Sleep apnea is a dangerous condition. It's linked to heart failure and a myriad of other health problems. I have been diagnosed for about 2 years now and am using a CPAP machine. It took a while to get used to it, but now I can't sleep without it and have experienced many benefits.
One problem I experienced in the first few days was something called "rain out". It is condensation that accumulates in the mask and is often released traveling down the nose and throat. I was awakened many times choking and gagging from this unpleasant occurrence. I have found a "sleeve" at a local oxygen/medical supply store. I taped it to the top and bottom of the hose.
As "rain out" is usually caused by the room being cool (which I prefer), the hose needs to be insulated. I also put as much of the hose as I can under the blankets with me to keep it warm. This has solved the problem. Please take sleep apnea seriously. If you aren't sleeping well you should be tested. If you have a CPAP machine please use it. God Bless.
By Granny2889 from near Charlotte NC
This page contains the following solutions.
Cpap users that have to strap on breathing masks and anyone else using straps that touch the skin might look at the toe bandages (pkg. of three) at Walmart for $2.68, that slip around straps for needed comfort.
