Question:
Can unsuccessful CPAP fitting stop WLS?

Last nite I went to get fitted for my CPAP which is needed for sleep hypopnea's (shallow breathing) and after four hours of several attempts with differant styles of mask. I was not able to sleep more than a few minutes before waking in a panack. As if I was being sufficated. Can and will this prevent me from getting the WLS? The technician told me that the hypopnea's where moderate and my oxygen drops to 80%.    — BECKY M. (posted on April 6, 2000)

April 6, 2000
I also have sleep apnea but have no problems at all with the mask. It has been a miracle in my life, enabling me to live and function normally during the day. There are many people who cannot tolerate the mask, so you're not alone. Try putting the mask on while you're just sitting up on your couch without the machine on. (Sitting up will make you feel less vulnerable and more in control.) Now, what exactly bothers you right now? Is the mask too tight or too loose around your face? Is the mask material soft or does it feel like hard plastic? Does the mask head band bother you - is the material too rough? Ok, now put on the air flow. Is the flow blocked improperly in any way? Concentrate on breathing regularly. Try hard not to panic. The mask is NOT suffocating you (unless the airflow is blocked somehow). Get used to this and lay down on your couch as if you were lying in bed. How does it feel? My machine has 2 start buttons that begin the air gradually. The first button releases the air pressure slowly over 5-10 minutes. The second button releases it over 20 minutes. Many patients like this feature. I only used it the first 2 nights, and since then I haven't needed it. It's to the point that when I don't have the mask on when I'm in bed, I "feel" something is not quite right. I would also suggest you check out sleep apnea websites (there are many). They would probably be able to offer good advice as your problem is not unique. GOOD LUCK:)
   — Paula G.

April 6, 2000
Hi Becky. I too am on a CPAP mask. I have only been on it for about two weeks. The first couple of nights I slept like a baby. But lately, I have been pulling of the mask unconsciously. I wake up to the sound of "air" spraying all over the place. My doctor told me that after a lot of weight has been lost I may NOT need the CPAP mask. So, I would say that your being on CPAP would not affect your WLS. Good luck to you!
   — MissAuntieK

April 6, 2000
I might have a solution for the CPAP. Have then try cutting the fow down . I had the same thing and once they slowed the air push down itworked fine. I dont even need it anymore now. Good Luck
   — snicklefritz

April 7, 2000
Correction THat was supposed to be flow not fow.
   — snicklefritz

April 7, 2000
Just for your information, you can use something else besides a mask with the cpap machine. They are called "nasal pillows" which is a polite term for little nose plugs attached to a headpiece. The "pillows" fit snugly into your nostrils and eliminate the mask over your face. I used these nasal "pillows" instead of the mask and did very well. They were much more comfortable and worked just as well. The medical equipment supplier should have told you about this other option-it's worth a try at least. PS I'm 3 months post op and don't need the cpap anymore!
   — Fran B.

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