out of the mouth and nasopharynx. This usually resolves itself but some need a humidifier to help this. The reason I mention this is mentioned that you mentioned that you've had problems with a ?blockage in your nasal airway. This in itself can exacerbate OSA so once this is sorted you may find the OSA disappears or improves..?? What was your diagnosis for that by the way? Polyps?
Our Trust uses Resmed machines usually. I'll see if I can find a website.
http://www.resmed.com/uk/index.html
Salu, you are a God-send ;)
You have just explained things much better than anyone else I've seen has done. As for the nasal blockage - I have no idea. I haven't been told anything. All I know is the CPAP is supposed to be the best option for me.
I'll be getting the auto-titrate on May 19th.
Turkey Machine
23-04-2009, 16:04
Salu, you are a God-send ;)
You have just explained things much better than anyone else I've seen has done. As for the nasal blockage - I have no idea. I haven't been told anything. All I know is the CPAP is supposed to be the best option for me.
I'll be getting the auto-titrate on May 19th.
Hate to plug something, especially when I don't use them myself, but thought about those BreatheRight nasal strips, like a plaster over the nose? Similar to the stuff racing drivers use to help them breathe better in races.
"Teapot" and "chocolate" spring to mind.. ;)
Chatting to a friend last night who found immediate relief from the day he got his. So much so that if he could lend it to people to show how beneficial he found it he would. He wakes up feeling full of energy and raring to go following 6-7 hours of brilliant sleep.
You're making me jealous! ;)
Anyway, 1 week before I get my titrate mask, gutted I'll have to give it back :(
superbiatch
12-05-2009, 21:21
You're making me jealous! ;)
Anyway, 1 week before I get my titrate mask, gutted I'll have to give it back :(
Get as much kip in as you can until you get your permanent one ;)
It'll be easier getting a credit card from a WAG than to get me to return the mask :D
superbiatch
12-05-2009, 21:32
It'll be easier getting a credit card from a WAG than to get me to return the mask :D
If they can't wake you up, they can't get it back. Earplugs should do the trick ;)
lololol as much as I'd love to keep hold of the mask, it has to go back a week the following friday.
Unless of course I 'forget' about the appointment.... :spin:
superbiatch
12-05-2009, 21:37
In that case, enjoy it while you have it!
There is an interesting programme on about sleep problems on BBC1 now ;)
10 things about sleep?! I only know one thing - I don't get enough of it :D
superbiatch
12-05-2009, 21:42
.....for now ;)
And here we are!
Went to the hospital this morning to collect my titrate CPAP mask. This isn't the actual device I'll be getting, it does the same job but also alternates the pressure settings so they'll know what level to put the device on when I get my own. I was told I'll have to wait about 3 months for it which I'm happy to do.
This CPAP is a tester and has to be returned a week friday. The purpose of today was also to show me how to use it. The appointment today took about an hour and in the 5 minute chat I had with the nurse I was told more about the whole procedure, how apnea affected me and what happens next than my 3 previous appointments with the Egyptian doctor, the supposed 'specialist' :dozey:
Anyway it all went well and I asked the nurse what the current waiting time was for me to get my own CPAP to keep. She told me that because they'd messed up so much (apprently they'd looked in to it and there are more cock-ups in this than they've told me) they had kept one aside for me and I was going to be given it when I return this tester a week friday.
So instead of having to wait 3 months, I now have to only wait 10 days. It's not was I was expecting, I was prepared to wait the timescale they originally said but I was very very greatful and very impressed.
Anyway this is the CPAP machine, it's about half the size of a shoebox.....
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3330/3545741292_13e98ed7dd_b.jpg
And this is the gimp mask I have to wear whenever I sleep.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2423/3544936863_0b3ae9dea4_b.jpg
I'm going to have an afternoon kip later and shall give it it's maiden voyage....
superbiatch
19-05-2009, 12:30
...... She told me that because they'd messed up so much (apprently they'd looked in to it and there are more cock-ups in this than they've told me) they had kept one aside for me and I was going to be given it when I return this tester a week friday.
Thats great news Russ, it pays to complain like I said. You're not getting anything quicker than the next person - just the time you 'should' have waited ;)
So you'll be nipping off for a snooze now then???? :p:
lol I normally get sleepy around 2pm so I'll give it a blast then. I might even post a picture of me wearing the mask for you all to scare burglars away with :D
Thats great news Russ, it pays to complain like I said. You're not getting anything quicker than the next person - just the time you 'should' have waited ;)
So you'll be nipping off for a snooze now then???? :p:
Probably the last we will hear of him today:D:D:D
Probably the last we will hear of him today:D:D:D
With a bit of luck I might even wake up in a good mood....
With a bit of luck I might even wake up in a good mood....
Well hurry up and go to sleep:p::p::p:
joglynne
19-05-2009, 13:15
What absolutely brilliant news Russ. I've got a grin on my face just thinking about the fact you should have your own CPAP so soon.
Sleep well. :hugs:
Well hurry up and go to sleep:p::p::p:
:LOL:
seriously, good luck with that Russ. oh look it's 2pm, is he asleep yet?
superbiatch
19-05-2009, 14:09
:LOL:
seriously, good luck with that Russ. oh look it's 2pm, is he asleep yet?
Oh I'd say so, its gone remarkably quiet :D
Russ B:
Last Activity: Today 13:26
joglynne
19-05-2009, 14:55
LOL this reminds me of the times I put my young son down for a nap then sat wondering when he would wake up. Lets hope he doesn't wake up all grumpy. :D
Raistlin
19-05-2009, 14:58
<---------- Looks at the name of the hospital on Russ' device.....
They doing hospitals especially for lonely single blokes now? :D
Hmm, this is going to take a bit of getting used to. The mask is surprisingly comfortable but does make a noise, a bit less than say having a computer fan on in the background.
I kept getting to the point of almost dropping off then I'd stir a bit. I think I might have slept for a few minutes here and there though. All in all I didn't rest enough to feel much better so the big test will be tonight.
mikeeey-h
19-05-2009, 17:01
Russ,
Just came across your thread on the front page and I hope you have a good nights sleep.
I was diagnosed 6 years ago, after my wife was repeatly telling me that I stopped breathing during the night. I was quite shocked at the results from my sleep study, and so was the consultant. In fact I was called in 3 days after after a "cancellation" had the auto CPAP for one night and then was given my first CPAP the next day. (My Average Events were 92/Hour and my pressure is set to 14).
The difference the CPAP made was imediate, I woke after about 4 hours sleep and was bouncing around and had to force myself bak to bed the next evening, previously I would wake on the morning and then have to set three alarms on my mobile phone as I would be asleep again on the couch. Lucky I had a good employer who would laugh off the fact that I would be asleep in the staff room during lunch, as soon as I was home I would fall asleep watching the TV for my wife to wake me up for tea, for me to fall aleep again.
I could not keep my eyes open driving and I would struggle to drive for more than 15 minutes, and I think the worst experance was falling asleep during a kids birthday party, you can imagine the noise 33 8 year olds were making runing around me and I had only been up about 3 hours.
In the last 6 years I've probably only slepted three times with out my CPAP due to technical faults with the machine and I've felt like death until I'm back on my CPAP.
Yes the machine is a hinderance, and the wife hates it but I don't think I would go back to a life without it.
Michael
(My Average Events were 92/Hour and my pressure is set to 14).
92?!?!?! I thought I was bad on 19.2!!
The difference the CPAP made was imediate, I woke after about 4 hours sleep and was bouncing around and had to force myself bak to bed the next evening,
This is what everyone is telling me - I can't wait to try it tonight. I think I know how I'm going to feel (I inadvertantly mixed medication last year and somehow it counteracted the apnea and I woke up feeling like I had pure adrenaline running through me) and I'm really hoping this is it for me.
Shhhhhhhhhh
He's probably still asleep.....:D
OK I had terrible trouble getting off last night so I needed some diazepam. I eventually got to sleep with the mask on and woke up at 6am - about 2 hours earier than normal. I didn't feel as tired as I would expect to be after being up earlier but then again I didn't feel all that refreshed. I have no idea if it did anything for my snoring (not really my priority) but I'm just going to keep at it as the results can take time.
Shhhhhhhhhh
He's probably still asleep.....:D
No he and I were conversing at about 7 this morning..I just forgot to ask how it had gone being cream crackered myself at the time.:)
Turkey Machine
20-05-2009, 19:55
Makes me wonder if my body's screwed up. I can't operate effectively on less than 12 hours of sleep, 8 at a push! I can easily sleep for 14 hours, waking up after about 12 maybe.
The best way to find out is whether or not you ever wake yourself up with a 'snort'. If so then that's the wonderful apnea.
Makes me wonder if my body's screwed up. I can't operate effectively on less than 12 hours of sleep, 8 at a push! I can easily sleep for 14 hours, waking up after about 12 maybe.
You have heart issues so it will be your body telling you it needs rest.
Good luck with that as well mate.
OK I had terrible trouble getting off last night so I needed some diazepam. I eventually got to sleep with the mask on and woke up at 6am - about 2 hours earier than normal. I didn't feel as tired as I would expect to be after being up earlier but then again I didn't feel all that refreshed. I have no idea if it did anything for my snoring (not really my priority) but I'm just going to keep at it as the results can take time.
It's not the length of sleep is the quality of it Russ, my mate who suffers from the same as you has had his mask for a few months now, he swears it's made his sleep better, he's sleeping shorter but his quality of sleep has improved no end, he's stopped sweating in the middle of the night, he's no longer snoring and he's staying awake longer at night where as before he was a sleep for 7pm.
Turkey Machine
20-05-2009, 21:29
The best way to find out is whether or not you ever wake yourself up with a 'snort'. If so then that's the wonderful apnea.
Not normally that I can tell (I don't currently sleep with company beside me to kick me if/when I snore), but I do wake up sometimes a little dazed and confused after a dodgy dream! I've also been known to lash out in my sleep, although I do that awake too! Damn twitches! :D
You have heart issues so it will be your body telling you it needs rest.
Good luck with that as well mate.
When I first had the ablation procedure, I felt much more energetic, and that's tailed off since then. The WPW has come back according to the ECG, and I go see the surgeon who fixed me last time in July!
It's not the length of sleep is the quality of it Russ, my mate who suffers from the same as you has had his mask for a few months now, he swears it's made his sleep better, he's sleeping shorter but his quality of sleep has improved no end, he's stopped sweating in the middle of the night, he's no longer snoring and he's staying awake longer at night where as before he was a sleep for 7pm.
Quality of sleep is important. I can be asleep for a block of 12 hours or more and feel totally refreshed, I can also wake up several times in the night due to anxiety and feel like crap after 12 hours broken sleep!
Oddly, I don't seem to sleep as well when my laptop's off compared to when it's on. I like quiet, but I think the hum of the fan is a soothing thing. :dozey:
I know it'a nothing to do with the length of sleep but when someone has several hours less than the recommended, you'd expect them to feel a little tired.
superbiatch
21-05-2009, 09:10
How was last night Russ? Or are you still asleep :D
southwell
21-05-2009, 09:17
I am constantly tired, despite getting 8 hours a night and sleeping throughout the whole night. :(
Well I managed a full nights' sleep (apparently this is unheard of for someone using a CPAP for only the second time) but I'm not feeling any more energetic this morning. Maybe I'm not yawning as much so far but I'm not noticing any major change.
The apnea forum I'm on is suggesting maybe that's to do with my body getting used to me sleeping with this thing on and thereby still fragmenting my sleep patterns.
The best way to find out is whether or not you ever wake yourself up with a 'snort'. If so then that's the wonderful apnea.
I quite often do that. I just put it down to my weight, and am working on that. ;)
Well I managed a full nights' sleep (apparently this is unheard of for someone using a CPAP for only the second time) but I'm not feeling any more energetic this morning. Maybe I'm not yawning as much so far but I'm not noticing any major change.
The apnea forum I'm on is suggesting maybe that's to do with my body getting used to me sleeping with this thing on and thereby still fragmenting my sleep patterns.
How many hours per night do you sleep for? One thing they will measure is how long you use the CPAP for each night. Some people regularly go to bed in the early hours and rise as late as possible. Are you one of those? There are other reasons why you would sleep badly which may be present concomitantly. However it's early days yet....
I normally hit the sack around midnight and am up about half 8 - the thing about today is I didn't feel the need to sleep this afternoon so maybe there is progress after all.
Something is definitely happening - around this time of day I'm normally struggling to stay awake but now I feel fine. Most people's energy levels drop mid-afternoon but I've always been groggy enough to sleep. It's happened a few times now so I think I'm starting to feel the benefits.
If I keep this up then I think I can say I'll pretty much have my apnea under control. Kind of makes me feel like going on a an apnea evangelical mission - there must be thousands of people who suffer from it and have no idea. It's such a frustrating condition to have that I really want to spread the word.
that's so great that it's the mask thingy is working well for you Russ :tu:
it must feel like such a relief?
A bit...I'm not as energetic as I thought I'd be but that might come in time. And the mask can be uncomfortable at time. But the progress is there and I'm going to stick at it for sure.
Been speaking to my mate today Russ, he's got it and got all the mask set up the whole shooting match, he's only been putting the mask on wrong, the holes that were meant to go over his nose have been on his forehead.:D:D:D:D I dearnt tell you what I called him, it must have worked because he's been a different person since he's had the mask on. He's looking forward to tonight when he'll wear the mask the right way.:D
How is it going Russ..getting your energy back?I note you were up early this morning so I hope that's a good sign. ;)
laptopsrd
10-06-2009, 14:22
I was just about to post the same question! I've just been for my annual check on the machine and they've replaced it with a ResMed S8 Escape II its TINY! compared to what I used to have. No i have to start and work out how i can get a battery unit hooked up so i can go to festivals again. :)
It's difficult to get used to the new machine but I'm slowly getting there. The snoring has gone completely though. Not feeling particularly better but after my brain going in to survival mode each night for 20 years it will take time to adjust apparently.
See you were up and about the site this morning Russ.I hope this is an indication you are getting your energy back?:)
Hell no. It's really hard getting used to the mask, sometimes I can't get to sleep at all with it on. Reading on various apnea forums it looks like I've been given really poor fitting and usage advice for it but the problem is the nurse in the sleep study ward is one of those 'I know best' types and it seems regardless of what I tell her, she simply ignores me so when I go back next week for a follow up appointment I'll ask to be seen by the doctor in charge of the department.
Hell no. It's really hard getting used to the mask, sometimes I can't get to sleep at all with it on. Reading on various apnea forums it looks like I've been given really poor fitting and usage advice for it but the problem is the nurse in the sleep study ward is one of those 'I know best' types and it seems regardless of what I tell her, she simply ignores me so when I go back next week for a follow up appointment I'll ask to be seen by the doctor in charge of the department.
Sounds like a plan..and you need to get it sorted as it's your health,not hers.
I hope you can get sorted soon.:)
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