(Not) sleeping next to CPAP - Help!

[MyOtherProfile]

DH just got a CPAP machine. 3 nights in and I've barely slept a wink. It's so noisy and the noise level varies so it's not even like I can just adjust to a constant noise. I'm trying was plugs tonight but firstly I hate to miss any sounds from the children if there's a problem and secondly I can still hear through the was plugs, especially when the tempo and volume change.

Has anyone worked this one out? I would rather not go down the route of separate rooms.

Could you put it on a timer?

I have a habit of taking mine off in the night, the hospital are happy if I can have it on for 4 hours. It won't reduce the noise but at least you could get a few hours sleep.

The nice people at the hospital can also alter the programming, taking out the 'ramp' which is possibly the change in sound you are hearing.

Could you put a cardboard box over it? It would still be able to work but might dampen the noise a little. Also what is it standing on? A hard surface is most stable but doesn't absorb any noise, a couple of rubber / soft placemats or a folded towel could help.

Another thought is to have some other noise to mask it, my dad 'listens' to radio 4 extra through the night, he sleeps well so he's not really listening.

You do get used to noises. I moved to London and the first night I woke up every 10-15 mins after 4 am - I happened to be living near the bus terminus and they were starting their shift.

After a couple of days I was sleeping through it.