My profession is as a mechanic; I used to consider myself to be in the top of my field, but over a period of years I felt I had become only mediocre.

For many years ,I had been visiting my doctor with problems ranging from poor concentration, memory loss, awaking feeling tired, tiredness during the day, waking repeatedly at night and a constant fuzziness in my head. I had been to him about each symptom separately over a long time period and it was thought to be side effects of medication.

I had also mentioned those problems individually to my cardiologist on my biannual checkups, but, once again, on their own there was no real concern and he agreed with my GP. I have had a heart valve replacement, and this alone seems to give unusual symptoms. I worried that I was developing Alzheimer’s or Dementia. My wife was starting to have problems sleeping and told me she would lay awake at night worrying and listening to my breathing. I was holding my breath for long periods and starting again with a gasp; not realizing the seriousness of the situation, I considered it funny.
One day I was watching a television article about a man whose business had been in trouble because of Sleep Apnea. I was amazed; he had all the symptoms I had. But I had never associated them together. My doctor was in full agreement and arranged an appointment at Dunedin Hospital. I was diagnosed with Sleep Apnea.
I purchased a CPAP [machine] with humidifier and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare'sFlexiFit 407 mask. After making use of the internet to research equipment, I decided they were easy to operate and efficient and have proven to be so; the mask is comfortable and surprisingly unobtrusive. I have found the humidifier is essential, living in the dry climate of Central Otago.

Every contact I have had from hospital and equipment suppliers has been extremely helpful and professional at all times. The effects of using CPAP [therapy] have been amazing. I am now confidently working at my trade again after giving it up for 10 years. My wife and I sleep soundly all night, and life is much more fulfilling. Amazingly, my long-term memory is returning and other people are no longer frustrated because I cannot remember situations and old friends.

I take my CPAP [machine] on overnight visits and overseas holidays. It’s the first thing I consider, and always advise the airlines and carry a copy of my prescription because I take my CPAP machine as hand baggage, feeling it is too precious to store in the hold.
I’m glad I have taken the steps to treat my Sleep Apnea and feel I should have had CPAP therapy 15 years ago.

Alan Ireland
Dunedin
New Zealand