CPAP for moderate to severe sleep apnea can be life saving. You may need some help and coaching to make it work well. The biggest problem is the interface – how to connect the machine to your nose or mouth. It may take some experimenting with nasal pillows, nasal/mouth mask or even a full face mask. Different manufacturers have different styles, shapes, etc. The one above is a popular “nasal pillow” device from Respironics.
Resident Sally Soest is our local expert having written a book for patients with sleep apnea with Dr. Ralph Pascualy. She notes that patient adherence to CPAP is often due to lack of education and support. In addition to following closely with a sleep specialist she recommends viewing this educational support site.