Cathy
Message 1 of 1
I was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea about a year ago and have been using a CPAP machine ever since. I have a number of concerns...My doctor tells me the disorder is under control with the machine and that I am not a candidate for surgery to correct the problem. So far so good but,I can't imagine living like this for the next 50 years!!! How can a doctor ascertain what patients are likely to benefit from surgery or not...???? Also, a friend heard on a local newscast that sleep apnea can actually cause patients to gain weight because since sleep is compromised, hormones and messages are not being delivered correctly re:digestion, metabolism, etc. Is there any truth to this theory?? When I first started with the CPAP machine, within the first few weeks of usage I noticed an increase in my energy level however, now a year later, I don't recognize the level being the same...and yes I have been retested and have had my pressures checked and sometimes altered. So can the effectiveness of using a CPAP machine max out?? I keep expecting to be more and more energetic yet somedays I still find myself dozing off when I shouldn't be!! Lastly I am sometimes disturbed by the effects of wearing my nasal mask...it seems that about once every month or two, I develop an extreme irritation at the bridge, sides of my nose and on my forehead. I use a standard ResMed Mirage cushion that also has forehead supports...My theory is that facial oils get trapped in my pores because they are not able to breathe properly through the mask's materials. Consequently I end up sporting enormous irritations on my face...this weekend my forehead looked like half a red golf ball was glued onto it and wow was it sore!! I appreciate the time and effort that will be taken to address my concerns. I did attempt to forward this directly to the manufacturer but was unable to access its website. Thank you!!