For instance, you can begin wearing the mask for short periods of time days or weeks before you actually begin your treatments. Try wearing it while you watch television. Try wearing it while you’re making dinner. Just find some time where you can slip it on and learn to forget about it.
You can also run the CPAP machine before you begin your treatments in earnest. Maybe turn it on just before you go to bed so you can get used to the sound it makes. If you’re used to sleeping in a quiet setting the machine will at first be intrusive, but you will learn to “block it out” psychologically in short order. If you sleep on a busy street with lots of noise, the machine might even be a blessing in disguise. It can act as sort of a “white noise” machine that at least partially blocks out some of the traffic or street noise.
Ultimately, you’re going to have to take the plunge and wear the mask and try to sleep. Some people have had success going “cold turkey” and just jumping in. Others have tried to wear it in bed while reading or watching television for a few days first.
Whatever method you try, just remember that many, many people have been able to accommodate themselves to CPAP treatments. And with a little perseverance, you can be one of them too. Then, when you begin to feel the benefits of a truly good night’s sleep, you’ll forget about all the inconveniences you had to endure and just remember how well rested you’re going to feel tomorrow.
Clive Fleming is a guest writer on several different websites including The Pedometer Watch. Learn more tips on how you can ease into cpap therapy for a better night’s sleep.
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