Post
by hbananas » Thu Mar 30, 2017 5:16 pm
I have been using an Intellipap autoadjust machine for six years. I went all the way, bought the add-on data module and SmartLink software. I put it through the paces and gathered gobs of data.
All the reporting has shown me is that I am better off leaving the machine set at the pressure I was originally prescribed. When I switched sleep doctors, I showed her my recent reports, and a fresh sleep study shows everything the same, all this time. I purchased my Intellipap without insurance reimbursement, and today I am purchasing its replacement the same way. Good sleep is much too important to leave the decisions about masks and machines to some DME or insurance company. I understand why everyone gets so angry and frustrated with fighting for what they must have. That's why I don't mess around with them.
When my husband was diagnosed, he followed his doctor's instructions and got the leased bottom-line machine that was nothing but a pain in the rear. It even had an audible beep whenever it was turned on or off, something that was really endearing. He returned it and inherited my then two-year old Resmed S8 single level CPAP, and we reset it to his prescription. It has taken a licking and keeps on not ticking, but quietly whooshing, giving him the therapy he needs. He has borrowed my Intellipap, set on auto to see if he preferred it, and he does not.
I got fed up with replacing the humidifier on my Intellipap every couple of years. My machine initially cost me about $500, and I have spent an additional $300 on new humidifiers. Today I ordered the Resmed Airstart 10. Basic brick. Single setting, with exhalation relief, and the ramp feature, which I don't use. $280. Why? Because this brick has an integrated humidifier, is reportedly very quiet, and gives me everything I want from a CPAP at this stage in my experience. I see my sleep doctor twice a year. I also have excessive daytime sleepiness, even with a good night's sleep, and she prescribes stimulants to keep me safe and relatively productive. If things deteriorate, she will see that and have me do a new study.
I'm just saying that the basic brick does have its place. I am choosing one, with the knowledge that fully data capable machines exist and provide wonderful information to users; and that auto adjustment is fantastic for the people who need it. I have the choice and the means to get what I want, within reason, and this is actually what I want. If you must have the additional features and reporting, keep fighting the good fight to get what you need from your healthcare providers! Sweet dreams and healthy wishes from my two-brick household to yours.
Resmed AirSense 10 Autoset w/ HumidAir integrated humidifier; Rx Pressure 11; Swift FX for Her; Missouri