is BiPAP just for relief? or other therapeutic value?

[MGoBlue]

While I am waiting for the BiPAP (to run 20/15) the sleep tech set my CPAP to 20 with C-FLEX = 3. I hadn't been using C-FLEX or A-FLEX at all.

Last night I slept quite a bit on my back and still managed an AHI of 2. That is MUCH better than what I was getting. I never would have guessed that the C-FLEX would have helped.

Lesson learned: Exhale pressure can be an important variable in lowering one's AHI.

[williamco]

thanks ozij. I am having 2 eyes at your suggestions (and will follow) and MGoBlue's story .
MGoBlue , let us know please the effect of BiPAP on your treatment. Thanks

[twokatmew]

I'm in the process of switching to auto BiPAP now, after a brief trial. My doc has written the Rx, and my DME is currently working out the insurance details.

My pressure's not that high (12cm), but switching to auto BiPAP has cut my AHI in half, with settings of:

minEPAP=7
maxIPAP=16
PS=4

The machine has only gone a wee bit above 13cm, and the 95% pressure is around 12cm.

I don't really understand how BiPAP is making so much difference, but I can sure feel the difference!

[ozij]

Here's a suggestion:

Create a table. The columns should be:
Date Pressure Time_Used C-Flex AHI
Don't include nap data - that gives unreliable AHI -- meaninglessly high.

Choose a minimal fixed pressure you think is right for you. Set C-Flex at whatever strength it feels comfortable.
Record your AHI every day for a week at that pressure.
Raise your pressure 0.5.
Record your AHI every day for a week at that pressure.
Raise your pressure 0.5.
Record your AHI for a week.

Analyse your data: look for trends.

Use the forum members as a sounding board to check the validity of the conclusions you arrive at from you data. You'll have to share the data in order to do that.

thanks ozij. I am having 2 eyes at your suggestions (and will follow) and MGoBlue's story .
MGoBlue , let us know please the effect of BiPAP on your treatment. Thanks

One week later