Sleep Apnea after WLS!

Hello Everyone, I am new at posting to this message board. I am 11 months post-op, also down 114 pounds, and I found out last month that I have sleep apnea. I had been having really bad headaches in the mornings and my doctor sent me for a sleep study. I have been on the CPAP machine 3 weeks tomorrow. I feel as if I am still getting use to the machine and the mask. I was just wondering if there were others here on the board that found out they had Sleep Apnea after they had WLS and lost alot of weight. If there are others I would appreciate some feedback from you on how long you have been on the CPAP machine and how you feel. I am still having some headaches, although not every morning now, and I am wondering if anyone had headaches like me and it took a while on the CPAP machine before the headaches went away. Thanks!!! Becky P. 271/157 (3 pounds below Dr's goal)

Hi Becky, First of all, congratulations on the weight loss! I haven't had surgery, but I have been using a CPAP for a few months now. I, too, had headaches when I woke up and wondered how the heck you get a headache when you are asleep. I now know it was from the sleep apnea. My sleep apnea isn't that bad compared to others (my machine is set at 8). At first I didn't notice that much of a difference and while I still have not had the wow moments some have had with the CPAP there are some things I have noticed since using it. I seem to be able to sleep for longer periods of time without waking and I definately am not choking in my sleep like I used to. It would feel like my throat was closing and I would choke and stop breathing and wake up. I don't have that anymore, Thank God. As far as the machine goes, give it some time. That's the advice I got and I've found it to be true. I'm still getting used to the mask, and some days it just feels like it will never fit right. I've also had some trouble with the chin strap irritating my skin (See my other post below). But I do know that I feel better when I use it so I keep using it. There are also different kinds of masks, etc. you can try so it's all about finding what works best for you. As the tech who came and set up the CPAP machine for me said, "Welcome to the club!" Good Luck!

Lisa, Thanks so much for your reply!! My sleep apnea isn't that bad either, my machine is set at 6. I don't have a chin strap, I think I am doing okay without it. Now the first couple of nights I kept opening my mouth but now a few weeks later I probably only open once a night or so. Maybe I will call and get one I will see. I have the mask that fits into my nostrils. My nose hurt so bad the first week but now it isn't to bad, I guess I am getting use to it. Thanks again for all your advice, it is much appreciated!!!! Becky P.

Becky, sorry I'm a little late I just discovered this message board. However, I have had sleep apnea and have used to CPAP machine for 12 years. Concerning your nostril problem I discovered saline gel a couple of years ago. My latest nasal mask, and the best fit todate sometimes irritates my left nostril. The best approach I have found to applying it is a little "squirt" of each nostril. I then close off the nostril and kind of work around and make sure it's covering the needed areas. Hope this helps Patrick

Hi. I had the same problem. I was diagnosed after losing 165 pounds. I had actually taken my son for a sleep study. After filling out the questionaire I thought wow the answer was yes for me. I asked my primary and she suggested I do the study. My son was fine but I was diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Narcolepsy Excessive Daytime Sleepiness. The Dr.said the part of my brain that sends signals to my throat to stay open is actually damaged because I had to so long and it was not treated. I tried the CPAP about a year with no luck. I was finally fitted for a Mandibular Dental Device. Have trouble with that too. The Dr. had given me Lexapro which is an antidepressent to help me relax with the machine. It upset my stomach so I stopped. I take Ambein now and it helps me get to sleep at least. I'm actually going to try the CPAP again tonight because I've had such a hard time sleeping lately. Couldn't even go to work today because I was exhausted. So it looks like I will be on this for life. I'm about 25 pounds from my goal weight. Good luck with everything.