Machine Selection

[martimorris]

Hello all, I'm very happy to have found this community.

I started therapy about 2 weeks ago. It's been quite an adjustment but I'm doing fine and able to sleep. Here is my question: What choices do I have regarding machines? I was given the Respironics Dreamstation basic CPAP with humidifier. I like that it is small and quiet but I do not like that I am not able to track my progress or lack thereof. The app that connects via bluetooth only gives me the hours used for each day. Nothing about AHI, events, or even mask fit/leakage.

My insurance requires a 2 month rental before purchase for compliance reasons so I believe I need to act quickly if there is any hope of a change in machine. What are your thoughts? Is there a machine you recommend that gives the user more information? Thanks for your time!

[Pugsy]

Please read this blog especially the part down the page "help, I have been given a brick".
https://maskarrayed.wordpress.com/

If you want full data and want to stay with the DreamStation model line then either the
DreamStation Pro CPAP (fixed cpap like you have now)
or the
DreamStation Auto CPAP (which has fixed cpap plus auto adjusting modes...so like 2 machines in one) and this one would be my first choice.

If you want to change to ResMed brand then these are full data
AirSense 10 Elite
AirSense 10 AutoSet
AirSense 10 AutoSet for Her

I would suggest try simple first...just go back to where you got the machine and tell them you want a machine that will give you full efficacy data. See what they say...they might just do it without a big fuss.
They also might not and that's when you need to be prepared to do something drastic. All explained in the blog above.

[sptrout]

I have no experience with the DreamStation, but I did get to see it next to an AirSense at cpap.com's B&M store. The DreamStation looks very nice, but with the humidifier attached it requires a very large footprint on your nightstand; at least 2 to 3 times more space than an AirSense with its humidifier attached. That issue alone made the DreamStation a no go for me; I need the nightstand space for other things also. You may want to consider how much space you have available.

[ChicagoGranny]

The DreamStation looks very nice, but with the humidifier attached it requires a very large footprint on your nightstand; at least 2 to 3 times more space than an AirSense with its humidifier attached.

Is that true? The manufacturers' specs say not.

AirSense with humidifier --- 10.04 in L x 4.57 in W x 5.91 in H ### Footprint 46 sq. in. ### Volume 271 cu. in.
Weight - Machine with Water Chamber: 2.75 lbs (44 oz.)

DreamStation with humidifier --- Approx. 7.6 in W x 6.2 in L x 3.3 in H ### Footprint 47 sq. in. ### Volume 155 cu. in.
Weight - Machine with Optional Heated Humidifier and Power Supply: Approx. 4.37 lbs

[sptrout]

The DreamStation looks very nice, but with the humidifier attached it requires a very large footprint on your nightstand; at least 2 to 3 times more space than an AirSense with its humidifier attached.

Is that true? The manufacturers' specs say not.

AirSense with humidifier --- 10.04 in L x 4.57 in W x 5.91 in H ### Footprint 46 sq. in. ### Volume 271 cu. in.
Weight - Machine with Water Chamber: 2.75 lbs (44 oz.)

DreamStation with humidifier --- Approx. 7.6 in W x 6.2 in L x 3.3 in H ### Footprint 47 sq. in. ### Volume 155 cu. in.
Weight - Machine with Optional Heated Humidifier and Power Supply: Approx. 4.37 lbs

I did not have the specs with me at the store, but the DreamStation looked huge setting next to the AirSence. I was sort of leaning towards the DreamStation for it looks until I realized that the humidifier tank was as big as the main unit. It was last fall when we visited cpap.com's store so maybe I am forgetting something, but the size difference made the choice simple.

[palerider]

The DreamStation looks very nice, but with the humidifier attached it requires a very large footprint on your nightstand; at least 2 to 3 times more space than an AirSense with its humidifier attached.

Is that true? The manufacturers' specs say not.

AirSense with humidifier --- 10.04 in L x 4.57 in W x 5.91 in H ### Footprint 46 sq. in. ### Volume 271 cu. in.
Weight - Machine with Water Chamber: 2.75 lbs (44 oz.)

DreamStation with humidifier --- Approx. 7.6 in W x 6.2 in L x 3.3 in H ### Footprint 47 sq. in. ### Volume 155 cu. in.
Weight - Machine with Optional Heated Humidifier and Power Supply: Approx. 4.37 lbs

you read the wrong line there, Granny...
Dreamstation:
Dimensions - Machine Alone: 7.6. in L x 6.2 in W x 3.3 in H (19.3 cm L x 15.7 cm W x 8.4 cm H)

Dimensions - Machine and OPTIONAL Humidifier (Excluding Air Outlet Port): 11.7 in L x 7.6 in W x 3.3 in H (29.7 cm L x 19.3 cm W x 8.4 cm H) ### Footprint 88.92 sq. in. ### Volume 293.4 cu. in.

[ChicagoGranny]

Thank you. It didn't make sense.