Let me just say that I too do need to lose weight, but I more than likely had apnea before I gained weight , so it's likely that losing weight will not help. That being said - I accept my fate on the CPAP machine for the time being. So let me say this about the CPAP:
Many people find they cannot deal with it. Having something on your face, blowing air through your nose to keep your airway open is initially uncomfortable - this is a fact. However, (and this is to the gentleman above who said he couldn't get used to it as well) - there are MANY types of masks available now, and the newest models are extremely comfortable AND UNINTRUSIVE.
The traditional type of masks are plastic and cover the entire nose. Many people are completely successful with these. However, for those who are not there are alternates. The first is called the Breeze - and it is basically like a walkman headphone - except it goes from the front of your nose to the back of your head - never touching any part of your face but under your nostrils. This allows you greater freedom of movement because now you can lay with the side of your face on the pillow. The other one - which I was succcessful with - is the Nasal Aire. This looks similar to those tubes you see people who are getting oxygen - tubes go just up into the nostrils, run across your face and behind your ears. I found this one the most comfy because the rubber is extremely soft and I can really "bury" my face in the pillow like I used to before using the CPAP.
It took me almost 6 months of trying different masks and two sleep doctors until I finally got a mask I could use without issue. It is really trial and error and can be very frustrating, but once you get one that works and can sleep the whole night with it on, you'll be amazed at the results.
Anyway - I wanted to let you know that - as well as Sanackranib - I feel your pain - but know that there ARE new masks out there that are extremely comfortable and unintrusive.
To see a selection of masks - check out
www.cpapman.com
--*Rob
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