Sleeping in a Darth Vader Type Face Mask Takes Some Getting Use To

Sleep Apnea is hard on a person. Basically, you never dream because your breathing gets shallow and apnea causes you to, literally, stop breathing. That causes you to wake up, whether you're aware of it or not, and breath (or else you'll die).

The problems associated with this are many and complicated. They also vary in severity from person to person. Mine is described as severe.

It causes me to feel tired all the time and it's hard on the heart and other organs, which are all pretty important. I think I've had this for years and never got tested.

Now that I have been diagnosed and gotten my CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, I can, hopefully, undergo a fundamental life change. More sleep means more energy, more focus and better overall health.

My biggest problem early on is getting use to the mask that's strapped to my head and covers my mouth and nose. It's not a normal thing to have while you sleep. It's not the most comfortable thing and it's cumbersome. But I need it.

First night with it (Tuesday, 1/30) wasn't good. I got 2 to 3 hours of sleep. I was tired on Wednesday when I did the show. New Years eve, because I was so tired, I went to bed at around 8 and, even with the mask, got a good night sleep. I felt great on Thursday (New Years Day). Last few nights have been better. No snoring at all, anymore. I'm already feeling more rested and stopped taking my acid reflux meds. Hopefully more will go, too!

Last night, I did alright. I'm getting use to it little by little. While it's still feels quite abnormal to have the mask on to sleep, I think I'm getting use to it. Time will tell but I'm hopeful.

I will tell you, I had several dreams which I can remember the last few nights. That hasn't happened for a long time. A good sign, I think, except for the dreams about clowns.