I use a CPAP because I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea.

Mild sleep apnea: 5 and 15.
Moderate sleep apnea: 15-30.
Severe sleep apnea: 30 and above.

I scored 7.5.

I've had the machine for about 18 months now, and have only missed using it once, nearly a year ago. To be honest, using the machine hasn't changed my energy levels or lowered my blood pressure as I was told a good nights sleep would.

I had a sleep test years ago and passed. Obviously, I failed the last test. I intend to have another test soon. From what I've read, it's best to sleep on your left side. The last test I took, was at a sleep center. The bed was uncomfortable and I think that I slept on my right. Next test will be a home test where I will be more comfortable.

Anonymous wrote:Starting to think this might be an issue for me. Loud snoring, dry mouth in morning, headache, excessive daytime sleepiness, exhaustion. I’m 48, 5’6” 130 lbs.

If you have sleep apnea can you tell me about how you went about getting a diagnosis. Has treatment made a difference for you. Anything else you can share.

I had all of those symptoms. Went to my PCP who ordered a sleep study. I was able to do the sleep study at home. Was diagnosed and got a CPAP.

It has been life changing! I had no idea how tired I was. I used to nap everyday and fall asleep everywhere. Now I have so much more energy and am incredibly well rested.

I was just referred by Primary Care for an evaluation for sleep apnea. I did not realize just how bad having it can be—cardio vascular issues (including strain on ❤️), high BP, obesity, mood, etc. Also, some sleep apnea is caused by neurological issues so a CD mouth guard and breathe strips won’t help.

Anonymous wrote:Push HARD for a sleep study. Shop around until someone approves one.

I went to a neurologist who knew that even minor sleep apnea could be really debilitating, which it was in my case. I've been using the CPAP religiously. It's easy because I know how dangerous and insidious sleep apnea can be. Super harmful to your health.

I was a borderline case but still qualified. Check out reddit: r/cpap and related subreddits.

Sleep studies are "easy" now. Majority can do it at home and you just turn the equipment back in by 9/10am the next morning. Much better than the in person ones that were the only choice 10-15 years ago.
Just did one a few months ago---took less than 3 mins to "hook" myself up.