I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnoea in 2009 and have been using CPAP since then. If I remember correctly the test I was given then showed I was waking up on average 140 times every hour (I didn't think that was possible thinking there are only 60 minutes in an hour!!). I use my CPAP machine every night because I do not get any restful sleep without it, the problem is that although I'm sleeping better than before diagnosis and do not snore I don't think that I am sleeping as well as I should. My CPAP machine appears to be too old to attach any modern technology or apps - it's S8 11 escape - My Fitbit indicates my restful sleep is on average 4.5 hours (I've been using since last October). The machine is checked every year and the clinic is satisfied that I use it regularly, the pressure was adjusted when I said that I did not think that I was sleeping well, but does not seem to have made much difference
I have asked for another test, I will collect the equipment for an oximetry test next week, use it at home overnight and take it back the next morning. Is this the only test available?
Am I correct in thinking that the oximetry test shows how many apnoeas you have during the night, I was told that if the test showed that things were within acceptable limits that I would be referred back to my GP. I want to arm myself with enough information to ask the relevant questions at the appointment therefore would appreciate any suggestions ,information or shared experiences.
Can anyone confirm that my model of CPAP cannot have anything attached to it in order that I can monitor the situation myself, they say information from the Fitbit is not acceptable, i don't know how reliable it is, the setting show periods of restless but I'm not certain if it this means genuine restlessness or its because I'v come out of restful sleep by an apnoea. I've just taken the information as an indicator that something is not quite right.
Any suggestions on what else could be affecting my sleep if it's not the apnoeas? I doubt my GP will have much expertise on this subject.
This situation is having an effect on other aspects of my health and self confidence therefore any feedback would be welcome.
Thank you