I'm finding it hard to fall asleep when using my sleep apnea therapy machine. Can you help?

Some of your machine settings may have been determined by your doctor’s prescription. You can also consider the following solutions:

  • Try using the "Ramp" option on your therapy machine. Designed to make therapy more comfortable, the Ramp feature helps you ease into therapy each night by setting your machine at a lower pressure than prescribed and slowly ramping up to your full therapy pressure over a maximum of 45 minutes. Using Ramp gives your device more time to gradually reach your prescribed therapy pressure - and gives you more time to comfortably fall asleep. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your therapy machine settings.
  • Try using an automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) therapy machine. ResMed’s AirSense™ 10, AutoSet™ and AirSense™ 10 AutoSet™ for Her machines are suitable for those whose pressure needs vary throughout the night. These machines automatically adjust pressure throughout the night to suit your unique breathing needs. Discuss this option with your doctor before making any changes to your therapy.
  • Try the EPR feature. ResMed's Air Sense™ 10 therapy device has an Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) setting that decreases pressure as you exhale. This can make breathing out feel more natural and comfortable. Ask your doctor or ResMed accredited outlet whether EPR can be used.

Remember, it takes time to get used to treatment. It takes a while for most people to get comfortable using a therapy machine and mask every night. Wearing your mask with your therapy machine running during the day, for example while watching TV, may help you get used to it.