HELP, Sleep Apnea Questions!

I was told I have moderate sleep apnea. The other thing I was told is how it would dramatically improve with WLS. So, I do not understand the necessity of this darn CPAP machine. I also am claustrophobic as well and do not even want this thing on my face at night. I'm afraid they will force me to have it or not do the surgery. My pulmonary doctor is the one who insists and if he doesn't clear me, my WLS surgeon will not do the surgery. I don't want to have breathing problems after my surgery, but how is it different than just giving me oxygen. I do not breathe deepely as it is, it's been that way since a prior surgery 2 years ago for a hysterectomy. I would like to think I have a choice without putting myself in danger. CaroleM

I don't think having sleep apnea will delay your surgery. I have sleep apnea and as long as you use the cpap they provide you with you shouldn't have any problems. I think the problem arises when people with sleep apnea don't use their cpap machines. Sleep apnea can cause serious strain on the heart and lungs and with the cpap machine can alleviate that problem. I think they also need to know about your sleep apnea because everytime I've had surgery, my oxygen levels will drop a little and that lets the nurses that it's your sleep apnea, not respiratory distress/complications. Hope this helps.