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Hi! I just started CPAP therapy about a week ago. My sleep study results were AHI 3.5/hr, RDI 16.6/hr - since my AHI does not qualify for insurance coverage, I have been adjusting my own settings. I am currently using the airsense 11 and the standard frame airtouch n30i mask, small wide cushion. My mask leak average has been in the 20-30L/min range on the myAir app so I downloaded the OSCAR app hoping for some more clarity. I notice when I switch sleeping positions, there is definitely some leakage. I have tried switching the cushion to a p30i small as well, but the whistling bothers me and feels uncomfortable. I am wondering if trying the smaller frame version of the mask would benefit or would adjusting the pressure settings help? Would you correct mask leak first or pressure settings, is the mask leak skewing the pressure requirements? I would really appreciate help with interpreting the OSCAR data and any advice or recommendations with improving pressure settings/mask leak. Thank you in advance!
Welcome to the board - at first glance your machine is sensing flow limitations nearly the entire time you're sleeping which suggests you could use more minimum pressure. The problem is, you have a leak issue with your mask as you mentioned. Have you considered going to larger pillows to get a better seal? Some of your leaks are mouth leaks it looks like (you can tell because you can see the "stair-step" effect) - are you also taping your mask or using a soft cervical collar to keep your chin up?
How did you decide on EPR 1? I'd focus on getting your minimum pressure correct before enabling EPR, personally. I'd recommend trialing 6cmH20 minimum and then 7cmH20 minimum over the next couple of nights until your flow rate graph isn't so choppy.
With the P30i I found that I had to switch to the smaller frame. As another woman, you may need to as well.
You have leaks, but not enough to skew your Oscar chart, so don't worry about that.
The left panel of your chart shows that you need 10 for your minimum pressure. I suggest you raise your ramp pressure to 7, then set your pressure range to 10 to 14. I think you will sleep a lot better.
Best of luck with improving your therapy and comfort!
Machine: ResMed AirCurve 10 Vauto
Mask: Bleep DreamPort Sleep Solution and F&P Nova Micro
It's been a while since I posted on here, I was wondering if anyone can help me adjust my settings again? I now use the F30i full face mask and a soft cervical collar along with cpap therapy. The leaks have improved but I wake up with aerophagia every morning. Any assistance is appreciated, thank you!
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