Chin strap did it for me after that I was fine. BCBS will pay for a new mask every 6 weeks and a hose replacment. Mention this when you speak with you medical supply company. Goodluck Randy

Hey folks, I've been using the CPAP for about 3 months. Generally I have been doing ok with it. For the past 2 weeks I've been waking up several times a night and in the morning with the mother of all dry mouths! I see from some other posts that this happens to others. I know that my mouth is opening and air is blowing out. I am still breathing thru my nose but some air is leaking back and going out my mouth like a constant exhale. So based on the replies to other posts I'm thinking I should try a mask that covers my mouth and nose. I have BCBS and they paid for the machine. My question is who do I call? Should I call the company who brought the machine to my house? Any advise on what to ask for? Thanks DC

I believe its on the high side. It doesn't mean your sleep apnea is bad it just means that is the pressure it takes to keep your airway open. I am at a 7 and getting bumped up to 9. I have moderate sleep apnea. Dana

To answer your question...yes, Sleep Apnea can cause headaches...specifically morning headaches when you wake/shortly thereafter. BUT there is different research that suggests it isn't a very good indicator of OSA Here is some information that showed up after a google search on Sleep Apnea and Headaches-- Another cause of headaches is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a dangerous disorder that can cause high blood pressure, strokes and heart attacks. It's also the most common cause of excessive daytime sleepiness, weight gain, impotency and, yes, headaches. If you awaken in the morning feeling unrested, and if your throat is dry or sore, or, if you wake most mornings suffering from a dull headache that's hard to shake, then you may be a victim of sleep apnea. Other symptoms are loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, jerking awake during the night and unrefreshing sleep. If you suspect that you may be suffering from sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about having a sleep study. There are ways to treat the disorder. The most common treatment is the CPAP machine and mask. Sometimes surgery is the answer. Much depends on the severity of the disorder. The dull morning headache may not be the only headache brought on by sleep apnea. People with this disorder are not getting the deep, relaxing sleep they need, and sleep deprivation is also a cause of headaches. Other sites http://www.postgradmed.com/issues/2002/03_02/attarian.htm Great Study with stats/% http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/150/6/1265 http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_apnea.htm You must have a prescription for a sleep study and that will determine what level if any CPAP or BiPAP is needed to keep your airway open. You cannot get the equipment on your own and the machines aren't cheap. Most insurances will pay for a new mask every 6 months (est $100 +/-) Home Health Care companies set the equipment up and maintain it. It is possible to have your insurance cover the sleep study...skinny people also have Sleep Apnea so that isn't a guarantee that it is only your weight causing your problems but chances are significantly high that is what the cause is....esp with your BMI. Does your insurance treat high blood pressure? Diabetes? Those are both related to weight. I can see them not covering surgery but they should treat the subsequent side effects. It is worth a try...have you even attempted getting it covered?

Hi Shannon, I have not had a study done yet, but my husband tells me I snore really really bad! I take Ambien every night or I DON'T Sleep at all period! Is that a problem when you go to have the study? will they allow me to take my meds? I worry that I'll go to get it done and never go to sleep! Also how much is it to get done? Will INS. pay for it? sorry for all the ???'s And thank you for all the advice!!!! Kathy