I need one. Id be happy to pay the shipping 
Julie in NJ

Please DO NOT adjust the pressure settings on your own .... that can make things so much worse in the long run.  Call your Doctor .. If you feel you need a higher setting please let a professional come out and do it.

Also if you tamper with the machine and there is a problem ... insurance may not pay for the repair or replacement.


As far as the dry mouth from mouth breathing goes ... I know this will sound silly but get a chin strap.   I wore it for the first 3 weeks I was on the bipap and it trained me to keep my mouth shut when I sleep. 

I have been on the bipap now for 6 years and I couldn't sleep without it.   I  love my machine :)

I forgot to mention that, at some of the support groups, they get representatives from the respiratory therapy companies that provide the CPAPs and assorted paraphernalia; they're a valuable resource for information.  Also, the group, or sometimes even the reps, give out samples if you tell them that you're having a problem with your current mask.  It pays to make friends with them! 

Good luck.

The number of hours that you sleep are not indicative of good, restful sleep.  If you do not go into REM sleep for the appropriate length and number of times, you will definitely feel tired.  That kind of fatigue also leads to obesity and depression.  If your brain can't work properly, then neither can the rest of you.

You definitely need to see an allergist and not give up until you get the right medication for your particular needs.  Don't be intimidated by the doctor but simply let the doctor know what you've tried and what has happened as a result.    I've gone through a number of sprays, pills and inhalers and have used them singly or in combination.  Different times of the year require a different regimen.  I suggest that you keep a daily log for a year so that you know what's going on during the different seasons.  (A room humidifer would probably help, but you must be sure to keep the tank clean and free of mold.) 

You should also be sure that the water reservoir, tubes and mask of your CPAP are kept immaculately clean.  You could be infecting yourself with mold if it is allowed to grow in the tank and/or the tubes.  Clean it with plain white vinegar on a daily basis.  Also, make sure that you only use distilled water in your reservoir.

There seem to be a number of apnea doctors in your area, and I would check with them about a support group.  The place where you were tested should also have information.

Please feel free to contact me if you want to "chat".  Also, take a look at these links to see if they're of any help.  Good luck.

http://www.healthgrades.com/local-doctors-directory/by-speci alty/sleep-medicine/california-ca/stockton-sleep-medicine-do ctors

 http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Pacific.Sleep.Disorde rs.Center.209-465-5731

Ariela,
Thank you so much for the information!  This is so new to me  and with surgery coming up within a couple months it's a little overwhelming.  Good info.  I'm going in this morning to get my VPAP, so it should be interesting,