British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association

I have been using cpap for approximately seven weeks and have not got used to it yet. My sleep has not improved and I am still waking regularly, still very tired during the day as well . I had a follow up appointment about three weeks ago and was given a full face mask opposed to a nasal mask that I was initially issued with. This was a disaster and I only managed about 50 minutes as it was uncomfortable and noisy, I have continued to try and just can not get on with it. Feeling very down about it as I don't think there will be anything else that the centre can do for me and I just don't think that I will ever get used to using cpap. Ideas and suggestions very welcome.

Hi Dibley and WELCOME!

Some of us adjust very quickly to using our machines. Others take longer. There's no competition! We all get there in the end, so please don't put extra pressure on yourself. To learn that you have a serious and unexpected health condition, plus a lifetime of treatment that can make you feel very different to everyone you know is likely to make you feel low. Don't kid yourself it isn't a shock and a big change in prospect. It is. But you will adapt. You are already well on the way to reducing the risk of your having a heart attack or a stroke in your sleep to a normal level. That's a great start.

It often takes time and several masks before a person finds one that feels comfy. Talk to them about your experiences with the full face mask. They may suggest a chin strap with a nasal mask or a hybrid mask with nasal pillows and a small mouth mask. They can check that you have the right size of mask for your size of face. And they can take the time to answer your questions and hopefully reassure you.

Rome wasn't built in a day. Don't feel that you've failed because you don't feel at ease with your new situation after only 7 weeks. That's only a drop in the bucket compared to the length of life you still have to live!

I had what turned out to be an unsuccessful time with a full face mask - because it didn't make the situation any better and I returned to a nasal mask. But it took me even after 11 years on CPAP a good fortnight to be able to relax enough to get to sleep with my full face mask.

Tell the clinic all your worries. You won't be thought of as being stupid or difficult. Only when the clinician knows the full extent of what's bothering you can he or she give you full and personal advice. Good luck and keep in touch.

I have been on it for a year and while it goes on like clockwork I often wake up with it off.

I have tried lots of things (dont try gaffer tape - it works but it hurts) and I think I have finally cracked it for me.

I had the mask too loose. Meant a bit of movement meant a shot of air hitting me in the eye and waking me to the extent I ripped the mask off.

I have now tightened it (to the point of it being just bearable) and with no air escapes I have found its stayed on every night for the last week.

Would also advise using the humdifier and ensuring its full every time.