what is the difference between a Bi-level CPAP and a BiPAP?

[brose005]

Thanks so much for the helpful advice especially the wiki reference. So it seems there are two major companies. Philips Respironics and ResMed and their latest Auto models are the Dreamstation Auto and the AirSense 10 Auto. Are they equally as good? Does it matter which one I choose? Is there anything else I should be considering when picking between these two machines?

Thanks again for all the help!

Both machines are effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea, and each has a slightly different approach. The Resmed responds to obstructive events more rapidly, while the Respironics seems to hold closer to minimum pressure settings, but tests higher pressure (1.5 cm) routinely throughout the night. The most relevant thing for you, is both work on both 110 and 220 AC power. The Resmed uses a 24 volt power supply, and Respironics uses 12-volt. In the event you ever need to operate a machine on battery power, the Respironics is a bit easier to adapt.

Thanks for the detailed comparison. That was very helpful.

Lastly, in terms of masks, what do you suggest?

Thanks again!

[brose005]

Thanks so much for the helpful advice especially the wiki reference. So it seems there are two major companies. Philips Respironics and ResMed and their latest Auto models are the Dreamstation Auto and the AirSense 10 Auto. Are they equally as good? Does it matter which one I choose? Is there anything else I should be considering when picking between these two machines?

Thanks again for all the help!

Both machines are effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea, and each has a slightly different approach. The Resmed responds to obstructive events more rapidly, while the Respironics seems to hold closer to minimum pressure settings, but tests higher pressure (1.5 cm) routinely throughout the night. The most relevant thing for you, is both work on both 110 and 220 AC power. The Resmed uses a 24 volt power supply, and Respironics uses 12-volt. In the event you ever need to operate a machine on battery power, the Respironics is a bit easier to adapt.

Thanks for the detailed comparison. That was very helpful.

Lastly, in terms of masks, what do you suggest?

Thanks again!

Ok. So i have been doing some research and I think I want an full face mask as I seem to be a mouth breather. There are a lot of articles like this one that say the Mirage Quattro is the best mask around.

Its definitely not the cheapest but I'm considering picking it up. Any thoughts on this mask or other full face masks that you would recommend checking out. Just want to feel good that I made the right choice.

Cheers,
Ben

[chill]

I don't think there is any "best" mask. The best is what works for your face and the way you sleep. Best for you may not be best for me. Several of us here use the F&P Simplus and have had good results. You really want to try them out -- at pressure -- before deciding.

[brose005]

Ok, thanks for the advice. I looked at the return policy and looks like I am given at least a month or so to return them so I guess I'll just order a couple of them, keep the one that works for me and return the rest!