Not well informed

I am brand new to this forum. I've been using a CPAP for approx. 9 years. Prior to initial sleep study I was having trouble staying awake during the day and I had always been a terrible snorer. I took to CPAP therapy instantly with great results; within a short time I felt almost addicted to the CPAP and now I look forward to it. During the last couple of years I have some times felt some sleepiness diring the day, though not as much as I did before using a CPAP machine. I've never been back to a Dr. regarding sleep apnea and I've always been happy with my CPAP machine. Now I see ads and messages about the new auto titrating machines, improved masks,etc. I need to buy a new mask so I've been looking at some websites. It does seem logical that the correct pressure or number for me would change over time for a number of reasons. It also seems logical that an auto-titrating machine would be a perfect solution. If I can avoid it, I don't want to go do a sleep study with the wires and such.

Is it true; is auto-tritating the answer ? Is there any validity to the home study kits ?

Home study kits are primarily intended for initial diagnosis; but you already know you have apnea.
Auto cpaps can be used in either auto or straight pressure mode--you can use whatever works/feels best.
If used in cpap mode, the user can switch to apap once in a while to confirm ideal pressure settings.
If your titrated pressure is already high, you might now need a bipap, for which you would need a sleep study.
If your doctor has not been informed of your new symptoms, tell him/her.
Apnea is not always the reason.

1. Yes, there is validity to the home study kits. Look for ones approved by Medicare and most insurance companies.

2. An Autopap can retitrate you without the need of a sleep lab titration. We can help you if you decide to go that route. The real trick will be getting a prescription for ANY new machine, since you will probably have to have a sleep study to confirm the continuing need. So if you want insurance to pay for your new Autopap, then you will need a new sleep test. You might start by calling your insurance company to find out if THEY cover home sleep studies and who the authorized providers of home sleep studies are for your insurer. If you plan to pay out of pocket for your new machine, then you only have to worry about getting an up to date prescription (or not, if you buy it on "grey market" channels).

3. Be sure to read my blogpost "What you need to know BEFORE you meet your DME" so if you go the DME route for your new APAP you don't have to play the stupid DME games.

My list of machines needs updating. ResMed just came out with the new S10, which means that you may be able to get an S9 Autoset at a better price.

This video by an expert may be of interest to you. It's a new home testing system that incorporates most of the regular sleep lab protacols:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9kZRPC ... OX6MMq08gQ