Newbie question - sort of

[craigme]

About 6 years ago I was diagnosed with very mild sleep apnea. Coupled with the fact that I snored loudly, the sleep doctor prescribed a CPAP machine. I ended up with Resmed S6. I tried to get used to it for a few weeks but was never very successful and pretty lazy about it. I never heard from the doctor office as a follow-up and I ended up just putting the machine in the closet.

Lately I've been pretty tired so I decided to give the CPAP another chance (or rather, give myself another chance for success). I bought a new mask and have tried it for the last few nights with some moderate success.

This morning, though, I started to think about what would happen if the pressure settings from when it was initially set are much higher then what I need today... Could I do damage to my lungs if it's too high? Are there other things I should be worried/aware of?

In a nutshell, I haven't used my CPAP for 6 years and want to start again - if I just start to use it (and it's not an automatic machine) am I taking any kind of chance? Do I need to see a doctor before I start using it again????

Any thoughts or insight from members is appreciated..

[dsm]

Craigme,
Don't worry too much about the pressure & damaging your lungs. It is unlikely to have changed much at all. Maybe 2 CMs difference in either direction but more likely your CMs need is the same. My machine can go up to 20 CMs in quick bursts & often does - normally I am on 13 CMs.

The S6 is a great cpap - very quiet -very well made. It is a basic unit compared to the latest models but it still does an effective job. You can't get any nightly data off it so need to go by how you feel.

Best idea though is to get another sleep study if you can.

Good luck

DSM

[Slinky]

If you have good insurance coverage or can afford it, have that new titration study and get a new fully data capable CPAP. That S6 will make a GREAT backup/travel CPAP for you.

[Follow Up Call]

If you can't get a new machine, you are at least eligible for new supplies (Mask, hose, filters) your DME will be happy to bill your insurance for those.

[craigme]

Thanks for the feedback. Good to know I can keep on going w/ the CPAP and not be harming myself
I'll also call my old doctors office and maybe go in for a visit - possibly get another test...
Thanks again - I"m new to this forum and am amazed at all activity on the boards - It's awesome to have a place to look for some answers...

[kteague]

If for some reason another study is not feasible, maybe your doc could order a two week trial on an autopap to see if your pressure needs are the same. Then if need be the pressure on your old machine can be adjusted accordingly.