I've had one for about 5 years now. I was use to it immediatly and would leave it on overnight the entire night from the start. BUT I never had the dramatic results people talk about. After about 6 months I would stop wearing it for a night or two, and THEN I realized that I slept better.

DH has had his for about the same time. He would take his off at night all the time. Even wrapping it up nicely and putting the mask on his nightstand with no knowledge of doing it. He now cannot sleep without his.

I hope this helps.

Vickey-MN

It took me about 3 months.I had to go back for a different mask then had to modify my new mask with sticky foam to prevent air leaks. Once I adjusted to the mask I could really tell the difference in my sleep quality.
Word of warning- wear the CPAP every night. My husband was sick and complained about the noise and the air blowing on him so I stopped using the CPAP so he could sleep. It was just as hard to re-adjust to using the machine the second time. Next time he was sick he slept in another room.
My sis is just about to go through a sleep study. Her doc thinks she needs a mask. "but,I don't snore" she said, "yes, you do" we said.
If you have more questions I'll be glad to help you out. I am offically released from wearing the mask now.

If it is working and being worn properly, results should be almost immediate.

There is an alternative called a BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) that delivers air through with more pressure for inhaling and less for exhaling, which can be easier for some users.

There is also a dental device available for people who can't tolerate either of those two. If you fit the criteria, a dentist can take an impression of your teeth and make a device that holds your lower jaw forward to keep the airway open while sleeping.

Harry wears one and he had a hard time getting used to it. I'd say it took a couple of weeks and a lot of patience. Noni is right on about the masks. There are several different kinds. Harry can't stand the whole-face mask, but can't sleep without the type that just fits over his nose. It's the first thing to go in the car when we travel!! He absolutely cannot sleep without it.

It isn't pretty, but it could save your life. Apnea is dangerous.

Hubby does. It took him less than a week to get used to it, and it made an immediate improvement in his daytime alertness.

My husband slept better from the git/go, but since quit using it. He says, it's to much of a hassle.

We noticed the difference very soon, as DH has diabetis, cancer and lung problems. He sleeps much better and feels better.

Friend of mine uses one.

He was settling down one evening, turned it on, and turned out the lights just as his dog laid down beside the bed...

and farted in the air intake.

His wife didn't stop laughing for two weeks. :-D