help :(

[baz5]

I have tried the c-pap with different masks and prongs and i just cant seem to get used to it.  My sleep was getting worse and worse because of the anxiety and discomfort it brings.  I decided to stop using it but now...about 1 year later, my BP is now at "hypertensive" and I just dont sleep through the night anymore.  I really dont know what to do.
I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, Hashimotos, Hypothyroidism, CFS.  I am taking Cymbalta 60 mg, Levothyroxine 50, Amlodipine 5mg, Aspirin 325mg, Vitamin D.  I am 38 years old and have already had a stroke.

Any suggestions?  Im soooo tired :(

[MrsCuz]

Hi, it is not an easy thing to get used to but due to the health risks it is really important that you consider treatment again. I am a Sleep Physiologist and we set patients up on CPAP and provide assistance if they experience any issues. It would be worth speaking to your healthcare provider, there are new masks being made available on the market, is your CPAP machine an automatic unit or a fixed pressure. If it is fixed pressure, it may be worth using the ramp facility as it steps the pressure up gradually. An automatic unit will vary the pressure just to suit your needs. Some of the machines use an option called C-Flex which makes the expiration easier as it drops the pressure during this phase.
What in particular did you find difficult, was it just the pressure or were there issues with dry throat or nose, a humidifier will help make this more comfortable.  Hopefully some of this will help you. The research shows you need a minimum of 4 hours per night to get benefit but sometimes it is easier to build your usage over a period of time. Try for 2 hours every night and then gradually increase the usage over a few weeks.

[KatEyes]

I too had a difficult adjustment to the cpap equipment, and even quit for a while. But, like you, health concerns made me revisit treating my OSA. I don't know exactly what you you are saying when you say "tried", but for me, the second time around I was very purposed that I would do whatever it took no matter how long it took. I really believe it was "do or die" for me. Over 5 years later, I can't say enough about how much the cpap has helped me. It has given me a sense of living instead of dying. Well worth all the hassle. I was fortunate to find a forum where experienced cpap users offered support and tips for getting thru the adjustment phase. For a long time now it has been second nature. Maybe you could "try" again.