Apnea Diagnosis... Now What?

[eddiememphis]

I did a two night, in home test as prescribed by the Doc after I told him I feel like crap all the time.

It came back as severe, AHI 38. They are recommending an auto-pap.

I was surprised by the diagnosis. I thought apnea was an old fat guy problem.

I don't snore. I'm neither fat nor old. However, after talking to a few people about it, it seem like almost everyone has it, regardless of body type, age or level of health.

Now that I am going "on the mask", what can I expect? I know a few guys on here use them, having looked at various posts.

Is a cpap a magical cure-all or is it snake oil? Something in between?

I know every body is different and all that, but I want to hear from actual users about their experiences.

[BushMasterBoy]

Did you ever have a COVID19 infection? My bout with the virus has damaged my sinus. I believe in "patient driven research".

[funkymonkey1111]

you can expect a jet of air blown up your nose with a giant, elephant-like apparatus on your face. if you sleep in any position other than flat on your back, be forewarned that it is difficult to get used to

[Fromk]

For a long while I also felt like crap all the time and eventually had a lot of days were I just couldn't keep my eyes open. Turns out I had severe sinus problems that were secretly depriving me of sleep for years. When I got diagnosed I was extremely worried that I wouldn't adapt to a mask since I was a light sleeper.

I got put on an APAP that just has the nose things and took to it surprisingly fast. It turns out I am actually capable of sleeping through the night! It worked so well that my wife was checking to make sure I was still alive. After a few nights and you figure out when in your routine to put it on you'll be shocked how much better you start feeling. It seriously turned my life around and reminded me what feeling normal was supposed to be like.

So from someone who didn't know there was a problem and was extremely skeptical about being put on a mask I was totally turned around after a couple nights.

[UncleDave]

Just go with the nasal pillows, not the masks. I have used them all, and that is the most comfortable.

[Great-Kazoo]

If you get the machine, make sure it's the one that can provide humidity.


I have / had it, for a long time. The biggest thing we did to minimize it was (in CO) add a whole house humidifier. Major difference to my sleep pattern.

[rondog]

Hell, I've been on a CPAP for 25 years, on my 3rd machine. It's my bestest friend in the whole world! After my Beagle of course. But seriously, it doesn't take much to get used to, especially after you realize SO much better sleeping. It's like your own personal supercharger pumping air into your beak. I'm so used to it I can't sleep without one now.

BUT - if it's a heated water type, make damn sure it NEVER runs dry! ALWAYS make sure the water tank is full, and ALWAYS use distilled water! Never tap water, that has shit in it you don't want going into your sinuses, not to mention the mineral deposits in your machine. And if it runs dry, it'll pump warm, dry air into your sinuses and you'll be MISERABLE for a couple of days. Happens to me, anyway.

[theGinsue]

Just go with the nasal pillows, not the masks. I have used them all, and that is the most comfortable.

Whoa there big fella, every user is different. I get bad nasal congestion while I sleep (all year allergies). If your nasal passages get filled with mucous (snot), the pillows won't work so I use a full face mask. About 5 years ago I decided to try the newest/best nasal pillows anyway. I found that during my sleep I'd open my mouth. If your mouth opens, the nasal pillows won't work and I would wake feeling as though I was being waterboarded (typical apnea feeling). It's a full overnose and mouth mask for me but every user is different.


Hell, I've been on a CPAP for 25 years, on my 3rd machine. It's my bestest friend in the whole world! After my Beagle of course. But seriously, it doesn't take much to get used to, especially after you realize SO much better sleeping. It's like your own personal supercharger pumping air into your beak. I'm so used to it I can't sleep without one now.

BUT - if it's a heated water type, make damn sure it NEVER runs dry! ALWAYS make sure the water tank is full, and ALWAYS use distilled water! Never tap water, that has shit in it you don't want going into your sinuses, not to mention the mineral deposits in your machine. And if it runs dry, it'll pump warm, dry air into your sinuses and you'll be MISERABLE for a couple of days. Happens to me, anyway.

Everything Rondog said is gospel but especially how, once you get used to it (which can take up to 2 weeks), you'll realize how marvelous they are and you won't be able to sleep without one.

During my first sleep study, which was supposed to be a "split study" they woke me 1/2 way through the night to put a CPAP/BiPAP on me. It was a full face mask and I couldn't seem to catch my breath with it - it felt like they were smothering me with pillows. I was deemed "unable to tolerate" the device. I didn't get a CPAP for 5 more years during which my apnea had progressively gotten worse (likely had it my whole life but didn't get diagnosed until I was 3 years old). When I got my first device I addressed my previous experience with the therapist who showed me the "ramp up" feature. This slowly increases the air pressure over time (as I recall it was 9 minutes). This allows your body to adjust to the pressure. I used this for a couple of weeks and by them I was well adjusted to using the CPAP and went straight to full pressure immediately.

CPAP's aren't particularly cheap and for the first 2 years I had to pay a co-pay for it until it was considered "paid off" and no longer a "leased medical device". My first device was a Phillips Resperonics with a humidifier. (Kazoo is right - get one with a humidifier!!!) It was good. My second device (which I'm still using) is a Resmed Auto with humidifier and I love it. Problem is, I travel for work a lot and taking the CPAP was too bulky in my luggage/carry on. I found a deal at a CPAP supply place out of New Jersey for a Resmed Air Mini with lots of extras (battery pack, portable cleaning bag, etc. all cheaper than most places charged for just the Air Mini) and had my prescription sent to this supplier and bought it myself. While I didn't care for spending the money, the convenience has been well worth it.

Cleanliness is critical. Aside from regularly replacing things like the mask and hose (which I only do about once for every 3-4 times my insurance entitles me to do), you must use distilled water in the humidifier. While this is a cleaner/safer choice the biggest reason is anything else will cause lime buildup in the machine and humidifier reservoir. You'll also want to clean the reservoir weekly (okay, I only do it about once/month, but I'm a bad example). You'll want to wipe out the mask or pillows daily and consider getting something like a SoClean to sanitize (through ionization) the entire system. If you get one of these and fail to clean your body oils off of the silicone seal, the seal will turn brown. Ask me how I know.

Anyway, welcome to apnea and being a CPAP user. After the initial adjustment period you'll definitely realize better sleep.

[Great-Kazoo]

Hell, I've been on a CPAP for 25 years, on my 3rd machine. It's my bestest friend in the whole world! After my Beagle of course. But seriously, it doesn't take much to get used to, especially after you realize SO much better sleeping. It's like your own personal supercharger pumping air into your beak. I'm so used to it I can't sleep without one now.

BUT - if it's a heated water type, make damn sure it NEVER runs dry! ALWAYS make sure the water tank is full, and ALWAYS use distilled water! Never tap water, that has shit in it you don't want going into your sinuses, not to mention the mineral deposits in your machine. And if it runs dry, it'll pump warm, dry air into your sinuses and you'll be MISERABLE for a couple of days. Happens to me, anyway.

If it needs distilled water. BUY IT anytime you see it. Down here it's sparse, or limited to 6- 1 gal containers .

[ChadAmberg]

If it needs distilled water. BUY IT anytime you see it. Down here it's sparse, or limited to 6- 1 gal containers .

Or consider getting your own distiller: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079L5D5VJ/ is the one I have for my wife. Works great, it's easy, and to clean it you just run it with a little bit of ascorbic acid about every 3-4 gallons, based on how bad your water is.

[sroz]

Or consider getting your own distiller: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079L5D5VJ/ is the one I have for my wife. Works great, it's easy, and to clean it you just run it with a little bit of ascorbic acid about every 3-4 gallons, based on how bad your water is.

Totally agree with this. I’ve never been tested for apnea so obviously do not use a CPAP. My son in law does and he has a distiller. Been invaluable for when distilled water is in short supply and it has helped to keep his dad supplied.

[eddiememphis]

I look forward to getting the stupid thing.

I am sick of feeling like I have a hangover every day.

[arbol]

If you are having lung problems, like COPD, they can also deliver Oxygen.

My Mother was close to being intubated, and I asked if we could use a CPAP instead, and this resulted in several years added to her life.

-John

[theGinsue]

If you are having lung problems, like COPD, they can also deliver Oxygen.

My Mother was close to being intubated, and I asked if we could use a CPAP instead, and this resulted in several years added to her life.

-John

Even better than having oxygen delivered (which empties quickly) is to get an Oxygen Concentrator. I have both an "at home" unit for use with my CPAP and a portable unit that I can take along wherever I go - and I don't have to fill any bottles or have it delivered.

[OctopusHighball]

This conversation has convinced me to look into this again. When I was first diagnosed, I did the split test, and when they put the mask on, they woke me up immediately. Only "immediately" was four hours later. I've never slept so good in my entire life! Got the stupid home machine and could never replicate the results, felt like I was being suffocated. That was probably 15 years ago. Sounds like they have made advancements in the tech.

[rjr6150]

You might also check into Inspire. Most insurances cover the cost. It’s an Inplant.

www.inspire sleep.com

[Dlesh123]

Agree with others here, been on it for 10 years, won't sleep without it. Also have the O2 concentrator hooked up to it, that helps as well. I absolutely must have the humidifier and also agree to never let it run dry, it is miserable breathing dry warm air.
I use a mask and it is seldom a problem, sleeping on either side or on my back. But make sure that you keep it fitting you correctly. The straps in the head harness eventually stretch and it will need to be tightened up periodically or it will make weird noises from escaping air around your face.

[Gman]

I'm on my 2nd machine. Can't sleep without it. AirSense 10, but the 11 is the new hotness. The new automatic machines are nothing like the PAP systems of old. I have mine set to reduce pressure on exhalation. The apnea occurs on inhalation. Use a nasal mask, but it's a highly personal decision depending on what you like/dislike.

We also bought a "Megahome Countertop Water Distiller Stainless, Glass Collection" on Amazon to make our own distilled water. I usually make 2 gallons at a time.

[BREATHER]

I finally decided to get checked after I couldn't sleep at all without "choking" on a hunting trip. I thought well hell. I still hunt, I bought a marine battery to power up the c-pap when camping.

[eddiememphis]

How much water do they use?

A distiller is pretty expensive when King Doops has distilled water at $1.50 a gallon.

I haven't been fitted yet, waiting on the Doc and insurance and supplier to get together and decide how badly to hurt me.

I see that the masks are prescription as well, although you can get "parts kits" and make your own. This seems like a scam to me, but what do I know?

[BladesNBarrels]

You might also check into Inspire. Most insurances cover the cost. It?s an Inplant.

www.inspiresleep.com

Fixed it. There was a space in the link

The site does not explain what the Inspire is.
Why the mystery?
Does it require surgery?

[eddiememphis]

https://www.metrohealth.org/otolaryngology/sleep-surgery/services-we-provide/inspire-surgery

It's an electronic stimulant to keep your tongue in place.

"The device gets implanted along the right side of the neck and chest wall during a two or three hour long procedure under general anesthesia.The small sensor in the chest wall monitors the patient's breathing and sends mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway. "

Used for obstructive apnea. I have central apnea which is where my stupid brain forgets to tell my diaphragm to function so I stop breathing.

[OneGuy67]

I was diagnosed ten years ago and was told by the Army I could not deploy with a CPAP, so I elected to have surgery to fix my issue. I had my tonsils, adenoids and uvula removed and my septum repaired. A roto rooter job if you will. It aided with my apnea and allowed me to deloy one last time, but my wife says I still make some weird noises at night, just not the snoring and snorting I used to.

[DDT951]

I was diagnosed ten years ago and was told by the Army I could not deploy with a CPAP, so I elected to have surgery to fix my issue. I had my tonsils, adenoids and uvula removed and my septum repaired. A roto rooter job if you will. It aided with my apnea and allowed me to deloy one last time, but my wife says I still make some weird noises at night, just not the snoring and snorting I used to.

The surgery you describe would be my last choice.

CPAP or implant typically show much better results and less negative side effects.

[theGinsue]

How much water do they use?

A distiller is pretty expensive when King Doops has distilled water at $1.50 a gallon.

I haven't been fitted yet, waiting on the Doc and insurance and supplier to get together and decide how badly to hurt me.

I see that the masks are prescription as well, although you can get "parts kits" and make your own. This seems like a scam to me, but what do I know?


I go through about a gallon a month. not too bad, so long as I can find distilled water which is getting more miss than hit when I look for it. I have looked at the home countertop distillers and may just have to give in and buy one. Going to 5 stores to finally find distilled water is getting to be a no-go for me.


Fixed it. There was a space in the link

The site does not explain what the Inspire is.
Why the mystery?
Does it require surgery?

Yes, they are quite vague in most of the advertising for the device. You can find the info (as EdiieMemphis has shown, but they don't make it easy.


[/I]Used for obstructive apnea. I have central apnea which is where my stupid brain forgets to tell my diaphragm to function so I stop breathing.

You are only the 2nd person I've ever heard of with central apnea. I have the misfortune of having both obstructive and central apnea. Whenever I try to tell folks what that is I have to tell the blonde joke about forgetting to breathe.


I was diagnosed ten years ago and was told by the Army I could not deploy with a CPAP, so I elected to have surgery to fix my issue. I had my tonsils, adenoids and uvula removed and my septum repaired. A roto rooter job if you will. It aided with my apnea and allowed me to deloy one last time, but my wife says I still make some weird noises at night, just not the snoring and snorting I used to.

I've heard of mixed results from that surgery so I wish you good luck with it.

My obstruction is me swallowing my tongue when I relax (I don't even have to be asleep for it to happen). I had an Air Force Academy doctor (I think his last name had to be Mengele) describe the corrective surgery to me just after my initial diagnosis. It involved slitting my throat, anchoring cables to my jaw with hooks under my tongue. It would impact my speech and ability to chew/swallow food. It was barbaric. No thanks.

[eddiememphis]

I go through about a gallon a month.

You are only the 2nd person I've ever heard of with central apnea. I have the misfortune of having both obstructive and central apnea. Whenever I try to tell folks what that is I have to tell the blonde joke about forgetting to breathe.


I can afford a gallon per month. Although we'll see what contrapion they saddle me with.

I was diagnosed with both, but looking at the results, it was 36 obstructive to 213 central during 450 minutes.

Obviously, I am not a physician. I am still trying to figure out the figures from the sleep study. I don't trust anyone until I understand the details, and my doctors haven't been helpful.

I get the feeling this may be an easy diagnosis and likely profitable for everyone involved.

[OtterbatHellcat]

My wife uses a cpap since before I met her, and I know I need one too........but there's a list of other shit that's probably gonna kill me before apnea does.

Shitty sleep sucks, no question about it. I hope it really helps you out brother.

[Gman]

How much water do they use?

A distiller is pretty expensive when King Doops has distilled water at $1.50 a gallon.

I haven't been fitted yet, waiting on the Doc and insurance and supplier to get together and decide how badly to hurt me.

I see that the masks are prescription as well, although you can get "parts kits" and make your own. This seems like a scam to me, but what do I know?
Wife and I both have CPAPs, so we go through about 2 gallons a month. During the pandemic, finding distilled water was a major PITA. Was worth it to make our own to end that dependency on finding it in stock somewhere.

[eddiememphis]

Shitty sleep sucks, no question about it. I hope it really helps you out brother.

Thank you. Me too.

[Aloha_Shooter]

https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-distill-water-at-home-5095789

You know you can distill your own at home on the stove, right?

I've just been using a Lifestraw Home Filter Pitcher rather than distilled water. Still has some minerals in the water but you can clear that out of the water reservoir with vinegar if you want.

Being on CPAP has made an incredible difference. I generally wake up fully rested again -- for years, I woke up tired, thought it was just a matter of staying up too late and waking too early but it was a very bad (and getting increasingly worse) case of apnea. I hate the fact that I have to carry the damned thing around with me when I travel but it's well worth the humbug.

[rondog]

I was diagnosed ten years ago and was told by the Army I could not deploy with a CPAP, so I elected to have surgery to fix my issue. I had my tonsils, adenoids and uvula removed and my septum repaired. A roto rooter job if you will. It aided with my apnea and allowed me to deloy one last time, but my wife says I still make some weird noises at night, just not the snoring and snorting I used to.

Oh God, I had that surgery too - it was fucking MISERABLE! Worst sore throat of my life. For two years I'd choke on the first bite of anything I ate. Ok after that first bite, but no fun. I do NOT recommend it. Didn't help sleeping or snoring either.

[SideShow Bob]

This is what you have to look forward to every night while trying to go to sleep………

https://youtu.be/gjvps9f_KLI

[OneGuy67]

Oh God, I had that surgery too - it was fucking MISERABLE! Worst sore throat of my life. For two years I'd choke on the first bite of anything I ate. Ok after that first bite, but no fun. I do NOT recommend it. Didn't help sleeping or snoring either.

It did help my snoring. Now I make other noises according to the wife. But yeah, they do butcher the inner throat area pretty good. I constantly get pills stuck in what I think is scar tissue and excess tissue and need to wash them down with copious amounts of fluid. One of the worst surgeries I've ever had done.

[Gman]

This is what you have to look forward to every night while trying to go to sleep???

https://youtu.be/gjvps9f_KLI

Funny, but no.

[rondog]

Funny, but no.

Yeah, no. My current machine is damn near silent. I might make some wierd noises, but the machine doesn't. There was one just like it for sale here recently.

[eddiememphis]

When it's time to get one, is there a machine I should look to get over the others? Or one to avoid?

Everyone says to get the humidifier. Any other options that are must haves?

[Aloha_Shooter]

This is what you have to look forward to every night while trying to go to sleep………

https://youtu.be/gjvps9f_KLI

Honestly, my first CPAP was like that and the noise kept me awake so I stopped using it. On a later physical exam, I found I had caused other damage so I needed to get back on a CPAP but I was able to get a new one which is much quieter. I can't say enough about waking up feeling rested.

[eddiememphis]

Well...

Still waiting.

The woman at Lincare I call every week said her colleague has not gotten to my claim yet, but it doesn't matter since the only unit they offer is backordered.

Instead of waiting for them, I am going to use the might of capitalism and purchase one myself.

What brands do you guys use? Give me some reviews and recommendations on models and features.

I realize they are not horribly complex machines and the difference is likely minimal but since I am entirely ignorant on them, I am looking for all the education I can get.

[Fromk]

I don't have anything to compare it to but I have a Resmed Airsense 10 APAP that Kaiser issued me. I certainly don't hate it. The first one I had needed to be replaced since it stopped sensing my exhales and was pushing too much air. The water reservoir lasts two or three nights. Be aware that the humidity is adjustable and the default was way too high for me. Knowing what it's supposed to do is a big part of making me actually want to use it.

I also got a fleece sleeve for the hose off Amazon to keep the air from getting cold and condensation down. There are heated options but, again, I found what works for me.

[Gman]

When it's time to get one, is there a machine I should look to get over the others? Or one to avoid?

Everyone says to get the humidifier. Any other options that are must haves?
Go with ResMed and avoid Philips.


http://youtu.be/j0BnXaruxFU

[theGinsue]

What brands do you guys use? Give me some reviews and recommendations on models and features.

I use the Resmed AirSense 10 Autoset. Like this:
91252

This is an older model and if I were to replace it now I'd go with the Airsense 11 Autoset. Like this:
91253
https://www.cpapsupplyusa.com/catalog/product/view/id/47365/s/resmed-airsense-11-autoset-with-humidai/

You can see that the 11 is sleeker and has a more advanced appearance.


As far as your provider...
I had LinCare for a few years. They were rude and seemed to go out of their way to not be helpful. One time I tried working with them for 2 weeks to get a new seal for my mask and they kept dicking me along. My sleep had gotten so bad that I was seriously at wits end. A friend recommended AeroCare and a rep came over that night with not only a new seal but also a new mask and hose and didn't charge me a thing.

I also use an oxygen concentrator. Three years in a row, without any attempts to schedule it or any advanced warning, Lincare would send a tech over annually to "clean and inspect" the concentrator. I refused to let them in the door and repeatedly requested LinCare add to my profile that I would not accept unscheduled techs. I'd always just take my concentrator in to their office for the annual maintenance.

Additionally, if my doctor failed to get my CPAP and concentrator referral back into the system to ensure my insurance paid for the devices, LinCare would call me threatening to come take the devices. AeroCare always gived me a call and gives me time (it's taken up to 3 weeks to get the paperwork renewed) to get it all back in order - never any threats or hostile treatment.

To say that I'm a fan of AeroCare (as compared to LinCare) would be an understatement.

ETA: Oh, and for what it's worth, I think the Resmed is leaps and bounds better than the Philips I had (Philips has even recently had a recall) - and LinCare likes to issue Philips units.

[eddiememphis]

This is an older model and if I were to replace it now I'd go with the Airsense 11 Autoset. Like this:


Why?

[eddiememphis]

Go with ResMed and avoid Philips.


Do you use that guy's software?

[Gman]

Do you use that guy's software?
I do not. I use the ResMed myAir app on my phone. My pulmonologist is able to see the data from ResMed. I posted the video because I thought it did a very good job of comparing the algorithms of the 2 manufacturers as well as identifying observed O2 levels.

I have the AirSense 10 and my wife has the AirSense 11. I think my replacement machine just missed the launch of the 11. The AirSense 11 is their latest model.

Like T above I also use an oxygen concentrator with my CPAP. My O2 levels would drop while I was sleeping so I have 2 Lph that gets added into the hose going to the mask.

When I had my at-home sleep study I was having about 75 events per hour. Now I usually stay below 1 event per hour. Just checked my history in the app and actually had 0 last Friday, .1 on Sat. and Sun.

DME providers are like a box of chocolates. I was referred to a local one here that has some questionable business practices (overcharged for rental on the CPAP/restarted rental balance at 0 when I switched insurance). I've since moved to Apria.

[eddiememphis]

Update-

I bought the AirSense 11, heated tube and P30i pillow mask. I did hours of research and the seems to be the top of the line so it should last a while. It better since I spent $1100 on it.

It showed up today and I set it up according to all the info I could muster. I tried it for a while on the couch. At 4cm, I felt very comfortable. 10 was a bit strong but I guess one becomes accustomed to it.

I also purchased a wearable 02 sensor ring that records oxygen levels and pulse rate throughout the night. I think that will help me fine tune the machine to my exact needs. The past week saw me average about 2 hours with blood oxygen levels below 90%. Last night's average was 89%. That's not good. Link-https://getwellue.com/products/o2ring-wearable-pulse-oximeter

I don't want to ask permission or wait for help to make this thing work it's best so I am learning how to interpret the results and make the necessary corrections.

Gman, I did sign up for the SleepHQ software. It takes the info from the machine and breaks it down second by second. Each breath is recorded, something not accessible by just what the machine shows or what is available in the ResMed app.

I still have not heard from Lincare, insurance or my doctor so screw 'em. I will handle this myself. That way I am beholden to no one and if this doesn't help me, I can sell the machine to one of you guys.

However, the hour on the couch was actually quite pleasant. I could not hear the machine or the air running through it. The mask is comfortable and with the hose in the top of the frame it won't get tangled or try to pull the mask off- I think.

I am actually excited about this nonsense.

[OctopusHighball]

Did they require a prescription or anything?

[eddiememphis]

Did they require a prescription or anything?

Yes. For both the machine and mask. I had the doc email it to me and I sent it to them.

[OctopusHighball]

Thanks! I visited my doc last week, and he is ordering another sleep study (last one I did was probably a decade ago). Once that's done, I'll go this route.

[gnihcraes]

I just got a call from the doctor, my sleep study was severe apnea. Waiting now to hear what options I have. [emoji848]

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

[eddiememphis]

I just got a call from the doctor, my sleep study was severe apnea. Waiting now to hear what options I have. [emoji848]

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

Make sure to get a copy of the test so you can see what is going on and can base the treatment on that.

As I stated above, no one has followed up on my care. Once the prescription goes through, the money changes hands and they will move on the the next guy.

I am still struggling to get my machine tuned.

[gnihcraes]

Thanks will do.

Sent from my SM-S901U using Tapatalk

[hollohas]

Fixed it. There was a space in the link

The site does not explain what the Inspire is.
Why the mystery?
Does it require surgery?I have a friend who got this. He LOVES it. He uses a wireless remote to turn it on when he lays down for the night, with a delay so it doesn't interfere with him falling asleep. It kicks on once he's sleeping and keeps him breathing good all night. No cords, tubes, water, cleaning...just a remote control.

[gnihcraes]

Looks like 100% coverage by my insurance. A new airsense 11 in being shipped. Yay.

[arbol]

Update-

I bought the AirSense 11, heated tube and P30i pillow mask. I did hours of research and the seems to be the top of the line so it should last a while. It better since I spent $1100 on it.

It showed up today and I set it up according to all the info I could muster. I tried it for a while on the couch. At 4cm, I felt very comfortable. 10 was a bit strong but I guess one becomes accustomed to it.

I also purchased a wearable 02 sensor ring that records oxygen levels and pulse rate throughout the night. I think that will help me fine tune the machine to my exact needs. The past week saw me average about 2 hours with blood oxygen levels below 90%. Last night's average was 89%. That's not good. Link-https://getwellue.com/products/o2ring-wearable-pulse-oximeter

I don't want to ask permission or wait for help to make this thing work it's best so I am learning how to interpret the results and make the necessary corrections.

Gman, I did sign up for the SleepHQ software. It takes the info from the machine and breaks it down second by second. Each breath is recorded, something not accessible by just what the machine shows or what is available in the ResMed app.

I still have not heard from Lincare, insurance or my doctor so screw 'em. I will handle this myself. That way I am beholden to no one and if this doesn't help me, I can sell the machine to one of you guys.

However, the hour on the couch was actually quite pleasant. I could not hear the machine or the air running through it. The mask is comfortable and with the hose in the top of the frame it won't get tangled or try to pull the mask off- I think.

I am actually excited about this nonsense.
A CPAP or BIPAP by itself, isn't going to help your oxygen levels. You will need supplemental oxygen in the form of a machine that generates oxygen or an oxygen tank. Either should be adaptable to your CPAP/BIPAP machine, and then off you go!

-John

[arbol]

Looks like 100% coverage by my insurance. A new airsense 11 in being shipped. Yay.

Good for you!

-John

[eddiememphis]

A CPAP or BIPAP by itself, isn't going to help your oxygen levels. You will need supplemental oxygen in the form of a machine that generates oxygen or an oxygen tank. Either should be adaptable to your CPAP/BIPAP machine, and then off you go!

-John

It has. When wearing it I seldom drop below 94% and never below 90%.

[DDT951]

I have a friend who got this. He LOVES it. He uses a wireless remote to turn it on when he lays down for the night, with a delay so it doesn't interfere with him falling asleep. It kicks on once he's sleeping and keeps him breathing good all night. No cords, tubes, water, cleaning...just a remote control.

That is good to hear.

[eddiememphis]

Looks like 100% coverage by my insurance. A new airsense 11 in being shipped. Yay.

My 11 came with an SD card to record data.

I recommend downloading Oscar to help you interpret the data.

https://www.sleepfiles.com/OSCAR/

It takes a while to learn but it gives a lot of information- the same info your healthcare providers will likely use to tune your machine to your needs.

[gnihcraes]

Cool, I'll check it out!