So you have just started your sleep therapy trial. Sleep apnoea treatment can be daunting. A mask that feels claustraphobic, connected to a machine that pushes air down your throat. Don't worry we are here to help you. Common concerns from new CPAP clients are: Sores on the bridge of the nose or the face Usually it suggests the mask is to tight or is not fitting correctly. You may need to come in for a fitting technique appointment. At the appointment we will get you to put on the mask, showing us how you are fitting it. Nasal congestion or Dry nose This often occurs in the first few weeks of using CPAP, using a humidifier should help, if you are using it already you may need to turn it up slightly. Sometimes a nasal spray may help. Bloating Usually occurs because you are a little anxious and swallowing air, it generally happens in the first week and resolves itself as you settle into CPAP. If it persists it may be due to your prescribed pressure, in which case you should contact your sleep physician. Sore Chest This usually happens in the first week and as long as it feels like workout muscle type soreness it should resolve itself in a few days. If your pain is sharp or you are worried about it you should see your Dr. Water in mask or whistling in tubing Check the heater plate is working?, check what the temp is set at? (May need to be turned up slightly) Is there adequate heating in the room? Do you need to try insulating the tubing? Finally not Coping We will help you through your concerns, what your going through is common, it will get easier and the benefits to your health and well being will far outweigh the initial discomfort.

You have had your first return consultation You have had your first return visit to see our sleep consultant. Hopefully it's all going well The consultant probably downloaded your first set of results and discussed your change in pressure to a "fixed" pressure You shouldn't notice much difference as it all happens whilst you sleep. Should you wake during the night your machine is designed to decrease its pumping to a minimum and only resume pumping at the set pressure once you fall asleep again. We know CPAP can be daunting so If you have any questions at all please contact your consultant. We are here to help.

You have had your second return consultation Hopefully it's all going well The consultant probably performed a download and discussed the results with you. I'm sure that you can see that the CPAP machine is having a positive impact on your health. 1. Better sleep - You will know this without the consultant telling you 2. Less irritable 3. Improved blood pressure and sugar control. The consultant probably also discussed a mask change to a different type. Maybe trial a nasal mask? Your trial is soon coming to the end. It will soon be time to think about your medical condition and whether this form of treatment is for you. Ask yourself am I ready for the financial commitment? A CPAP machine is an investment in your health and sanity. Whilst the initial outlay can seem daunting (about $1795 for a standard setup) this actually equates to a very small cost of $1 per day* over the next 5 years How can I afford this? We have payment plans available that can decrease your outlay to only $100 per month. (Plans range from $100 to $500 per month) We are here to help and we know CPAP can be daunting so If you have any questions at all please contact your consultant. * Machine and mask approximate cost $1795 over 5 years (1825 days)