First night

[KSMike]

I spent the first night with the new equipment.

I slept 9 hrs. 19 minutes with an AHI of 2.0. The machine was in CPAP mode and the HC150 humidifier was set on 1.5. I did note a couple of times during the night and at wake-up that I was very dry, although the level in the tank did drop so I know the humidifier is doing something. I think I've still got some work to do with mask fit, but it was encouraging to at least have slept through the night. I didn't feel particularly different at wake-up or since, but it's a start. I think tonight I'll change it to auto mode with a small range of 9.0 - 10.0.

Other impressions:

1. My first impression looking at the EncoreViewer report is that there isn't a lot of value in it other than the statistics on the last page. Maybe that's just learning curve.

2. While I don't have anything to compare to, I would imagine that the Snugglehose is one of the best enhancements a person could make to their system.

3. After waking, I laid there for 10 minutes trying to figure out what to do with the hose to help make sure it could dry out completely. It seems to need some sort of hanger. It also seems like it would be prudent to wipe down the seal on the mask with something; some sort of wipe would be a good idea. Any suggestions?

4. It's hard for me to imagine that any local DME could even approach the selection, service, or shipping speed of CPAP.com. I couldn't be more impressed.

[ozij]

Congratulations, Mike.
O.

[CorgiGirl]

Wow! I didn't make more than 4 hours for the first few weeks! I'm impressed! Keep up the good work!!! But I wouldn't change pressure yet. See how you do for a week or so. It may take some time for you to feel better. Depends on how much sleep deficit you have....

Some of the Encore Viewer data is less important to me than others -- but tracking AHI and leak rate over time is very important to making sure your therapy is going well.

My hubby and I both have xPAPs and we don't bother to clean our hoses ever. We just swap them out every six months as advised because the plastic starts to break down. We use Citrus II wipes to clean our masks daily.

[RipVW]

Hooray for you, Mike! cpap.com does carry wipes, but I've never used them.
https://www.cpap.com/simple-find-cpap-p ... wipes.html
I just rinse my mask daily under hot water, and every weekend I let it soak in a bowl of hot soapy water. Probably no need to dry the hose, since your humidifier just gets it damp immediately when you turn on your machine. May your good CPAP experience continue!

[Gerald]

Mike.......

You are an inspiration....to those who are having difficulty now....and those who will follow later.

You're doing everything "right".....and I predict your proactive approach.....will add years to your life.....and better quality to those years.

My applause...........

[Perchancetodream]

The Citrus II CPAP Mask Wipes, available on CPAP (https://www.cpap.com/productpage/beaumo ... eaner.html) or Amazon, were recommended by the manufacturer of my mask. They work very well at removing the oils from the mask so you can get a good seal.

Susan

[KSMike]

Thanks for all the help and advice! I don't take much credit, other than for taking the time to try and learn from you experts who have been so generous with the sharing of information.

I was hesitant to change any settings after one night too, but I did catch myself a couple of times during the night feeling my throat close during exhilation, like the pressure "wasn't quite there."

This might be a dumb question, but is there a good reason not to use something like Clorox wipes on the mask seal?

[Grems4ever]

Way to go! That's a great start time. Many people take weeks to get even close to that number.

Keep up the good work.

David

[LoQ]

This might be a dumb question, but is there a good reason not to use something like Clorox wipes on the mask seal?

It's not a dumb question, and yes, there is a good reason not to use those. They might damage your mask. Bleach is very corrosive. Clorox wipes might not have bleach in them, but I suspect they have something nearly as destructive.

[rogier40]

Regarding wipes...I would recommend plain, unscented 'baby wipes' from your local market. They're inexpensive, and are perfect for daily cleaning; no residual odor, no harmful chemical to mask or face, and no lint. They will effectively remove the body oils that coat the mask cushions after wearing. Although hygiene is important, you will probably be less concerned with 'germs' as you get more experienced. At least, I felt that way.