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Topic: Can Sleep Apnea Persist After Wls?
I am 9 months out and almost 100 lbs down, but still snore loudly without my cpap. Has anyone ever continued to have sleep apnea after such a big weight loss? Thanks for any experiences you care to share! -Vickie in CA
Topic: Could I really feel better after only one night on CPAP?
Maybe its all in my head, but I think I already feel much much better! No falling asleep at work, or at red lights. I feel like a dark cloud has been lifted! Anyone else feel better this fast?
Topic: RE: Why do I need to have the test
Angela - Here's my story.
In preperation for WLS, I heard about sleep apnea and the problems it can cause after surgery. I have been having episodes of waking up in the night with a gag/choking feeling for about a year. I had gone to teh doc, the did a scope down the throat.... and said it was nothing I was fine. NEVER mentioned sleep apnea.
Then I heard a horror story of someone who had WLS and actually died (I think twice) because she had undiagnosed sleep apnea. She had all kinds of problems and was in the hosptial a while before she got better.
So, I went to my PCP and said that I wanted the sleep study. Went into it thinking that it was to rule it out. But after the test, I was actually diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and hyponea. I now have a cpap machine. I know that this could very well have saved my life.
So get the test done, and if you don't have it then GREAT!!!!! But if you do, then the hospital will be able to take the appropriate steps to insure your health when you have WLS or any other surgery.
Good luck
Laurie
Topic: RE: Low oxygen levels anyone?? Help!!!
A quitting idea: I quit smoking a couple of years ago without even trying. It was a side effect of an antidepressant I was taking (Wellbutrin). It took awhile to realize it, but I was "forgetting" to take my smoke breaks after about 2 weeks of being on Wellbutrin. I didn't crave a cigarette in the middle of paperwork, etc. The usual habit times (after eating--with a ****tail) were still a struggle after a few months, but not so strong that I had to have a cigarette!!! I've been off the Wellbutrin for over 18 months now---the BEST thing is, when I did cave to a craving and tried a cigarette--it tastes AWFUL!!! You might talk to your doctor if you're open to trying meds.....it worked for me and it wasn't even my intent---just a NICE side effect! Linda
Topic: RE: Nasal Aire II Mask - still not working!
funny- I have used a mask for many years, decided to try nasal pillows about a month ago. I don't like them! I wanted to get away from having the straps on my face that hold the mask in place. But I find the nasal pillows are noisier. Do you think I might need a different size? I can't get thru a night with them. I have gone back to my mask. Anyone else have a problem with lots of whistling noises?
Topic: RE: Nasal Aire II Mask - still not working!
My doctor prescribed Ambion (a sleep aide) for me to use while getting used to the CPAP. I use Nasal Pillows instead of full mask. It really helped. I've been using the machine since the end of December. I usually have it on for about 3 hours, take it off an hour put it back on for about 3-4 more. I feel rested when I get up and don't get sleepy during the day. I had a bugger of a time just getting through the sleep study, took me three tries to get enough sleep time in. Didn't think I was claustrophobic, but anxiety level went way up. I felt like I was underwater, scuba diving and did NOT like the sensation one bit! Best wishes, Karen
Topic: RE: Why do I need to have the test
Hi Phillip, I don't think I snore that bad. But my husband does complain alot! 
I do feel a good night sleep is 9 hours. I guess I get it checked out anyway. Thanks Phillip.
Angela 
I do feel a good night sleep is 9 hours. I guess I get it checked out anyway. Thanks Phillip.
Angela Topic: RE: Why do I need to have the test
I had a sleep test done in 1996 and got a CPAP then. Probably the best way of knowing if you have sleep apnea is how bad your snoring is. Mine is so bad that I keep people awake several rooms away. If for some reason my CPAP is not working I can't get to sleep at all because my own snoring wakes me up. If you're waking up very sleepy or sleep 9 or 10 hours a night just to feel rested, you probably have sleep apnea.
Phillip Sharp
[email protected]
Topic: RE: CPAP Machine
Thanks so much for the advice, I took everyones suggestion and changed to the nasal pillows; so much better than the mask. I don't feel so claustrophobic, but have to really think about my breathing when I first place the headgear on. I can now sleep on my side and am in heaven! I don't use the ramp feature either as it makes me feel like I am not getting enough air. Maybe if I started the ramp at around 8 instead of 4, it might be a little better. The only problem I am having is a little nose irritation. Any suggestions?
Rhonda
Topic: RE: CPAP Machine
Rhonda,
Try the nasal pillows. I have this type of mask and the same machine as you but my pressure is higher. I sleep on my stomache or side and I am claustrophobic and the full face masks make me panic. In fact I had a panic attack at the sleep study when they told me I had to use the full face mask.
Needless to say, they changed me to the nasal pillow. I just passed the two year mark with my machine and I don't leave home without it. I do not use the ramp up at night, I start off with the full pressure.
Basically, you just have to find what works for you.
Lise
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