How much does sleep apnea affect your mental state
Hi my name is Audrey, 43 single mom and was diagnosed last August with severe sleep apnea. At the time I was relieved to find out why I was feeling the way I was. First tried the full face mask it was suffocating so then switched to the nose pillows. When I manage to keep the head gear on all night I do wake up usually feeling much better..some days its hard to tolerate it. Today I am really dragging even though I had 7 and a half hours with my cpap last night. Sometimes I worry about my cognitive functioning and being able to do all that I should be able to bc I am so tired. I have a full time job and alot of the time I just feel exhausted and people tell me that I look exhausted. So Im feeling down bc of all of this...and how can I find someone ( romantic wise) who is going to be able to understand be empathetic ect bc of this problem...
Hi Lori, I have been wearing a CPAP mask and using machine for 23 years. Recently, I’ve been advised by the VA that I am in eligible for the inspire device.
Do you have any knowledge of anyone that has had that implanted and how they like it or dislike it? Is it effective?
I have moderate to severe sleep apnea, but it would be wonderful after 23 years and not have to wear the mask.
Hi
. We have not had a lot of feedback about Inspire since it is so new, but the feedback we have received has been mixed. Here is an article about someone who found it lifechanging: https://sleepapnea.sleep-disorders.net/living/inspire-implant. Here is one who had a terrible experience and warns against it: https://sleepapnea.sleep-disorders.net/forums/inspire-2. I would definitely recommend doing lots of research first and talking with your doctor about the benefits vs. the risks. Personally, if I could still tolerate a CPAP machine, I would probably wait a few years to see whether any significant issues develop or whether improvement are made. I can understand why you would consider it though. You've slept with a mask for an awfully long time. Let us know what you decide, if you don't mind. I will be thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member)
This was excellent answer and excellent question
Hi
. Have you ruled out all other factors that might be contributing to your fatigue? My husband was so excited to get his CPAP because he was always tired, day and night. At first, it seemed to be the solution, but he later realized it wasn't enough. He talked to his primary care doctor who tested for nutritional deficiencies that impact fatigue levels - Vitamin D, B vitamins, folic acid, iron. His Vitamin D levels were horribly low even though he spends a ton of time outdoors. His skin just doesn't produce it. Within a day or two of starting Vitamin D, his energy levels had improved tremendously. For my son, it was B12. He is vegetarian and that is a common deficiency for vegetarians. If you haven't already, you might also consider going back to the medical supply company and asking them to test the fittings of your nose pillow head gear. There are so many different masks out there. This might not the right one for you. I hope you get lots of input on the dating issue. Here is an article from one of our advocates who was diagnosed as a young adult: https://sleepapnea.sleep-disorders.net/living/cpap-dating. I thought it might interest you. I think you will find that many people you might date also have CPAP machines, especially as you move into your late 40s and early 50s. It might not be as big an issue as you might think. If someone loses interest because of it, then maybe that is not someone you want in your life. I hope this helps and that you get lots more responses. Best wishes. - Lori (Team Member)
