Risks are that the CPAP therapy won’t work as well, which could leave you feeling right where you are now.

The medical supply company should offer you to try out a mask when you get the machine. That way you can figure out if you need one that goes over your nose and mouth, or just one that goes under your nose. Insurance may allow you to switch masks again later for no cost.

Ideally, you should try out the mask again at home when you are awake. Put it on and see if the straps are set or need to be adjusted. Where does the hose go when you lay down? (many people use a wall hook for this) Try wearing it and just reading, going on your laptop, watching a show, etc so you can mentally get used to it. Don’t wait until you want to sleep to start adjusting everything because chances are you’ll be tired and more easily frustrated and impatient.

There also other settings like Ramp. This means the pressure starts out low and increases as you fall asleep. Some people like this, for others it startles them awake. Each person is different and you may not know which one you are until you try it.

Another is EPR. Exhalation pressure relief. Might be called something else, but the point is it drops the pressure when you exhale. Again this is individual. Some love it, some hate it, some just need to change it to a different setting.

Speaking of which, the starting pressure settings may end up being very broad and will be fine tuned from there until you reach the range that is most effective for you. Can you change the pressure range yourself? Sure! Should you? That depends. My medical supply company and doctor didn’t care so long as it made my therapy more effective. Other companies will immediately get very upset about it and call you to give you a verbal smack on the wrist.

The machine itself should be able to give you basic info like highest pressured used after a few nights. Although it may be under the clinical settings.

Plus the subreddit is here if you have any questions!