Newbie question
I am confused about the max/min pressures and the pressure the Dr recommended. Mine mentioned a pressure of 5 but the machine was set at 4/20 (I have since changed it to 6/8 and found a great difference for my second night - I lasted 2 hours!). What is that pressure of 5? Does that mean the first number should be 5? Also, what are the disadvantages of having the pressure within such a small range? I have not downloaded Sleepyhead yet since I have slept so little with the cpap yet...
RE: Newbie question
Autoset machines can either work within a range of pressures (APAP) or at a single fixed pressure (CPAP). Your Dr seems to assume or prescribe a fixed pressure of 5 cm h2o (which seems very low) in which case your machine should be set to CPAP mode.
The 4 / 20 setting is what we call wide open - it's just the machine set at the highest and lowest pressures it can deliver. Some Drs use this as a way of titrating the required pressures. They set the machine wide open then see what pressures the machine delivers. This sounds fine in theory but doesn't always work out in practice.
At this point, do you have a written prescription? You should ask your Dr for a copy so that you know what pressure he really wants you to have. The you have a firm basis for any adjustment you might need to make. (I always make my Drs give me written advice cos it's just too easy to get confused or misunderstand something in the consulting room).
If the written prescription is for a constant pressure of 5, I would query it.
RE: Newbie question
So where does the 5 come in when the pressure is set at min/max? I am not sure i understand - I also don't trust the ENT who wrote the prescription or his staff...I am changing to another sleep specialist but only have an appointment in three weeks time.
RE: Newbie question
Somnia, a pressure of 5 cmH2O is pretty low, but it may be fine. There is just no way to judge efficacy unless you take a look at the data. Download Sleepyhead and take a look at what is going on, or look at the therapy data display on your machine. You can view one-day, 7-day or 30 day summary data right on the display for AHI, pressure and the types of events that occur. If your machine is not showing that, then "Essentials" needs to e switched off in the provider menu.
Get a copy of the provider manual, get the software. We look forward to helping.
