Newly diagnosed, need some advice on equipment please

emak · Post by **emak** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:01 pm

Hello every one, I'm new here since I just got diagnosed with moderate OSA. I'm needing some help from someone who's experienced, in understanding what I really need. My prescription was for a 11cm machine with heated humidifier. Since I don't have insurance, I'll of course be buying online to save the most money. So far I have looked at Cpap/com as well as secondwindcpap.com (who sells used equipment..seems a little gross). From what I understand so far I need to buy 3 seperate things.... I need a machine (duh), plus a mask, plus filters. Am I leaving anything out? Also, do internet suppliers generally set the pressure for you? What happens when it comes time for maintenance if you buy from a net supplier? I mean no disrespect by asking so many questions right off the bat, but I've got to get this figured out to cure myself. Thanx everyone

Bearded_One · Post by **Bearded_One** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:11 pm

You will need a CPAP machine and mask. You may want to get a heated humidifier (not everybody uses one) and spare filters are a good idea. You will need two different types of filters; foam and white [fine].

The provider will set your CPAP to your prescribed pressure; you will have to fax your prescription to them.

emak · Post by **emak** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:16 pm

Bearded_One wrote:You will need a CPAP machine and mask. You may want to get a heated humidifier (not everybody uses one) and spare filters are a good idea. You will need two different types of filters; foam and white [fine].

The provider will set your CPAP to your prescribed pressure; you will have to fax your prescription to them.

Thanks, I was wondering why is a humidifier even necessary? It sounds like a cumbersome addition just for the company to make money. Does it make a big difference? I never use a humidifier in my home, I live in the south east as it is always very humid anyway, in the summer at least.

DreamStalker · Post by **DreamStalker** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:21 pm

emak wrote:
Bearded_One wrote:You will need a CPAP machine and mask. You may want to get a heated humidifier (not everybody uses one) and spare filters are a good idea. You will need two different types of filters; foam and white [fine].

The provider will set your CPAP to your prescribed pressure; you will have to fax your prescription to them.
Thanks, I was wondering why is a humidifier even necessary? It sounds like a cumbersome addition just for the company to make money. Does it make a big difference? I never use a humidifier in my home, I live in the south east as it is always very humid anyway, in the summer at least.

Makes a difference for some ... depends where you live and what your sinuses prefer.

Bearded_One · Post by **Bearded_One** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:21 pm

I don't like using a humidifier and they are a pain in the butt to use, especially when traveling. Humidifiers are also a big problem if you want to use a battery during a power outage or while camping.

sleepycarol · Post by **sleepycarol** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 7:35 pm

You might be able to do without a humidifier if you region is humid. I live in the midwest and right now our humidity it really high and so I have totally taken my humidifier off from my machine.

You will need a machine, long hose, and mask.

Depending upon your money situation cpap.com has reasonable prices or you might try cpapauction.com or craigslist.com.

Good luck.

Gerald · Post by **Gerald** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 8:49 pm

Emak......

My diagnosis was the same as yours.....And I had to purchase my own equipment because Medicare said I didn't qualify.

If I were in your shoes (and knowing what I know now), here's what I'd purchase:

Remstar M-Series AFLEX with integral heated Humidifier
Aura Headrest Nasal Style Mask
Extra Filters (both "fine" and "foam")
Quick Disconnect Hose Couplers
Right Angle Swivel Connector for M-Series
Analyzer Software
Card Reader for M-Series Smartcard
Hose Cover (helps prevent rainout)
Lensenoh Lanolin for nares
SPO 7500 Oximeter with SPO software
Swinging Arm for overhead hose support
Shallow cookie pan (nightstand protector - leak insurance)
Non-Slip shelf lining material (place under cookie pan)
Emergency 12V Power Plug with cable & clips for car battery connection

Some will disagree with some of my equipment list....because all of us are different....and we all have different preferences.

Some will suggest a F&P HC-150 humidifier....but, I've never felt the need to go that way. I get along fine with the crappy M-Series water tank....but, I'm a mechanic....and I can make most anything work.

There's almost 2-year's worth of reasoning behind each item in the specs I've listed above.....and pages could be written in support of my choices.

Bottom line, you can't go too far wrong with what I've suggested. There'll be a little waste because you'll find a thing or two that you don't like. You'll tweak & tune as you go along. Over time, you'll find what works for you.

I purchased most of my equipment from CPAP.com. The Oximeter came from Turner Medical. Both firms were easy and nice to do business with.

The main thing is to get going without delay.....and read everything listed in the "yellow lightbulb" section. You'll learn fast.

Hope this helps.........

Gerald

Gerald · Post by **Gerald** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 9:01 pm

Emak........

A few more comments.......

In two years of 100% use, I've needed no maintenance from anyone. Out of the (3) M-Series machines that I've bought, one of the crappy water tanks leaked.....but I fixed the problem with a pocket knife.

As for setting the pressures....you'll quickly learn how to set your own pressures.....and take charge of your own therapy program by watching your software reports.

In short.....this ain't rocket science.

All of us are looking for the best results with the most comfort and least inconvenience. Once you get your system up and running....tweaked and tuned to fit your personal preferences....you'll grow to "love" your machine.

I wouldn't want to be without mine.

Gerald

Slinky · Post by **Slinky** » Mon Jul 07, 2008 10:06 pm

Unless finances are REALLY tight for you BE SURE to buy AT LEAST a fully data capable CPAP. The data capabilities can make all the difference in the world in adjusting to CPAP therapy if you aren't going to have much local assistance.

Also, be aware that Resmed and Respironics, the two LEADERS of fully data capable CPAPs, have instituted MAP (minimum advertised pricing) policies for online DME suppliers so ALWAYS ask if the supplier has a "unadvertised price" or "unadvertised sale" on the equipment you want if by either of these companies.

Check to see just what is included from the online DME suppliers. MOST include the carrying case, hose & filters, Users and Clinicians Manuals in the price of their CPAPs, and thus you would then only need a mask. THAT will be your real difficulty buying online. Finding a mask that fits comfortably w/minimum leaks.

Is your sleep lab "sympathetic" to your having no insurance? Perhaps they would be willing to let you try a few of their masks to find one that is comfortable w/a minimum of leaks so you would have a good idea of which one to buy online. The sleep labs have the equipment and ability to sterilize the masks for reuse.