what am i doing wrong?

i"ve had slepp apnea for years and have never been able to wear the cpap. Ive tried everything...differant masks, sleeping in the recliner, lower pressure, higher pressure... I recently got a full face mask and it seemed to be easier to tolerate. I am very claustrophobic, but I talk myself through it and usually am able to fall asleep with it on. However the minute I fall asleep i either wake up ion a panic like Im suffacating or I take it off without ever knowing it. What can I do to keep this thing on? I have to get used to it. Any suggestions? Mary B

You could try taking some night quil to help you sleep do it several nights in a row to get use to the CPAP unit. Do you have a heated humidifer? That May help also. Other than that call you primary doctor.

Have you tried the Mirage Swift mask? Make sure you are keeping your mouth closed if you are not using a full fase mask. I personally could not stand a mask over my nose, so I use pillows. Do a google on the mirage swift. Also, make sure you have a heated humidifer. Does the air feel as if it is putting out enough air?

or you can go to Resmed.com to see all the whole Mirage line... if mouthbreathing a chinstrap may also help.....

I'm with you Mary. I've just never been able to get used to it. I have a Bipap and use the Swift pillows rather than a full face mask, buy I just can't sleep with it. I end up staring at the ceiling all night. I've even tried Nyquil and all it did was make me "dopey" all the next day but still couldn[t sleep. Ive finally given up