I've been on CPAP for about a month. My sleep test diagnosed me with severe apnea (60 events per hour). My CPAP is set to 7cm and I use the Swift nasal pillows. After some effort to figure out the mask and sleeping positions, I'm now compliant, using CPAP every night. My wife and I both see improvements from the therapy.

My challenge is that I alternate between a good night of sleep and a bad night. One night I'll get 8+ hours of great sleep and I wake refreshed. The next night I'm unable to fall asleep at a reasonable hour. I leave bed, watch TV or read wide awake. I will eventually go to bed and use CPAP, but its way to late. As a result, I only get 4 or so hours of sleep and wake not as rested as I'd like. The cycle repeats every two days. I've had 6 cycles in the past twelve days...like clockwork.

This is better than pre-CPAP, but I'd like my sleep to be consistent night to night. Is this too much to ask? Any suggestions?

Pidginbil

I have dealt with the same thing.  I have had my CPAP since June and really notice a positive change in how I feel.  

What helps me deal with the on-again, off-again pattern is developing a better sleep hygiene regimen.  What I mean is, try to develop good habits.  If you are not tired enough to sleep at a reasonable bed time, try adding exercise to your daily routine.  You will sleep more soundly and be more apt to fall asleep quickly and restfully.  

Try a soothing herb tea prior to bed time.  Listen to some soft music.  Essentially, find what works for you.  After your body having to deal with apnea for a while it is only reasonable that you will have to devote some time and energy to retraining!  

The other stuff is optional but I promise that if you get more active physically you will rest better.  I dealt with the same thing before but lately I actually look forward to sleep.  (I used to dread it!)  Maybe that was my subconscious not wanting to suffocate.  

Note that once I whipped the major cycle I also have had some subsequent mini-cycles.  Adjust a bit, roll with it and stay with it!

Good luck!
John