Anyone out there with mainly central apneas that has to use an ASV machine?
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I think we have a couple of members with more centrals Elianna. How are you finding the ASV machine?
Quite honestly I'm find the ASV machine to be terrible. I've had it almost 2 months and have yet to sleep with it on more than 3 hours, and most nights not that long. If I fall asleep quickly, before the pressure changes start kicking in I can leave it on for a while. But, sometimes the pressure ramps up early on and constantly jolts me awake, which leads to a lot of frustration b/c all I want to do is sleep, so I take it off and end up in the recliner. It's really quite miserable. If anyone has any tips, suggestions, or encouragement I would greatly appreciate it!
The ASV machines take a bit of getting used to compared to the CPAP/APAP and the secret is to to relax to try to 'breathe with' the machine. It may be that you need the settings tweaking regarding the comfort and with an ASV I certainly wouldn't try adjusting it myself. If you can work towards gaining good therapy this is certainly the machine that will treat your centrals, and unfortunately most people needing this kind of therapy just don't get it offered to them.
Good luck, and look forward to hearing your progress.
Elianna Halsey said:
Quite honestly I'm find the ASV machine to be terrible. I've had it almost 2 months and have yet to sleep with it on more than 3 hours, and most nights not that long. If I fall asleep quickly, before the pressure changes start kicking in I can leave it on for a while. But, sometimes the pressure ramps up early on and constantly jolts me awake, which leads to a lot of frustration b/c all I want to do is sleep, so I take it off and end up in the recliner. It's really quite miserable. If anyone has any tips, suggestions, or encouragement I would greatly appreciate it!
Thank you, Terry, for the advice. Right now the ramp feature is not programmed to be used on my machine (Respironics Bipap auto SV Advanced). I do have an appt. on Thurs. and am planning to ask if it is possible to program it so I can use the ramp feature when needed. I was going to ask for a short term Rx for ambien, but am a little hesitant for the very reasons you listed. Maybe I will try the Valerian Forte and see if it helps. I seem to be having victory with getting to sleep with the machine, initially, but have not been able to get back to sleep after removing the mask and then trying to put it back on. Maybe the herb would help with that. Again, thank you for the advice!
Terry Vella said:
Elianna, You should be able to change the ramp setting, I use a Resmed Autoset and can have mine between 0 and 30 Mins, my pressures are set at 4-12 so it doesn't move from 4 for the first 30 mins. It is difficult to get used too but does get better over time if you persist with it and really you don't have many other options. Dp you take any meds to calm you, I take Valerian Forte which is herbal, non addictive and leaves me clear in the morning. I used to be on prescription meds and they didn't work and I felt groggy the whole of the next day and started getting clear when it was time to take my next dose. Stick with it and let us know if you need anymore advice.
Did you have a sleep study utilizing the ASV machine?
Terry, I think it's FANTASTIC to see you posting and helping people so much. I remember when you were new to CPAP and now you're well on the way on your successful journey. It's so lovely to read how you're encouraging others - just what these forums are about :)
Terry Vella said:
Elianna, one of my issues with CPAP was getting over the fear of having something covering your face especially in the middle of the night when it is dark and cold. You will get over it eventually. Try the things that are being suggested, you seem to have a positive attitude towards CPAP and that will get you a long way, keep reminding yourself that it will make you better if you persist. Good luck and ask any questions anytime.
Wow, that's a change in the weather - sounds worse than it is here, as it's fairly mild so far, but have bought my new wellington boots ready for some snow (sun and snow are my favourites). Drive safely, and look forward to hearing how your consultation goes. Meanwhile, Good Night from the UK.
Terry Vella said:
Thanks Kath, I'm seeing my Sleep Dr this afternoon for my first 6 month formal review, so looking forward to discussing my results with him and have a list of questions. The last time we spoke it was 40c here, right now it's 14c and hailing and as windy as anything and it's the middle of summer here in Melbourne and I have to drive to the city to see my Dr.
Yes, I did. Had the same issues in the sleep lab and assumed I would be able to eventually work through them with time. Maybe I just haven't given it enough time.
RockRpsgt said:
Did you have a sleep study utilizing the ASV machine?
It's encouraging to hear that things will get better eventually. I definitely want them to. I am tired of being tired. I have a nine year-old that I homeschool and a two year-old who is very, very active, as well as a two year-old nephew whom I babysit. I really need some more energy, as well as the assurance that I'm not doing further harm to my body by not breathing at night. I want to be here and be healthy when they grow up, which I know I won't be if I don't get this under control. Again, thanks for the advice.
Terry Vella said:
Elianna, one of my issues with CPAP was getting over the fear of having something covering your face especially in the middle of the night when it is dark and cold. You will get over it eventually. Try the things that are being suggested, you seem to have a positive attitude towards CPAP and that will get you a long way, keep reminding yourself that it will make you better if you persist. Good luck and ask any questions anytime.
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