Getting used to your CPAP machine through desensitization.

While different doctors recommend different techniques to get used to CPAP, any method is correct as long as you are comfortable and are able to use your machine.

CST uses the following methos of desensitization in our offices when you recieve your CPAP machine:

Step 1 - Position yourself comfortably, perhaps in a semi-recumbent position, leaning back a bit.
Step 2 - Check for signs of nasal airway congestion or obstruction by listening as you breathe deeply through your nose. First breathe through both nostrils, then each side separately. If there is too much congestion, ask your doctor to prescribe a nasal spray or other treatment.
Step 3 - Turn the machine on with the ramp activated.
Step 4 - Hold the mask up to your nose, applying a seal intermittently until you become accustomed to the feel of breathing through the mask. Reactivate the ramp as needed.
Step 5 - Judging by your comfort level in the above activities, determine when to apply the entire set-up on your nose. You may be instantly ready, or it may take longer, especially if you feel claustrophobic or feel like it's too much pressure.
Step 6 - Place the device on your face. If you feel reluctant, try this without the tubing attached. Make sure that you know how to remove your mask quickly, and make certain that the ramp button is within your reach.
Step 7 - Allow the pressure to increase while you practice breathing slowly and evenly. You may want to reactivate the ramp, or use a longer interval, if needed.
Step 8 – Make sure that you get your questions answered, reassure, and discuss any additional desensitization techniques with the person installing your equipment.
Step 9 - Once you achieve your highest initial comfort level make sure that you can remove the mask and to turn off the device.

Ongoing Desensitization Program

Even after the initial equipment installation process, you may continue to have difficulty adapting to the therapy. In these cases you should continue with the Ongoing Desensitization Program.

Step 1:  Wear the nasal mask at home, while awake in the evening and when performing normal evening activities, for about one hour daily. When this can be done for five consecutive days, then go to Step 2.
Step 2:  Connect the tubing to the CPAP unit and turn the CPAP unit on. Put the mask on, and breathe through it at home while at rest, for one hour daily. When you can do this without anxiety or concern for five consecutive days, then go to Step 3.
Step 3: Wear the CPAP apparatus, with the unit turned on, for a scheduled one-hour nap. When you can do this without anxiety or concern for five consecutive days, go to Step 4.
Step 4: Wear the CPAP unit, with the power turned on, for 4-5 hours of sleep each night. When you can do this without anxiety or concern for five consecutive days, go to Step 5.
Step 5:  Wear the CPAP unit throughout the night. If you have a setback, go back to the previous step that was completed successfully and begin again. Keep this up until you can sleep with the mask and CPAP machine on all night, every night.