CPAP Compliance

I went through TWH, and not sure what centre you're through. But... 

I got my CPAP, used it for a month, and then never touched it again until after surgery. I couldn't hear my children in the night (I have a toddler and a preschooler)...  It was too dangerous - I'd wake up to them climbing on me in bed - before the CPAP they never left their rooms.  

TWH asked me if I used it, I said "I did for a while, but I couldn't hear my children wake in the night." And they said so long as I used it for the nights I was in the hospital after my surgery, that was fine.  So I used it for two nights. 

Since then it's been sitting in my closet. I think I can be tested in February to see if I need it. 

Also, I have (most likely now had) 'mild positional' sleep apnea - meaning it is only detectable if I sleep on my back. Not severe at all. 

I'm going through Windsor. Good to know they are understanding of certain situations. It's too bad you couldn't hear your kids, but I  would have done the same thing you did if I had kids.

Hopefully when you get retested you won't need it anymore.

Thanks for the reply. Good luck to you.

I will say that I have had my CPAP for years and have had to make accommodations during various times throughout the years. I feel that it has helped with colds and sinus issues. It has a filter and heated hose and humidification. All of those things help keep dust and allergens out and oral mucosa moist. If I read your post correctly, you are concerned that if your nose is stopped up how will you wear it and be compliant. If I have a cold, I will use Afrin for a few nights to open me up and let the machine do it's thing. Normally I use a plain saline spray at night because I struggle with seasonal allergies. If you automatically open your mouth, a chin strap may be needed for awhile. In the states, most insurance companies monitor your use for several months until they finish paying for the CPAP.  They are looking at number of hours used and # of nights used to come up with an average that shows you are using it consistent way. My sleep specialist reads the card yearly to see if my settings are where they need to be. Keep using it and you will become more comfortable with it . If you have issues call and get support form the medical supply that fit you.