New Machine- scared to use it.

So I started getting used to the mask today. It wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. It was still at low pressure 4 to 5, but after a few minutes I was wondering if it was even on or not, that was exactly right.

The key is keeping my mouth closed. If I open it or try to talk I feel the air coming out- it's an unusual feeling. Then even closing my mouth doesn't seem to help, I have to take the mask off and start over or the is a "pressure bubble" in my mouth.

I got the mask to fit as well. I made some customization to the strap.

http://i.imgur.com/vjGY8Z2.jpg

THank you all again!

I love it when a plan comes together!

While you are practicing, place your tongue on the roof of your mouth just behind your top teeth and breathe in through your nose. This will seal off your mouth and direct the air where it belongs. After a while you will do it automatically and the air bubble, which we also call chipmunk cheeks, will no longer happen.

If at some point you find that you're unable to keep your mouth closed and not leaking, you might need to go with a full face mask that covers both your nose and mouth. (FFM) Tape or chin straps can sometimes help with mouth leaks while using a nasal mask. Good luck taming the beast !

When you get a chance could you put your equipment in your profile? That way it will show up every post and help people to know. This explains how.
wiki/index.php/Registering_Equipment_in_User_Profile
This site might help you find your machine. https://sleep.tnet.com/cmd
After you have completed it, if the machine doesn't show just place it in the signature area. Some of the links are broken.

WOW... you have the same feeling I had 2 months ago when I started. I would rip that machine off as fast as I could when I felt it was suffocating me! I too, now have to feel if there is any air coming through. I decided I could do without it when I woke up at 4am... then my soft palate would drop and I would startle... I guess I really can't sleep decent without it now! It took me about 8 days to make peace with the beast... and I start the process while awake... which is an excellent idea. You really should have had a tech come to set you up and explain all the features... that was a big mistake on their part, I feel. I'm a nurse in a nursing home and get people with machines in periodically. I now know so much more about them from using one! Once I learned about all the diseases that can be affected by untreated Sleep Apnea... I'm a big supporter!
Best of Luck to you on your journey to reclaiming your life!

Blessings,
Debbie

Thanks again, added equipment info to profile.

Last night was first night with the heated air tube, also first night I managed to get 4 hours of use.

Waiting for the data to upload to the Res Med website... we have been unplugging it since it was in the way when I finished using it, today it's been plugged in a few hours since I woke up but no data yet.

You should download and install SleepyHead software :

https://sleep.tnet.com/resources/sleepyhead

then you can take control of your therapy and become part of the solution

I have found a Cervical collar around my neck is a big aid to keeping my mouth closed, and also keeps my head up in a better position to keep my throat open and help prevent arenas.