Life is interesting sometimes. For example, when I was younger, topics of discussion ranged from work, sports, and fun activities to things going on with the family. Now, as I get older, topics tend to lean toward medical procedures and politics, and even the weather.
Naturally, as you age, you require more attention from medical professionals. Those can include your doctor, surgeons, and dentists, not to forget those helping with physical therapy.
I’ve come to find out that as a person ages, he/she tend to pay more attention to what those medical professionals are saying, and what they suggest to keep their body more healthy.
At least 30 years ago, I was told that I snore when sleeping. I believed it because there were occasions when I’d wake myself up with the noise I was producing. About that same time, I was told I stop breathing when I’m sleeping. I had no reason to doubt it, but I figured my body wouldn’t let me stop for any extended periods of time, so I didn’t worry much about it.
About a year before we made our move to Florida, my doctor in Cold Spring suggested I participate in a sleep study – one that could be done in the comfort of my own bed. I did, and the results showed exactly what I suspected: I had sleep apnea. At that time, my dentist in Richmond suggested I try an apparatus he would fit me for that would help move my lower jaw forward during sleep. I agreed and tried it, and it helped – or so I thought. Eventually, that device didn’t fit my mouth so well, so I abandoned it. I figured what I needed was a C-Pap, but I also doubted I would ever be able to sleep with a mask over my face all night.
Fast forward to a few months ago when a neighbor friend of my wife’s asked if she thought I would benefit from a C-Pap (they must have been talking about their husbands, and their husbands’ snoring). The friend’s husband had been convinced he should get one, but when it arrived, he decided it wasn’t going to work for him, and he never opened the package. It was offered to us at no cost. Not one to let a bargain pass her by, my bride said “YES” to the offer.
I kept avoiding the use of this new machine. I was still convinced there was no way I was going to be able to sleep comfortably with this mask covering my mouth and nose. Besides, I had proof, my brother tried one and it didn’t take long before he set his aside and quit using it.
Time went on, and during my annual “wellness check” with my doctor, I decided to bring it up. She ordered a sleep study – the kind you have to go to an office and get wired up – after you meet with the sleep doctor for a consultation. During that first visit, the doctor and his assistant took a look at my brand-new, never-used C-Pap, adjusted some settings, and told me I could start using it right away, even before the sleep study.
I went to the store and bought a gallon of distilled water and tried using my new sleep aid that night.
During the first hour or so, I almost tore the mask off my face and said, “The heck with this,” but I fought the urge and decided I needed to give this new piece of equipment an honest chance.
It’s been ten days (actually nights), and now I’m convinced I won’t be able to sleep without this new machine. I know I sleep better. I know I’m less tired during the days, and I haven’t had night sweats since I started breathing forced air. I don’t even roll over as often as I used to, so I know this new machine is helping me get better rest at night. I’ve also been told I don’t make all those noises I used to, so I’m pretty sure this new machine will be a part of my ongoing life.
A C-Pap isn’t for everyone, but if you or your loved one snores at night, you might want to think about checking one out.
Have A Good Week!
