how does one get used to a cpap?

Please help me with tips on getting used to using the cpap at night.  I'm having a really tough time but I know I should use it like the doctor orders.  I already take sleeping pills on most nights.

I had a hard time with mine too...it sucks. My only advice is to put it on like 15-30 min before your bedtime and get used to it while your awake..that helped me. I would put it on and watch like a 30 min show, it kept my mind off the thing and then when I was ready for bed I was used to the breathing and the feel of it. It does take some time though like 6 weeks! Hope this helps.

yeah I'll try that next time

I did the same thing - watched tv wearing it until I got sleepy. I would also read sometimes, but now that I have a different mask I can't wear my glasses to read. If you keep at it you will more than likely will adapt.

I'm still trying to find the right mask. I had an allergic reaction to the pillow mask that fit in the nostrils. I have a mask that fits over my nose, but the straps and the part that goes across the forehead is so painful (I have fibro as well) and now I'm uncomfortable. With each new mask that I try I have to start over in learning how to sleep with it on.

prayer and a sleeping pill

You might try different kinds of masks, to see if you do better with one over another.  And you might ask your doctor if you could use BiPAP instead of CPAP, so that there isn't as much pressure in the exhalation phase.

I agree with checking out different masks.  I used one called a pillow cushion.  I also wore it when I was in bed watching tv and on my laptop.  It helped me get used to it plus I did breath better when it was on.  I got to where I didnt like being without it....

I have the full mask and HATE IT! Next time the company calls about it asking if everything ok, i am going to ask for the PILLOW one which just is for the nose. I End up midway during the night taking the mask off as i feel like im going to suffocate!

Try a amara mask made by respironics. I'm an RT and getting good results with it. Also make sure your spring setting is Max out at three. Good luck

Try asking for a machine that has a "settling" mode. This starts the machine at a lower pressure and gradually increases over a set number of minutes. This way, you get to sleep at a lower pressure and by the time it reaches the desired level, you are asleep...hopefully. =)

I used to have the bipap and it was on a pretty high setting, but the settling mode increased over 45 minutes. If I tried to put the mask on at the desired pressure, I would gasp for air!!!! So, the settling mode saved me!

Now, the machine is set at a lower pressure and as a cpap--and it settles over 20 minutes.

Hope this helps!
Best of luck,
Heather