Obstructive Sleep Apnea and TRT

[Deleted member 43589]

I had sleep apnea back as far as I can remember. Never really though much about it but I did notice over the years I was having trouble staying awake. Even while driving. My wife finally talked me into getting a sleep study done. She said she was scared I would die in my sleep because I literally quit breathing and then almost go into convulsion from the lack of oxygen.

I fianlly did the sleep study in 2013. I scored a 52.2% efficiency rating. 34% of my sleep was deep and NO REM. Oxygen saturationwas an average of 86% with a low of 78%. Of course I was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. I have very shallow breathing incidents (140 lasting 29 sec). I stopped breathing 15-29 times a hour.

Every morning I woke up like I had not slept, groggy and horrible head aches. From that point on I have used the CPAP and feel rested and don't fall asleep everytime I stop moving. No more morning head aches. My SPO2 is an average of 98 and sleep scores in the 80's consistantly. The most important thing is my wife can finally sleep too.

 

[Dr.V.P.C.]

Great info here.
OSA is the simply the biggest neglected issue in masculine health over 40 .
Lots of measures avaliable nowadays , but at the end of the day CPAP eventually will be the life changer.

 

[Nelson Vergel]

From that point on I have used the CPAP and feel rested and don't fall asleep everytime I stop moving. No more morning head aches. My SPO2 is an average of 98 and sleep scores in the 80's consistantly. The most important thing is my wife can finally sleep too.

Hey @BigTex

What kind of machine and mask (or nose pillow) are you using?

 

[Nelson Vergel]

I asked ChatGPT:

What are the best autotitrating CPAP machines and masks for best sleep apnea patient adherence?

Answer:

Auto-titrating CPAP machines, also known as APAP (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure) machines, automatically adjust the pressure settings throughout the night based on the user's breathing patterns. These machines are designed to provide the lowest necessary pressure to keep the airway open, improving comfort and compliance.

Here are some highly-rated auto-titrating CPAP machines available up to September 2021:

1. ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet: This machine is known for its quiet operation, user-friendly interface, and advanced data tracking capabilities. It also features an integrated humidifier and a variety of comfort settings, including pressure relief and ramp time adjustment.
2. Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto CPAP: This device offers advanced data tracking, adjustable pressure settings, and a sleek design. It also has a heated humidifier, ramp time adjustment, and pressure relief technology for added comfort.
3. Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle Auto CPAP: This machine is known for its easy-to-use interface, built-in humidifier, and compact design. It also offers advanced data tracking and various comfort settings, such as pressure relief and ramp time adjustment.

When it comes to masks, the "best" option varies depending on the individual's preferences, facial structure, and sleeping position. It's essential to try different styles to find the best fit and comfort for long-term adherence. Some popular CPAP mask types are:

1. Nasal masks: These masks cover only the nose and are suitable for individuals who breathe primarily through their nose during sleep.
2. Nasal pillows: These small, lightweight masks seal at the base of the nostrils, providing minimal facial contact and a clear field of vision.
3. Full-face masks: These masks cover both the mouth and the nose and are suitable for individuals who breathe through their mouth during sleep or those with nasal congestion.

Popular mask brands include ResMed, Philips Respironics, and Fisher & Paykel. It's essential to work with a healthcare professional or a sleep specialist to find the best combination of auto-titrating CPAP machine and mask to ensure successful treatment and adherence to therapy.

Auto Titrating CPAP Explained - The CPAP Shop: Blog Article

An auto titrating CPAP machine provides comfort and highest value over time even though they are a bit more expensive. Read about auto titrating CPAP.

www.thecpapshop.com

 

[Deleted member 43589]

Hey @BigTex

What kind of machine and mask (or nose pillow) are you using?

I have a ResMed Air Sense and a Fischer and Paykel SleepStyle. The ResMed is my favoriet. I have a facemask. I agree, ResMed is VERY quiet. The other one is like a thrashing machine.

 

[Dr.V.P.C.]

Great Nelson, i have this one and it is exactly this .
Really worth the value ! ( I prefer a nasal mask since pillows hurts badly my nose skin )

1. ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet: This machine is known for its quiet operation, user-friendly interface, and advanced data tracking capabilities. It also features an integrated humidifier and a variety of comfort settings, including pressure relief and ramp time adjustment.

 

[wondering]

I have mild apnea. Could never find a mask that worked, but finally one came out that works well for me. But, after watching this YT channel from an ENT doc in England, I realize for them to work properly you need to be able to breath thru your nose or the pressure wont be comfortable. Also, breathing thru your nose increases NO.

Many people wont tolerate CPAP until they have a septoplasty/turbinate reduction to improve nasal breathing. In fact, septoplasty/turbinate reduction can increase libido and improve ED all by itself... Does surgical treatment of nasal airway obstruction improve sexual functions? | The Journal of Laryngology & Otology | Cambridge Core

So, after seeing an otolaryngologist/facial plastic surgeon that is my next step as I have a eviated septum and enlarged turbinates. That can also help my allergies and sinuses as they can also cause reduced libido and ED.