Blocking mask exhaust: A way to decrease centrals?
Hi,
I've read a study (mentioned in one of the forum posts), where the authors added some tubing system to increase the amount of CO2 in the system, so that hypocapnia was prevented, decreasing central events. My question: Our masks have some purge holes (the dreamwear has them at the top and also at the nasal piece) to prevent hypercapnia. What would happen if we taped one of them? Wouldn't it increase CO2 to some extent? As the 2 holed areas are quite far, I assume we can experiment with blocking one area or the other (or both, or half blocking one area,etc..) and check the results to see if centrals are decreased. Is it too dangerous or worth giving a try?
Thanks...
RE: Blocking mask exhaust: A way to decrease centrals?
The EERS methodology is a proven methodology. It consists of blocking the existing mask vents, not the anti asphyxiation valve, and extending a new vent further away from the mask via a length of coraflex tubing, then connecting that to your CPAP hose. The net effect is to slightly increase the amount of CO2 that is rebreathed thus preventing Central Apneas. The amount is titrated by lengthening the coraflex hose.
I would not use an unproven methodology for this.
RE: Blocking mask exhaust: A way to decrease centrals?
No tape over the vents. Nope.
Try what bonjour suggested.
PaulaO
Take a deep breath and count to zen.
RE: Blocking mask exhaust: A way to decrease centrals?
(06-03-2020, 12:54 PM)drmaestro Wrote: Hi,
I've read a study (mentioned in one of the forum posts), where the authors added some tubing system to increase the amount of CO2 in the system, so that hypocapnia was prevented, decreasing central events. My question: Our masks have some purge holes (the dreamwear has them at the top and also at the nasal piece) to prevent hypercapnia. What would happen if we taped one of them? Wouldn't it increase CO2 to some extent? As the 2 holed areas are quite far, I assume we can experiment with blocking one area or the other (or both, or half blocking one area,etc..) and check the results to see if centrals are decreased. Is it too dangerous or worth giving a try?
Thanks...
This would markedly decrease
flow, and it's definitely not something I'd want happening while I'm trying to get a decent sleep, especially if it forces my machine to attempt to compensate by increasing fan speed.
RE: Blocking mask exhaust: A way to decrease centrals?