Central vs Obstructive Sleep Apnea

You think that it might be kinda important for a person to know for sure if they are having obstructive apneas vs central apneas?????
I can't believe that anyone would even consider using a brick machine when there is the remote chance of central apneas being a potential issue and this is the only machine they have available.

If the doc won't help you get a full time apap capable machine....at least get the Pro model because it does offer full data and a limited time auto (apap) mode to try.

JerryL wrote: ↑

Mon May 14, 2018 3:24 pm

zoocrewphoto wrote: ↑

Sun May 13, 2018 2:31 am

I would explain to the doctor that you really want to be successful with the treatment, and you are afraid that a machine without data won't be able to help you be successful.You didn't realize until you got home that the machine they gave you won't be able to show you what type of events you are having, how often, etc, or even if your mask is leaking much. Since you are not able to afford anything without medi-cal, this is your only chance to get a good machine. Get the doctor on your side.

That makes sense. If I understand you correctly, you are suggesting that I try to persuade my doctor to help me upgrade from the CPAP machine with no data ("DreamStation CPAP") to the CPAP machine with data ("DreamStation Pro CPAP") -- but you are not suggesting that I push for the AutoPAP machine. Is that correct?

It seemed as if BTS, Palerider, and Barb were recommending that I push for the AutoPAP (but perhaps settle for the Pro if my doctor won't help me get an AutoPAP).

Your doctor should prescribe the best machine..he shouldn't have any concerns about the aount insurance pays

JerryL wrote: ↑

Mon May 14, 2018 3:24 pm

zoocrewphoto wrote: ↑

Sun May 13, 2018 2:31 am

I would explain to the doctor that you really want to be successful with the treatment, and you are afraid that a machine without data won't be able to help you be successful.You didn't realize until you got home that the machine they gave you won't be able to show you what type of events you are having, how often, etc, or even if your mask is leaking much. Since you are not able to afford anything without medi-cal, this is your only chance to get a good machine. Get the doctor on your side.

That makes sense. If I understand you correctly, you are suggesting that I try to persuade my doctor to help me upgrade from the CPAP machine with no data ("DreamStation CPAP") to the CPAP machine with data ("DreamStation Pro CPAP") -- but you are not suggesting that I push for the AutoPAP machine. Is that correct?

It seemed as if BTS, Palerider, and Barb were recommending that I push for the AutoPAP (but perhaps settle for the Pro if my doctor won't help me get an AutoPAP).

Personally, I would try for the auto machine as it is often better to have more options than less. But this sounds like a difficult situation to get your machine changed. Your best argument is the data, so that has to be your main argument. To really argue for the auto machine (after already getting a machine), you need to be able to argue that you need a range of pressures, and it doesn't sound like your sleep study supported that argument.

It is much harder to change machines after you bring one home. So, you have to provide a valid argument for how the current machine is NOT sufficient for your medical needs.