To use a CPAP machine without

[WalltoWallBtards]

A diagnosis? Overweight, bad snorer and DP is about to kill me. Have tried various things for snoring. Am currently spending most nights on the sofa.
Feel tired in day and like I’m suffocating at night sometimes so think I probably have sleep apnoea.

AIBU to just buy a machine without bothering with GP and sleep clinic and all that fuss? Anyone else just gone and for one? Any downsides, other than the comfort thing with them??

Thanks for the ( mainly) helpful advice! Lucky enough to have both the NHS and the option to go private. But will start with the GP as in my experience, even in the U.K., it’s way better and more trustworthy than people making money off everything they suggest…

Hearing about peoples experience of apnoea I’m also wondering if I even have sleep apnea as there could be other reasons for not sleeping as well as I used to…
And as for why I didn’t want to go to the GP - I hate all medical stuff bordering on phobia so will avoid when possible so if theee was the option to just get the machine I would have been tempted. Didn’t realise there was so much to it, so thanks!

I'm not saying this to scare you but sleep apnea can kill you.
It's rare but it does happen.

I think if you're going to go,get them to test for type 2 diabetes, thyroid.
Sometimes stuff can be linked.
Good luck.

@Xmassprout

They are uncomfortable and very noisy

I don't know when you last experienced CPAPs but modern ones are very quiet and comfortable too.

To pps talking about weight - there is more and more evidence that it's actually sleep apnoea causing weight gain and not the other way around, and overweight people who have sleep apnoea lose weight quickly once interventions are in place

@Heracles1000

To pps talking about weight - there is more and more evidence that it's actually sleep apnoea causing weight gain and not the other way around, and overweight people who have sleep apnoea lose weight quickly once interventions are in place

Yes I have heard this but my anecdotal experience is that sleep clinics expect/encourage weight loss as a first line of treatment. They won’t even offer CPAP unless you’re on the more severe end of the spectrum without you making lifestyle changes first. I’m guessing it’s a far more cost effective approach also. Not easy!

@WalltoWallBtards

Thanks for the ( mainly) helpful advice! Lucky enough to have both the NHS and the option to go private. But will start with the GP as in my experience, even in the U.K., it’s way better and more trustworthy than people making money off everything they suggest…

You could try your GP and ask to be referred to a sleep clinic on the NHS. In the meantime, you can explore options available about improving your lifestyle and many sleep doctors work privately too so you could find one who does both NHS and private work. Whatever you do, it’s a brave first step in addressing it with your doctor, good luck. :)

let us know what you decide to do & how it turned out, OP

Yes I have heard this but my anecdotal experience is that sleep clinics expect/encourage weight loss as a first line of treatment.

This has definitely happened. I think the tide is turning though as I work in healthcare and have heard lots about this.

@Heracles1000

Yes I have heard this but my anecdotal experience is that sleep clinics expect/encourage weight loss as a first line of treatment.

This has definitely happened. I think the tide is turning though as I work in healthcare and have heard lots about this.

This sounds really positive and helpful. :) I was fortunate that my clinic have been encouraging and motivating me to lose weight in a kind and helpful way but I know many people get a blanket “lose weight before treatment” and get given limited info or support.

@iRun2eatCake out of interest what worked for you? Did you use calorie counting apps, or any methods? And which exercise?

I joined Weight Watchers (again!).

I also did C25K.

I have never done any exercise in my life so this was a miracle.... and the programme actually worked for me

WW - in person or online??

Online. I really have no interest in anyone elses progress or listening to the "motivational talks"

The app has everything on it that l need to do it alone.

My husband has a cpap machine and it’s brilliant! Means we can sleep in the same bed (house!) as fitted correctly it’s totally silent, does need calibrating yearly though to get it spot on.
DH is not really overweight so loosing weight would not help him.
The machine did take a bit of getting used to though and was prescribed after a night at a sleep clinic where it was confirmed he stopped breathing throughout the night.
Also although you do need to inform the DVLA it’s never been a problem if kept under control.
Would definitely say you need a proper diagnosis before getting one to ensure it’s right for you, it’s not difficult.

According to Google you can buy them, pricey but worth it for decent sleep.

If DP goes to his doctor and is diagnosed with Sleep Apnea some NHS areas will privode a CPAP machine free.
In any case, I believe, it needs to be calibrated for the individual user.

Also concider medication for reflux OP, it an real fuck with your sleep.

A CPAP machine can absolutely hurt you if not used correctly! OP, I’d encourage you to seek a diagnosis, even if you then self fund the machine. You’ll need help selecting the correct pressures for you ect. Please don’t just buy one and wing it!!

You need a proper assessment and you may need to go private, especially if some areas are using weight as a rationing criteria to get treatment (there is no evidence that losing weight is necessary to benefit or a risk factor in treatment - its just rationing). However plenty who are overweight lose weight when properly treated.

DH's CPAP machine fits him fine and is relatively quiet. His travel machine is a bit noisier. He wasn't overweight, plenty of apnoea sufferers are not.