enquiry on ordering a new CPAP machine

[Jocelyn]

Hi everyone! I am new here and new to CPAP.
My husband is only 27 years old but he has been suffering from SA for many years without realising it. Only after recently he underwent a sleeping test, then we know that he got serious Sleeping apnea.
As a fresh user, what are the things i should look out for our very first CPAP machine?
I would love to hear all your experience.
Thanks in advance!

[Jocelyn]

Shall I look for CPAP or APAP for our ever first machine?

[JohnBFisher]

Hi everyone! I am new here and new to CPAP.
My husband is only 27 years old but he has been suffering from SA for many years without realising it. Only after recently he underwent a sleeping test, then we know that he got serious Sleeping apnea.
As a fresh user, what are the things i should look out for our very first CPAP machine?
I would love to hear all your experience.
Thanks in advance!

Welcome! He's certainly not alone. I waited until my mid 30s before I agreed to a sleep study. Should have had one in my late 20s, based on all the symptoms. Glad your husband had it done fairly early. Managing the Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) helps avoid all sorts of health problems (high blood pressure, diabetes, weight gain, etc.). Plus he will regain a lot of energy and focus.

First, you want to find a DME that will work with you and your husband to help both of you understand your machine and how to live with it. That can be harder than you might think.

Second, he will want a machine that includes a humidifier. Most do these days, but it helps have the moist air, since the compressed air tends to dry out the airway.

Third, he will want a machine that includes "full data capabilities". In essence, he wants a machine he can remove a card from (now usually an SD card - like you use in a camera) and find out what the machine observed. Did he restricted airflow events (hypopneas) during the night? Did he have apneas during the night? This can help track the effectiveness of the therapy.

Fourth, if possible, he should ask for an APAP (Automatic CPAP) unit. This will automatically increase the pressure should it find that he has some hypopneas or apneas. Essentially, it tries to keep his airway open, even if things change during his sleep. What might change? Well most people have more problems on their back than on their side. Also, most people have more apneas during REM sleep (when the body relaxes very deeply as the dreams occur). And any alcohol before bedtime can lead to more apneas (it is a muscle relaxant - including the muscles that help keep the airway open).

Anyway, hope that helps.

[Jocelyn]

Hi everyone! I am new here and new to CPAP.
My husband is only 27 years old but he has been suffering from SA for many years without realising it. Only after recently he underwent a sleeping test, then we know that he got serious Sleeping apnea.
As a fresh user, what are the things i should look out for our very first CPAP machine?
I would love to hear all your experience.
Thanks in advance!

Welcome! He's certainly not alone. I waited until my mid 30s before I agreed to a sleep study. Should have had one in my late 20s, based on all the symptoms. Glad your husband had it done fairly early. Managing the Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) helps avoid all sorts of health problems (high blood pressure, diabetes, weight gain, etc.). Plus he will regain a lot of energy and focus.

First, you want to find a DME that will work with you and your husband to help both of you understand your machine and how to live with it. That can be harder than you might think.

Second, he will want a machine that includes a humidifier. Most do these days, but it helps have the moist air, since the compressed air tends to dry out the airway.

Third, he will want a machine that includes "full data capabilities". In essence, he wants a machine he can remove a card from (now usually an SD card - like you use in a camera) and find out what the machine observed. Did he restricted airflow events (hypopneas) during the night? Did he have apneas during the night? This can help track the effectiveness of the therapy.

Fourth, if possible, he should ask for an APAP (Automatic CPAP) unit. This will automatically increase the pressure should it find that he has some hypopneas or apneas. Essentially, it tries to keep his airway open, even if things change during his sleep. What might change? Well most people have more problems on their back than on their side. Also, most people have more apneas during REM sleep (when the body relaxes very deeply as the dreams occur). And any alcohol before bedtime can lead to more apneas (it is a muscle relaxant - including the muscles that help keep the airway open).

Anyway, hope that helps.

Thanks John. You are really helpful. From this webpage, i found out there are quite a number of brands that supplies CPAP machines. What are the most prestigious ones? Comparing Resmed and Respironics, which one is better?

[SkepticalOne]

Jocelyn,

It really depends on what his diagnosis was and what kind of numbers he got from his sleep test. I was put on a BiPAP for my first machine. It was very easy to be compliant from the beginning (once the mask issues were worked out). I am kind of partial to the BiPAP since it is easier to exhale against.

My original machine I just retired (it still works, but I got an M-Series BiPAP Auto) with nearly 26,000 hours on it, close to 9 years.

The biggest issue in my opinion is to find a machine that works well for you and a mask that you like. The first few weeks can be a challenge to get the best fit on a mask. I like the nasal prong masks personally (comfort lite II) , I have a friend that prefers the Mirage Quattro. I found that I don't open my mouth while sleeping (before I was diagnosed I would wake up in the morning my tongue dried and sometimes even cracked, I would also bite the edge of my tongue when starting awake).

I would definitely get a data capable machine that you can read the data should you wish.

[JohnBFisher]

... It really depends on what his diagnosis was and what kind of numbers he got from his sleep test. ...

I would definitely get a data capable machine that you can read the data should you wish. ...

Bingo. I've used both Respironics and ResMed. My current machine is a ResMed machine. I've used Respironics for the better part of 18 years and have been very pleased with their systems. They make fully data capable systems and provide Encore Viewer to allow you to read the data from their systems. So, I can highly recommend their units.

I recently switched to a ResMed unit. I am very pleased with the quality of construction. If they carry that over to most of their normal units (as appears to be the case from postings I read here), their CPAP or APAP units will also be great systems. But a note about ResMed, here in the USA, ResMed makes it harder to read the data from your system. In the USA they do not sell their ResScan software through the online retailers. However, your husbands Durable Medical Equipment suppliers (DME) might be willing to provide it. Mine did for me.

Frankly, most DMEs will only carry Respironics and/or ResMed. However, some carry a broader line. Many folks like the IntelliPAP units. And there are certainly others.

[Jocelyn]

Here is some data from his polysomnography report:
Apnea+Hyponea : 253 34.9/hr
longst apnea: 00:46.8
lowest SpO2: 77.0%
PLM Sequence: 0

What other information you need?
Based on the data, as i dun quite understand it, what machine do you think is best suited for him? ( Though doc suggested him to buy a CPAP.)

I m reading the comparison of APAP on this webpage, what shall i look out for choosing a best suited machine?
Hope with all your help, I can order the first machine for him ASAP...Thanks all!

[JohnBFisher]

Here is some data from his polysomnography report:
Apnea+Hyponea : 253 34.9/hr
longst apnea: 00:46.8
lowest SpO2: 77.0%
PLM Sequence: 0

What other information you need?
Based on the data, as i dun quite understand it, what machine do you think is best suited for him? ( Though doc suggested him to buy a CPAP.)

I m reading the comparison of APAP on this webpage, what shall i look out for choosing a best suited machine?
Hope with all your help, I can order the first machine for him ASAP...Thanks all!

Hmmm... Do you have insurance? If so, they should cover this under Durable Medical Equipment. Policies differ, but it should be covered at least in part.

His AHI (Apnea Hypopnea Index) at 34.9 (per hous) is just shy of the 35 per hour that is used for Severe OSA. The lowest SpO2 indicates he had a pretty severe drop in blood oxygen levels. And holding his breath for 47 seconds will do that. So, he definitely should try to get this under control. PLM (periodic limb movement) of zero means leg movements are not awakening him. That's good, since it means he only needs to fix the breathing issues.

If you have insurance, you will need to work with them to find a DME that can provide the machine in your area. For example, I have a PPO type policy, so I can only use DMEs on their approved list. If you will just buy the system on your own, then you have a lot more freedom of choice.

In either event, I would suggest getting back to the doctor and requesting a prescription for an APAP unit (since his AHI is moderate to severe). Tell the doctor that you've read that factors such as sleep position, sleep stage, alcohol consumption, stress at work, etc. can all increase the number of events. If so, an APAP unit will better meet his needs. Ask for the prescription to include a heated humidifer and mask as appropriate. You will need a prescription to purchase either the unit or a mask.

Hope that helps.

[Jocelyn]

Thanks for your clear explaination. We are in Singapore. I dun think our inssurance company will cover such expenses. Nevertheless, we still have to get one online ourselves as there are few CPAP distributers locally.

Btw, do you order your machines from this website only? I found out that the price varies from different websites and some are even cheaper. But not sure if they are reliable or not.

[JohnBFisher]

Thanks for your clear explaination. We are in Singapore. I dun think our inssurance company will cover such expenses. Nevertheless, we still have to get one online ourselves as there are few CPAP distributers locally.

Btw, do you order your machines from this website only? I found out that the price varies from different websites and some are even cheaper. But not sure if they are reliable or not.

Your biggest problem is that they may not be able to ship them to you in Singapore. You might be able to have them shipped to someone in the states, who could then forward it. You will need to contact each of the online retailers.

As to which online retailer to use, you will want to check reviews of the retailers. Some are very good. But cost is not always the only issue. I've been very pleased using CPAP.com. Long before there were other sites, I used cpapman.com. At one time he was the only one offering this online. You might also want ot check cpapauction.com since they often has new (or almost new) machines at a very reasonable price.

Like any other major purchase, check around and see what others think. Their experience probably will be similar to yours. And in that case, you want the best possible experience. You want someone that will stand behind their product. You want someone who will work with you. For example, you may need the option to return a mask for a new mask (different sizes). CPAP.com offers an insurance policy to allow you to return a mask.

Perhaps others will be able to provide some ideas on ordering equipment for delivery in another country.

[LinkC]

Yes, I agree that shipping to Singapore may be the biggest problem.

cpap.com does have a price matching policy. Call them in advance...or even after your purchase (within 30 days) and they'll meet legitimate lower prices. So price shouldn't be a concern.

Best of luck getting your husband set up!

[roster]

........Third, he will want a machine that includes "full data capabilities". In essence, he wants a machine he can remove a card from (now usually an SD card - like you use in a camera) and find out what the machine observed. Did he restricted airflow events (hypopneas) during the night? Did he have apneas during the night? This can help track the effectiveness of the therapy.
............

Jocelyn, Make sure you get this part right.

[Slinky]

... But a note about ResMed, here in the USA, ResMed makes it harder to read the data from your system. In the USA they do not sell their ResScan software through the online retailers. ...

I have to clarify this statement, JohnB. Resmed EXCELS in the ease of access to and amount of data available via the LCD screen. AND, if you want the Resmed software and cable reader, ask your family doctor or sleep doctor to write you a script for it and then you can buy it. Or you can buy it from Australia w/o a script.

[Patrick A]

Hi everyone! I am new here and new to CPAP.
My husband is only 27 years old but he has been suffering from SA for many years without realising it. Only after recently he underwent a sleeping test, then we know that he got serious Sleeping apnea.
As a fresh user, what are the things i should look out for our very first CPAP machine?
I would love to hear all your experience.
Thanks in advance!

Welcome! He's certainly not alone. I waited until my mid 30s before I agreed to a sleep study. Should have had one in my late 20s, based on all the symptoms. Glad your husband had it done fairly early. Managing the Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) helps avoid all sorts of health problems (high blood pressure, diabetes, weight gain, etc.). Plus he will regain a lot of energy and focus.

First, you want to find a DME that will work with you and your husband to help both of you understand your machine and how to live with it. That can be harder than you might think.

Second, he will want a machine that includes a humidifier. Most do these days, but it helps have the moist air, since the compressed air tends to dry out the airway.

Third, he will want a machine that includes "full data capabilities". In essence, he wants a machine he can remove a card from (now usually an SD card - like you use in a camera) and find out what the machine observed. Did he restricted airflow events (hypopneas) during the night? Did he have apneas during the night? This can help track the effectiveness of the therapy.




Fourth, if possible, he should ask for an APAP (Automatic CPAP) unit. This will automatically increase the pressure should it find that he has some hypopneas or apneas. Essentially, it tries to keep his airway open, even if things change during his sleep. What might change? Well most people have more problems on their back than on their side. Also, most people have more apneas during REM sleep (when the body relaxes very deeply as the dreams occur). And any alcohol before bedtime can lead to more apneas (it is a muscle relaxant - including the muscles that help keep the airway open).

Anyway, hope that helps.

I agree could not have said it any better.

[JohnBFisher]

... I have to clarify this statement, JohnB. Resmed EXCELS in the ease of access to and amount of data available via the LCD screen. AND, if you want the Resmed software and cable reader, ask your family doctor or sleep doctor to write you a script for it and then you can buy it. Or you can buy it from Australia w/o a script. ...

Good point, slinky. Thanks for helping clarify this for others. The actual data provided on the macine is excellent. The ability to download the data onto a computer and view it there takes more effort. However, once you obtain the software, it is as good as the Encore Viewer.