For those who can’t tolerate the CPAP machine has anyone had success with any other…?
Question by unwonted: For those who can’t tolerate the CPAP machine has anyone had success with any other…?
…anti-snoring devices?
Hi, I have a CPAP machine for a mile case of sleep apnea but it isn’t very comfortable. I’m wondering if anyone would recommend any of the other devices available such as a mouthpiece, chin strap, special pillow, or any other device or method you may have tried? Thanks
Best answer:
Answer by Beth
It is always important to follow the instructions of your physician – some types and degrees of sleep apnea can be helped with other devices than the CPAP machine but if you were prescribed the machine, it is probably because nothing will quite do the trick.
I have tried all of the items you suggested and eventually they did not work sufficiently to help me to continue to breathe at night.
I know that the CPAP isnt the most comfortable piece of equipment, but you do get used to it (we are very adaptable, we humans) and for me, it has given me the best sleep ever in my life.
I would clearly see if your physician thinks you can make the substitutions.
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4 comments
jaquez on November 5, 2010 at 11:28 pm
I have a friend who uses a machine and a roommate who works at a sleep clinic. I’ve heard the machines have evolved quite a lot in the past few years. If you machine is a few years old, maybe ask your doctor for a new one. ??? Good luck!
advocate on November 5, 2010 at 11:42 pm
I’ve tried an expensive dental device ( torture for even a minute ),
now this week, a CPAP machine (have not been able to get to sleep at all with it on! ).
You might try getting an ear-warmer headband and running it from your jaw to your balding spot.
There’s a $69.95 version of this for sale on just about every internet page. Most users think it’s a ripoff, although maybe worth it if it stops your snoring.
cosy on November 6, 2010 at 12:36 am
you can start to investigate. But definitely talk to your primary care doc, and anyone who would have been involved with your original sleep study. There are different reasons for apnea so narrowing that down, would help you narrow down your best alternative/s.
http://www.alternativetocpap.com/ has the journal reference for the original research that suggested there were other things that could be done
http://www.snoringisntsexy.com/ detal interventions of various types, from mouthpieces onwards.
http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/reports/lung_disorders/1532-1.html?type=pf
about pillar palatal implants
One thing for sure, though is to remember that sleep apnea is a potentially LIFE THREATENING condition, and NOT ‘just snoring’.
best of luck!
Mary on November 6, 2010 at 12:37 am
Cpap is not the most comfortable thing but it is life saving. Try a humidifier. You can do a dental device that advance the jaw that works for some people. Bipap is helpful and more comfortable but I would just Suck it up and stick with it.
I feel so much better with it than with out it that it is worrth the headache. Pap user for almost 10 years.