How important is which machine is used and what first?

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Rynn01
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How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Rynn01 » Fri Feb 21, 2014 8:23 am

I have my titration study a week from Sunday and will see the dr on the following Tuesday. I want to go in with a pretty good idea of what I want to try first so I can get his opinion on it. So here's my questions.

1) How much does the model of machine matter? It seems like the masks are the big problem.

2) Any certain features I should be aware of?

3) What do I find first? I know I'll probably go through a few masks, but what about the hoses and other accessories?

I have looked at the sticky's but couldn't find my answers. Thanks!
Rynn01

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Bama Rambler
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Bama Rambler » Fri Feb 21, 2014 9:28 am

The machine model is very important! At very least you want a fully data capable machine. Unless you need a specialty machine, you preferably want a auto titrating machine. The machine is the biggest thing you should be concerned about because it's the thing that's going to have to last you the longest. Most people can't just run out and swap machines like you can masks or other accessories. So once you get a machine, you're stuck with it for a while.

To me brand isn't nearly as important as functions. We can't really suggest a model until we know what your requirements are (CPAP, BiPAP, Etc.).

Your DME will provide you with the accessories you need. As for the mask. In all likelihood you're not going to just pick a mask and it be the perfect one for you. You'll most likely have to try at least a few to find the one that suits you best and you should make sure that your DME allows you to try several. Most DME's have a 30 day trial period to try several masks, but be sure to ask about their policy before your commit.

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Julie
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Julie » Fri Feb 21, 2014 9:54 am

The model matters because e.g. Respironics makes a lot of machines with similar names, but if you want the latest best package you need to know which model # to ask for, like the S9 Autoset 560, rather than the Escape (? model #) which doesn't give data except for compliance hours for insurance purposes, though the Elite does, but not as many or as well as the S9. It's best, once you know what you want, to ask your doctor to write the script for that machine, rather than just Apap vs Cpap (Apap's can run as cpaps, but not the reverse), and to write 'mask of patient's choice' as well.

Rynn01
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Rynn01 » Fri Feb 21, 2014 12:43 pm

The S9 line seems to be very popular. Any opinions?

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Bama Rambler
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Bama Rambler » Fri Feb 21, 2014 12:59 pm

The S9 is popular, as is the PR System One 60 series.

Once you know the type of machine you need people will be glad to provide a specific model number.

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Wulfman...

Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Wulfman... » Fri Feb 21, 2014 1:07 pm

Rynn01 wrote:The S9 line seems to be very popular. Any opinions?
The debate about the brands is like choosing between a Ford or Chevy.
Both automobile manufacturers also have their "cheaper" models (basic car, less features).
CPAP manufacturers are no different.
If your automobile insurance said you could replace your car every five years, would you want the cheapest bottom-of-the-line or a full-featured top-of-the-line vehicle.......if there was no difference in the cost to you?


Den

.

Rynn01
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by Rynn01 » Fri Feb 21, 2014 6:12 pm

I would want top of the line, of course. Good way to put it.

I'll wait to see what the dr says before I stress out to much over this I think

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RogerSC
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by RogerSC » Fri Feb 21, 2014 6:21 pm

Just remember that you need to have a machine that records complete sleep data that you can download and track your progress. Otherwise you're just shooting in the dark, not much chance of hitting your target (being healthier and feeling better) that way *smile*.

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sleeplessinaz
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by sleeplessinaz » Fri Feb 21, 2014 7:00 pm

Most of us that have the S9 love it! But the other machine is also popular as well. It is personal preference. I started with Resmed so that's where my loyalty is,
Good luck,
Carrie

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letsride
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by letsride » Sat Feb 22, 2014 10:51 am

sleeplessinaz wrote:Most of us that have the S9 love it!
+1

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robysue
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Re: How important is which machine is used and what first?

Post by robysue » Sat Feb 22, 2014 11:17 am

I wrote these posts a while back when other newbies asked me the same thing.

A very detailed comparison of the features of the Resmed S9 Autoset and the PR System One Auto CPAP: viewtopic/t94287/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=82990&p=866535

A good summary of all the machines sold by the four most commonly available machines in the US. This includes a lot of information about which models are bricks and which record full efficacy data viewtopic.php?f=1&t=94793&p=876727&hili ... ap#p876727

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