I have sleep apnea myself and my husband actually suffers from Narcolepsy so we both us a CPAP machine. Use of the machine has made both of our lives much easier. It is a small inconvenience for the greater good that it provides.

We joke that should a burgler come into our bedroom they would be frightened off because he would see 2 "aliens"!!!!!

I have been using a CPAP for 16 years and have had much success. The key is to find a mask that fits properly and doesn't leak. Unfortunately, I am a restless sleeper and move lots, so finding the right mask has proved difficult. There are many new and innovative masks and machines available now, so try them until you find one that's right for you. Most suppliers have rental masks that they will let you try for a week (no charge) until you find the one that suits you.

There is also a specialty dental appliance available that is supposed to stop sleep apnea by moving the bottom jaw forward. I spent $2500.00 to have one designed/made thinking it would be more comfortable and provide more freedom - it did absolutely nothing and was painful. In my opinion, you should stay with the CPAP, as recommended.

I have had sleep apnea and used a machine for over 10 years. I don't use a cpap though I use a bypap as I have a hard time exhaling with the cpap. I also use just the nasal pillow as I couldn't get used to the mask covering my nose and mouth. I take mine on vacation with me and even camping. We bought a Dc cord to interchange with the AC cord and it doesn't use very much power to run from the battery.

Hubby has CPAP for apnea. He sleeps better and I sleep better because I'm not laying half awake to catch him not breathing. :thumbup:

I also have sleep apena (sp) Have used a cpap for about two years now. I sleep so much better now. I hang my hose over the wall lamp and it helps keep the extra hose off the bed.

I would look for a message board similar to this one.

I have used one for 15 yrs. I kid my husband and tell him that if I had to choose.......he'd be in BIG trouble! I was so severe that I never had an issue. I use the mask that covers my nose. Good luck...it's worth the effort.

I was asigned the bi-pap. I just could tolerate the mask. I am a mouth breather and had to use the full mask. I finaly was swithced to oxygen concentrator and just the hose. They insist it is saving my life--but I cannot tell it.

My husband has one and it's such a vast improvement for him. He has a large one and a smaller one. He now justs use the smaller one (newer model and easier to travel with).

You are giving me ideas for my next retreat!!!
I appreciate this thread because some people might be embarrassed about having to wear a machine at night and this helps bring it to light that it's really not a big deal.