After my Sleep Apnea Diagnosis came the hard part. The fitting of the mask. A few weeks after the diagnosis, I had an online appointment with the sleep center. They asked me a bunch of questions and then told me due to supply chain issues, I would have to wait 6-8 weeks for the machine to arrive. Who knew Sleep Apnea machines were in high demand!? I wasn’t surprised because isn’t everything back ordered due to the Pandemic? I also got zero sleep knowing that my breathing was compromised, so it played a big middle finger to my psyche.
I received the mask and tubing the next week, which wasn’t helpful since I couldn’t even use it, but I patiently waited and waited and waited until finally 6 weeks later the machine arrived. Naturally, the box was usurped by the chief box inspector within minutes.
Fast forward three weeks from getting the machine, and it’s been an absolute nightmare! How are people expected to get a restful night’s sleep with this thing attached to their face!? It’s loud, the humidifier spits water all over your face, and it’s uncomfortable. So far, I’ve tried four or is it five now, different masks, and after A LOT of extra sleepless nights, my work suffering, and major blowups with family members, I think I’ve found “the one.”
It’s not as Hanibal Lecterish as some, and it doesn’t force a blast of air directly up your nose so hard that it forces you to open your mouth so you can literally feel air coming out of your mouth suffocating you. Is this how dragons feel? This new way of life is just beginning. I’m not excited about it and partnered with some Vitamin D, I’m finding I’m able to be more alert and take fewer naps for less time. Well, see how this adventure goes. Not holding my breath…..(see what i did there)
Balancing Cat 