How Often Do You Change Pressure?

[lewsterr]

After my sleep study just over 18 months ago, my sleep doctor put me on a pressure of 9, which reduced my AHI to about 3.5 (Not bad!). Monitoring my stats via Encore Pro over the following months, I noticed my AHI slowly increasing. When it exceeded 5.0, I increased the pressure to 10. Again, my AHI went down, this time to 2.3, but over the next couple of months started creeping up. This same scenario continued after increasing the pressure to 11, 11.5, and now 12. I can definitely feel the difference in the mornings when my AHI approaches 5.0. It's as if I am in a fog all day. According to Encore Pro, there are absolutely no mask leaks. My mask has always fit very well, and I can definitely detect if a leak is present. Also, according to Encore, I am not experiencing any centrals.

Does anyone have a clue as to what's going on? I am using straight CPAP mode, as the constantly changing pressures in APAP mode interrupt my sleep. I find it hard to believe that, as my body is getting acclimated to the higher pressures, my OSA is becoming worse.

[LSAT]

Since you have an auto, If I was in your situation I would use auto with a small range if 10-12. This small range should not disturb your sleep. You have nothing to lose by trying.

[lewsterr]

Since you have an auto, If I was in your situation I would use auto with a small range if 10-12. This small range should not disturb your sleep. You have nothing to lose by trying.

Thanks for the suggestion, LSAT, but I fail to understand how this will benefit me. I have no problem sleeping at a constant pressure of 12. How is going back to auto and setting a range going to prevent my AHI from steadily increasing?

[LSAT]

Since you have an auto, If I was in your situation I would use auto with a small range if 10-12. This small range should not disturb your sleep. You have nothing to lose by trying.

Thanks for the suggestion, LSAT, but I fail to understand how this will benefit me. I have no problem sleeping at a constant pressure of 12. How is going back to auto and setting a range going to prevent my AHI from steadily increasing?

I guess we won't know unless you try it? You probably do not need a pressure of 12 all the time.

[caffeinatedcfo]

Can you post some data. Is it possible that leaks are causing this? Are you taking any sleep aids or other new meds?

[lewsterr]

Can you post some data. Is it possible that leaks are causing this? Are you taking any sleep aids or other new meds?

I'm not taking any sleep aids and definitely do not have any mask leaks. I occasionally eat after getting home from work at 1:00 a.m., and generally go to bed shortly afterwards. I don't think eating a meal prior to bedtime would make a difference but, now that I think of it, it may be worth going to bed without eating beforehand, and seeing if it makes a difference.

[Goofproof]

For help please post some dailies from encore pro, as was asked. We will be better able to help.

A range on apap of 10 to 12 cm makes sence to me without seeing your data. Jim

I dont change my pressure unless my ahi goes high, then I use encore pro to see what the problem is and possiable solutions. As we age, we wear out, so sometimes changes are needed, for me the pressures are close to the same over 8 years and gaining 100 lbs.

[kteague]

Over several years my pressure needs have increased a couple points. When your AHI goes up, is it consistent or sporadic? Maybe you could keep a journal for a while to see if any trend becomes apparent when watching your AHI and meals and any other tidbits that just may affect AHI.

[lewsterr]

For help please post some dailies from encore pro, as was asked. We will be better able to help.

A range on apap of 10 to 12 cm makes sence to me without seeing your data. Jim

I dont change my pressure unless my ahi goes high, then I use encore pro to see what the problem is and possiable solutions. As we age, we wear out, so sometimes changes are needed, for me the pressures are close to the same over 8 years and gaining 100 lbs.

I think you answered my question, Goofproof...I'm worn out...and I'm continuing to wear out very quickly I really don't have time to post my Encore results until Sunday or Monday due to my work hours (late shift & four 10s), but I'll do it when I get the chance.