New to autopap (and this forum)

eblack · Post by **eblack** » Thu Mar 03, 2005 5:53 pm

Hello to all,

I have used cpap for 7 years (17cm/h2o) and I am now into my first week of autopap. I was provided a Resmed AutoSet Spirit with my favorite mask, the Activa. I have a new doctor and DME, and they both seem to be rather cooperative. If there is any bottleneck in the process, it is my insurance company, Empire. The DME was happy to give me the clinician setup guide, and the doctor discussed the ins and outs of the settings. I understand that there is a "Clinical Manual(product code 30846)" available, if someone knows where I can order one, I would appreciate it. I should also have the AutoScan software shortly. As well as I felt I was doing on cpap, I am doing even better with the apap. Much more restful sleep, and lots of interesting dreams.

Since there seems to be so many knowledgable and experienced people here, I have a few questions that I have never been able to get a straight answer to.

The vents on the masks that bleed off exhaled CO2 must bleed air at a certain rate and that rate must change with different pressures. Is there a standard rate for all masks or are all masks different, or are there several "standards" and all masks fit into one of them?

I have read about the hoses coming in 2 meter and 3 meter lengths, and my machine has a setting that gives the choice. For ease of use I have always used a 3 meter and a 2 meter hose connected together. Does this matter? And if so, why?

There are actually more questions, but this is getting too long already. I appreciate any answers. Thanks!

chrisp · Post by **chrisp** » Thu Mar 03, 2005 7:24 pm

The Resmed Spirit has settings for different types of masks. All Resmed of coure. What mask are you using? The Resmed masks are very good and work well with the Spirit.

Settings are. Mirage, Ultra Mirage , Full face.

If the mask fit feature shows excessive leaks you might try changing the mask setting.

Cheers,

Chris

wading thru the muck! · Post by **wading thru the muck!** » Thu Mar 03, 2005 8:55 pm

eblack,

Sounds like you have a great DME and Doc. The auto machine monitors leaks, whether they are planned (vent holes) or not (mask or mouth leaks) and compensates for them. The masks are designed to clear sufficient co2 at the full range of pressures. You will probably want to set the minimum pressure at 6cm and not the 4cm the machine allows. This will provide a more comfortable amount of air. Considering you are used to a high pressure already you may want to start out with this low number a little higher till you can get used to a lower pressure. All this can be done with an auto to tailor you treatment to what is comfortable. You should see a great improvemnt in comfort with the auto.

Good Luck!