[ronster]

I've had two sleep tests and both were nightmares (no pun intended). After the first test a full mask CPAP system was recommended and after a week of no sleep with it I returned it. After a few years I went in for a second test and a pillow mask was recommended with a progressive CPAP device. The pillows are soft rubber pads that fit in your nose and the whole mask is less intrusive. The progressive CPAP device brings the air pressure up in stages so you have a better chance of falling asleep before the target pressure is achieved. This system has worked fairly well for me after six years of continuous use and has made a change in my life for the better. Yes it is still a medieval solution, as the mask makes you look like Hannibal Lector and will definitely affect your romantic spontaneity, chaff the inside of your nose (get a device with humidifier) and will make you the subject of investigation by homeland security every time you fly, but I have felt so much better in the last five years than the many years I walked around like a zombie prior to using CPAP. I use two units now, a larger one for home use, and a small unit that fits in the palm of your hand for travel. I highly recommend using a CPAP device if you have been diagnosed with apnea as apnea is a slow, silent killer and the snoring can be a relationship ender.