CPAP/BPAP: I think I have to bite the bullet

[Guest guest]

Greetings Folks,

Could use some input from those of you who use either CPAP or BiPAP while

sleeping. Although I've been fortunate not to have to use any equipment thus

far, I'm pretty sure that time has come to an end. A little about me: I'm 47

and have SMA 1; have noticed lately that no matter how many hours of sleep I

get, I still feel exhausted and sometimes feel dizzy in the mornings or wake

with a headache. After doing some research, I found these symptoms are all

linked with sleep apnea.

What I'm wondering is how you've adjusted to sleeping while wearing the headgear

required by either the CPAP or BiPAP? As most of you probably understand, I've

only got a very few comfortable positions and it's hard to imagine any of them

with that headgear! Also, I'm concerned that if I start using the equipment, my

breathing will get weaker because it is being aided for so many hours every day.

My philosophy has always been to rely on assistive devices as little as possible

so that I don't lose what strength I do have any sooner than necessary. Another

question I have is what the pros and cons are of the CPAP vs. the BiPAP. I

understand the different ways they function, but am wondering if one is more

comfortable than the other, and why one would chosen over the other. I'm really

trying not to be in denial about this issue, so any of your experiences and

input will be invaluable to me! We are all different, but it will help me to

know how others overcame this obstacle if only to remind myself that I can find

my way over it, too.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

Ellyn