What They Don’t Tell You About CPAP Machines

When I got my CPAP machine and began to use it, there was a learning curve, like with anything.

On the packaging, I think they make it look really pretty. In reality, I don't think I'd want anybody to see me in it.

You have a face mask that goes over your face and nose. You have a cord that hooks to a-- I guess you would call it like a pump.

And it's not the most attractive thing in the world.

SPEAKER 2: Like a crazy elephant, but in a smaller version. This one looks even stranger than the one I have.

It's going to take at least you-- a couple of weeks to get used to the mask being around your face and tight.

Actually, this is probably better than the one I have.

You have the hose that attaches to the mask, and you know, you get tangled up in it like a snake at times.

It's kind of awkward when you turn at night. Sometimes you have to toss it up over the sheet.

Kind of uncomfortable initially, but once you get used to, it's just another fact of life.

Now when I wake up in the morning, I have red on my cheeks and it's a little swollen here.

You have to get the right adjustment. It could even be too tight or too loose. Too loose, you're going to lose the seal around your face. Too tight, you're going to have more of the red marks that come up on you in the morning. Find a sweet spot in it, and it doesn't take long.

It takes a little bit getting used to, because it's a health issue. I think it's very important that if you have a machine, you should allow it to assist you.