Beer, Bikes, and Snow

Two weeks ago I had my first follow-up appointment with my sleep doctor.  I needed to bring the SD card that is in my CPAP for my doctor to analyze - and provide the insurance company with data proving I was actually using the machine. The nurse called me in for my usual weight and blood pressure check while the doctor looked over the data.  I wondered if and what he would find. The first month of using the CPAP wasn't exactly what I thought it would be.  I had a cold for the first part, making it difficult to breathe in general.  I needed to get a chin strap to keep my mouth shut and I found the mask to be irritating my nose. There some "meh" nights and some nights I ripped the mask off my face. So what did the doctor say? Well, the machine is doing it's job.  I have no signs of sleep apnea and all of the "mechanical" issues I'm having with my throat and jaw seem to be under control.  And based on my data, I am using the machine enough to get insura...

This year rather than making "resolutions" I promised myself to try new things and work on making a better me.  I've already touched upon getting my sleep apnea under control, which has been the biggest adjustment.   But January was about exploring and trying new things... I've dealt with stomach issues and IBS for a while.  Two years ago I went gluten free and never looked back.  After a few visits with a gastrointestinal doctor and several tests, I was diagnosed with gluten sensitivity.  The doctor told me that I could do an elimination diet if I wanted to see what other things I may be sensitive too.  Last December a friend posted about the Whole 30  and the book " It Starts with Food ".  Brief summary - you eliminate everything but lean meat, vegetables, and fruit for 30 days.  Then reintroduce items back in to see your reaction.  Seemed like a good deal to me.  Well I lasted 14 days.  Not because of a lack of will power ...

Some have asked "how's the CPAP working out??" It's been almost a month .  And, it's been an adjustment to say the least.  When I first got the machine, I was coming down with a cold.  On top of trying to breathe with tubes in my nose, I was congested.  So the first week I barely wore it - I couldn't breathe through my nose and the mask I chose doesn't allow me to breathe through my mouth.  Once I was able to breathe through my nose, I then developed one of those annoying tickle coughs that would wake me up.  Going into the second week with the CPAP, I was ready to give it back to the doctor. new bedroom decor Going into the third week, I was still having issues with my mouth opening during the night (even with a chin strap) and the head gear shifting during the night.  Getting the mask and tubing to fit just right was a challenge.  I would wake up to the sound of air whistling in my nose or my nostrils hurting.  There were a few n...