dsm wrote:The BPM of 18 is just too high.

I don't agree. For the past 20 years, I've been on a BPM of 20, and it's been great. The new BPM of 18 is as a result of my recent sleep study and is less than the 20 I've been on since 1988!

- Jeff

Thanks much for the replies. I don't want the Inspiratory Time to be 3 seconds. On my old machine, it is about 1.5 seconds, and I am happy with that. I have not yet put the new machine into clinical (provider?) mode to look at the settings. However, I have done some crude timing with a stopwatch. He...

I've received my new Respironics BiPAP S/T from my DME. Their young RT has little experience with this machine, and there is something wrong with the setup. Not having the provider manual, I'm don't know which setting is incorrect. I'm hoping one of you can provide some guidance. My basic settings a...

ozij - Am I correct to assume that "rainout" refers to condensation forming in the circuit and getting into the mask? You're right -- that has never been a problem with "old failthful." I must find and read all the tips about the HeadRest. I haven't been on this forum very much and don't really know...

Rested and Dreamer - Thanks for the information and links. My DME is a small local company, which means I get good, personal attention. But they don't have much of anything on hand, so it has to be ordered. I seem to be getting a lot of recommendations for the HeadRest, but it's quite difficult to k...

Slinky - Don't worry. I plan to keep "old failthful" around no matter what happens with a new mask. That ugly mask -- and the right doctor -- changed my life. I was in bad shape before starting nighttime ventilation. Massive "CO2" headaches every morning, falling asleep at work, terrible fatigue all...

Babs - It's actually very comfortable, especially compared to the off-the-shelf masks of the day. The standard masks of 1988 gave me open sores on my cheeks after just one night. My custom mask was molded to my face, so it fits perfectly. It doesn't block my mouth, so I can talk while using it. And ...

Hi Sharon - If I order a Respironics or Resmed mask through my DME, it can be returned within 30 days if I don't like it. If I want to try a mask from another manufacturer, I'll be on my own. The Return Insurance option from CPAP.com may be worthwhile in that case. How did you learn enough about the...

Sharon - Thanks for your reply about the headrest. There certainly are a lot of masks from which to choose. It may be time-consuming and/or expensive to find the right one. My DME deals mainly with Respironics and Resmed and is not very familiar with other manufacturers. So I may be on my own if I w...

Thanks for the informatioin, Slinky. About 5 or 6 years ago, I asked my pulmonary doc if he was still referring patients for these custom masks. He said no, it was no longer necessary. He said the wide variety of good masks now available meant that custom masks were no longer needed. I consider myse...

I only have one mask to recommend - The Nasal Aire II. Lightweight, comfortable, and is the only thing I can tolerate all night long. Babette - Thanks for your recommendation and the very detailed description of your experience. This is exactly the sort of advice I was hoping for. Does anyone else ...

You have actually used the same mask for the last 20 years? Well the mask I've been using for the last 5 years; although I get a new one each year has been the Respironics Profile Lite nasal mask. Yes, I have used the mask shown in the photos since 1988. In those days, there were very few choices f...

Medicare has finally approved a new Bi-PAP machine and mask for me. I need help and advice about selecting a mask. Background: I've used the same nasal mask for almost 20 years. I don't mean the same type of mask; I mean the same actual mask for 20 years. You can see it here: http://www.astronomyboy...

KimGent01 wrote: Anyway, respironics has a wonderful patient assistance program if you qualify under their financial guidelines

I've been to Respironics' web site and can't find any information about their patient assistance program. Can you point me to some information about the program?

Thanks,

Jeff

I have been using using a Respironics BiPAP S/T machine for nocturnal ventilation for about 15 years. I have central apnea and severe scoliosis due to childhood polio. My current BiPAP S/T (I'm on my third one) was purchased by my former employer's insurance. I have since retired on permanent disabi...