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[Equipment] exhaling thorugh pillows
#11
RE: exhaling thorugh pillows
Try a larger size nasal pillow.
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#12
RE: exhaling thorugh pillows
(10-31-2017, 10:08 PM)confusedcpap Wrote: I have adjusted setting from nasal mask to nasal pillow, I have tried settings 1-3 on EPR, and I am still having a hard time exhaling through nasal pillows.  I have even cleaned the "exhale vents" and still the same problem.

That is a bit strange, have you got then to tight?
I use the FX pillows, and they are fine if you keep them just tight enough to stop leaks, however, If I tighten them more than that they restrict the amount of air.  Maybe if you have tried the EPR then there is a problem with your nose if you have tried a bigger size.
They should just rest against your nostrils and not go to far in, if they are to small they will tend to do this and restrict the flow.
I don't find it a problem even with one nostril blocked at the pressures I am at which is almost 12 now.  It has crept up due to slight leaks and the machine compensates until I move and it seals again.  Still getting green smiley face most mornings unless I knock the mask off altogether.

I can't remember what pressure you are at and what nasal pillows you are using?
I can't see why you are having a problem breathing out if:
You are using EPR.
Pillows are the right size.
Pressure is not very high.
Vents are clear.
Pillows are not to tight.
You are on AUTO APAP.
The hose is free and not kinked.

Do you feel the pressure drop when you are using Expiry Relief?
Do you hear the machine drop in speed/noise?  (It is quiet anyway, but if you listen closely it should change when you breath out).
If you are using the soft FX pillows, make sure one side has not collapsed or is flattened.

When I look up what you are using I will think half of this does not even apply Oh-jeez

Anyway, I am out of ideas   Thinking-about for now.
I am NOT a doctor.  I try to help, but do not take what I say as medical advice.


Every journey, however large or small starts with the first step.

Sleep-well
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#13
RE: exhaling thorugh pillows
If you are using the Resmed Airfit P10 (you didn't say), try the next size larger nasal pillows. This often helps reduce exhale resistance.
Sleeprider
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#14
RE: exhaling thorugh pillows
I used to use the P10s regularly  and on occasion would experience what you are describing.  My therapy consistently is around lower pressures and I found two things usually caused the sensation of exhale constriction:

1) too low starting pressure.  So I gradually increased minimum pressure over time until it was comfortable.  EPR at 1.
2) rainout or any condensation just short of rainout - make absolutely sure that you do not have any condensation in the short hose and the pillows,  otherwise you will feel constricted.  Rainout/condensation solutions include hose cover, increasing room temperature to reduce the ambient humidity in your sleeping environment, and setting climate-line tube to auto if you are using one.

Let us know how you fare.
Coffee

Happy Pappin'
Never Give In, Never Give Up




INFORMATION ON APNEA BOARD FORUMS OR ON APNEABOARD.COM SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AS MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR MEDICAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. 
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