New to CPAP? How to Get Comfy with Your New Sleep Buddy

Reading time: 8 minutes

What’s inside?:

• Why Does Using a CPAP Feel So Awkward?
• It’s Okay to Feel How You Feel
• You’re Not Alone… Seriously
• Getting Comfortable with Your CPAP
• Talking About It… Yep, It’s Time to Chat with Your Partner
• Adjusting to Sleeping with a CPAP
• Common CPAP Challenges (and How to Deal with Them)
• Embracing Your New Normal

 

For many of us, getting a sleep apnea diagnosis can seem like it takes forever.

Until we finally get the diagnosis, then realise there’s another long wait before we get our hands on a CPAP machine to start treating our condition.

When we finally get our machine, it can initially seem like it’s the answer to everything.

We’re handed this box of lifesaving kit and we’re all excited to get stuck-in… until we try using it for the first night. That’s when we realise it isn’t as easy as pressing a button and suddenly we breath okay overnight.

Using a CPAP machine can feel a bit like stepping into a world you never asked to visit. I mean, who really wants to admit they need to wear a mask to bed? And if you’re feeling embarrassed or awkward about the whole thing, you’re not alone. Loads of people have been where you are now, and yes, most have come out the other side better for it.

So, let’s chat about why you might be feeling this way and how to get more comfortable – both with the machine and the idea of using it.

 

Why Does Using a CPAP Feel So Awkward?

First off, let’s break down why having a CPAP machine might feel so… well… weird. There are a few reasons this could happen… and they’re all totally normal.

• The sleep apnea label
  Sleep apnea isn’t exactly something people love to talk about. It’s often seen as an ‘old person’ problem or something tied to snoring (which people love to laugh about). So, getting a CPAP can feel like admitting we have this medical thing no one really wants to have. Which is true… nobody really WANTS to have sleep apnea!
• The mask situation
  It’s true to say, CPAP masks aren’t exactly catwalk-ready. Whether it’s a full-face mask or just something covering your nose, it’s a big change from sleeping with nothing on your face. And yes, it might make you feel a bit self-conscious at first… especially with someone else in the bed.
• The sound and sensation
  A machine blowing air into your face all night is a far cry from how you’ve been sleeping your whole life. It’s a big adjustment, and it can feel really odd at first. Plus, depending on the machine you’ve been supplied with, there may be some new background noise to get used to.
• Dependence on a machine
  Needing a machine to help you sleep? That’s a tough pill to swallow. It can feel like a loss of independence, and that’s not something anyone loves to admit. But, as we’re about to see… having that machine puts us among the lucky ones.

 

It’s Okay to Feel How You Feel

Let’s be real here – feeling embarrassed, frustrated or even a little freaked out about your CPAP machine is completely normal. The important thing is to acknowledge those feelings. You’re not going to get past them by pretending they’re not there. So, let’s give ourselves a break and recognise that it’s okay to feel a bit off about this whole thing.

 

You’re Not Alone… Seriously

Here’s a little something that might make you feel better: you’re far from alone in this.

Sleep apnea is ridiculously common. We’re talking about millions of people around the world who are using CPAP machines every night. Think of it this way – you are part of a massive club, and every single member has had to get used to this at some point. If they can do it, so can you.

And remember the bit about being among the lucky ones?... Research indicates around20% of the human population have sleep apnea. However, around 80% of those people are believed to be undiagnosed. So, simply being one of those who have successfully received a diagnosis AND been supplied with a machine that can help mitigate much of the problem… that puts us into the lucky basket. It could be much worse.

 

Getting Comfortable with Your CPAP

Alright, now that we’ve acknowledged the awkwardness, let’s talk about how to actually get comfortable with your CPAP machine. It’s all about baby steps.

• Spend some quality time with your CPAP
  Before you dive into using your CPAP all night, spend some time with it during the day. Wear the mask while you’re watching TV or reading. The more you get used to it, the less foreign it’ll feel when it’s actually time to sleep.
• Customise your setup
  Did you know you can tweak your CPAP setup? From different masks to cushion sizes, and even accessories like strap covers and mask liners, there’s a lot you can do to make your CPAP feel more like yours. It’s like making your sleep machine a little more ‘you’.
• Take it Slow
  If the idea of wearing your CPAP all night is overwhelming… start small. Wear it for short periods and gradually increase the time. There’s no rush. What matters is moving in the right direction.

 

Talking About It… Yep, It’s Time to Chat with Your Partner

For some of us, it was the nudging of a bed-partner that made us seek a diagnosis in the first place… so some of the ice-breaking may already be done. For others, it’s just another conversation in a safe place.

Let’s face it… talking with anyone about your CPAP could be tricky. But isn’t it better to get it out in the open?

• Be upfront and honest
  Just lay it out there. Explain why you need the CPAP and how it’s going to help you. Most people, especially those who care about you, will want you to be healthy and well-rested. They’ll likely be more understanding than you think.
• Make it a team effort
  If you share a bed, your partner’s part of this journey too. Involve them. Show them how the machine works, ask for their input on how to make things work best for both of you, and keep the conversation going.
• Focus on the positives
  Remember, the CPAP isn’t just about getting through the night… it’s about improving your health, reducing risks of serious conditions and boosting your overall quality of life.
  
  That’s something to get excited about.

 

Adjusting to Sleeping with a CPAP

Now that you’re warming up to the idea of using your CPAP, let’s talk about how to actually get a good night’s sleep with it. It’s a process, but you’ll get there.

• Find your perfect fit
  A comfortable fit is key to using your CPAP without feeling like you’re in a wrestling match with your mask. Work with your healthcare provider to find the right mask and settings for you. It might take a few tries… and that’s okay.
• Tweak the settings
  If something doesn’t feel right… like the pressure or the airflow… don’t just tough it out. Speak with your sleep professional and agree on what adjustments need made. Small changes can make a big difference.
• Create a sleep-cosy environment
  Your bedroom should be a sleep sanctuary. Consider trying a CPAP pillow if you think it could help, keep your room cool and dark and eliminate distractions. The more comfortable your surroundings, the easier it’ll be to adjust to your CPAP.
• Patience, Patience and eh… Patience
  Getting used to a CPAP can take time. Be kind to yourself and don’t expect it to be perfect right away. You’re doing something great for your health and that’s worth the effort.

 

Common CPAP Challenges (and How to Deal with Them)

Even when you’re getting used to your CPAP, there might be some bumps along the way. Here’s how to handle a few common issues:

• Dry mouth or nose
  This is pretty common, especially with a nasal mask. A heated humidifier, a full-face mask, or both, might help. There are other products that may be worth trying, such as a saline spray or a mouth lozenge before bed. You don’t know if it will work until you try it.
• Skin irritation
  If your mask is causing skin issues you might need to adjust the fit or try a different mask. Mask liners can also help reduce friction and keep your skin happy but, if mask liner reviews are any indication… finding one that works can be real hit and miss.
  
  One thing to consider, if you wake-up with mask-shaped indents in your face, is whether your mask is too tight. A sleep practitioner once told me a mask should sit like a hovercraft against your skin. Making contact… but light-contact.
• Mask leaks
  Leaks can be frustrating but they’re usually fixable. Check the fit of your mask…
  Are you using the correct size mask?...
  Are the cushions clean (everyday cleaning clean?)?...
  Are the cushions worn-out?
  
  Another one to try could be your sleep position. Does one position create less mask leaks than another?

 

Embracing Your New Normal

Eventually, your CPAP will become just another part of your bedtime routine and the awkwardness will fade away. When that happens, you might even start to feel proud of how far you’ve come. After all, you’re taking charge of your health and that’s something worth celebrating.

• Look on the bright side
  Sure, using a CPAP might be a bit of a hassle… but the benefits – like better sleep, more energy and improved health – are worth it. Keep your focus on the positives.
• Celebrate the small wins
  Whether it’s making it through a full night with your CPAP or finally finding a mask that fits like a glove, celebrate those small victories. They all add up to a big win for your health.
• Stay focused on the big picture
  Remember why you’re doing this. Your CPAP is a tool to help you live a healthier, happier life. The more you focus on that… the less any small annoyances will matter.
• Connect with others
  If you’re still feeling a bit off about your CPAP, consider connecting with others who are in the same boat. Online forums, such as the Cracking Sleep Apnea Facebook group, support groups or even just chatting with a friend who’s been there can help you feel more at ease.

 

Final Thoughts… You’ve Got This

Adjusting to a CPAP machine can feel like a bit of a journey, but it’s one that is worth taking. It’s normal to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable at first… but those feelings will pass as you get more comfortable with your machine and start reaping the benefits of better sleep and improved health.

So, give yourself some grace, take it one step at a time, and remember—you’re doing something amazing for your health.

Before you know it, using your CPAP will be just another part of your routine and you’ll be sleeping better than ever. And who knows… You might even start to appreciate your little sleep buddy… stranger things have happened!

Here’s to better sleep and a healthier you!

 

Cheers,
Alan

 

P.S. I have taken to creating various bits on sleep and sleep apnea. If you would enjoy hearing more and find out where else you can find stuff like this, you can get my weekly Triple Whammy email, which has 3 short topics each week. Some written or recorded by me and others I’ve found out there in the strange world we live in.

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