When I went to my first apt. my doctor mentioned this sleep test. How do I know if I really need it and what is the main reason? I mean I feel like I sleep ok most nights! Angela Still waiting to be approved!!!!

Congrats Shelley on surgery. I saw my pulmonary doc and he told me to check back after losing 75 lbs. I have lost 69 and let me tell you I have felt cholstophobic (mispelled) th elast 2 weeks and have slept wonderfully without the machine. I for one never missed a night without it beofre but it was horrible it kept waking me up sooo I plan to call and et up an appt. Good Luck!! Brenda 325/310/241/152 4 mos.out

Joanna, Hi...I just got my cpap machine a couple weeks ago. I got mine thru Apria. If I remember correctly, there is an adapter that you can get to take it camping with you that runs on batteries. I think you can get it thru them or thru Radio Shack. Good luck.... Patty

The sleep apnea itself is not a problem during surgery as you will be intubated which keeps your airway open. The problems come up after surgery with pain meds and after-effects of anesthesia. You will be more likely to stop breathing than people without apnea. That's why those of us with sleep apnea usually require hospitalization when others might go outpatient or need intermediate care unit or ICU when others go to the floor. We need someone to watch our breathing and oxygen levels. Pulmonary problems caused by smoking are another issue. Smokers tend to have a harder time waking up after surgery and possibly may need to stay intubated on a vent for a period. This greatly increases risk of surgery. These problems depend on the extent of damage to your lungs, a factor of how long and how much you've smoked. This is probably the main concern of the pulmonologist. Quitting will definitely help, whether you already have permanent damage or not. Caryl

If you are still mouth breating with the machine on then you might need a full face mask. If I have "mouth breathers" then I usually place them on either a full face mask that covers the nose and the mouth together or use a nasal mask with a chin strap. If you are using CPAP and sleeping with your mouth open then it's only 50% helpful. The air pressure will take the path of least resistence and shoot right out your mouth instead of through your airway. You can contact your home care provider and tell them your situation. They can refit you for a mask and also look into a new machine for you before you are committed to buying it. Good luck!