Purchasing CPAP for the first time, any suggestions?

Just found your site and find it encouraging to know there are experienced CPAP users to discuss problems. I have had my sleep studies, used the CPAP at the study for the first time. Will be purchasing one soon. I have already learned from your site about the gas insufflation. After the first use I experienced this and was unsure as to what caused it. I have a fused spine which makes things a little more difficult. I wish to travel in the future and want to purchase the best machine for this purpose and for my particular needs. Any suggestions, before I purchase?

A couple of good ones out there. I've only used Respironics and I'm happy enough with it.

If you've read many threads here you'll already know to get a fully data capable machine.

Get a machine that is fully data capable. You needed the sleep study to rule out a number of issues, but you were in a new environment with all kinds of attachments that you won't have in your own bed. Many users see that their pressure needs change in the home settings and you really can't see this unless you have the data.

I purchased mine from CPAP.com, consider that.

Fred

ask your doctor. Why trust what a bunch of strangers say?

Look! It's a Troll!

Guest wrote: Why trust what a bunch of strangers say?

Because,
we know the pain and fatigue,
we're strapp'n it on, everynight,
we're figure'n it out, everynight,
we're taking our lives back, everynight.

------because we use a cpap machine evey night! Does your doctor?????????? If s/he does ask him/her. If s/he doesn't ask us!!

I'm partial to the Resmeds. They are 1 lb lighter when packed for travel. Easier access to more data via the LCD screen. Attaching and detaching the integrated humidifier is easier.

I prefer ResMed Machine as well. My machine is very quiet, small, lightweight and the color fits the decor of my bedroom!!!!! Final opinion on my choice of machine, is my bed partners approval..........the kats agreed with sleeping with the quietness of my ResMed Auto Set II.

elg5cats

Guest wrote:ask your doctor. Why trust what a bunch of strangers say?

The name's the same, but you, Guest, are not nearly as cute. Run along, now.

Sleepless....

Many of us use the Respironics Auto "M" Series with AFLEX and an Integrated Humidifier. Software and a Card Reader is also available to go with this machine.

I suggest that you begin your search and analysis by using the above system as a "benchmark"....a starting place for comparison.

Personally, I like the Respironics products purchased from CPAP.com....but, others on this forum prefer different equipment.

Software is vital if one wants to manage therapy correctly......and you will end up managing your own care...if you want good results. A fully "data capable" machine is the only way to go.....and software that allows you to monitor your therapy is extremely important. A machine that only gives you "compliance data" is nearly useless from a therapy management standpoint. Purchase top of the line equipment....not the "cheap stuff".

If you begin your search with a set of specifications....like what I've listed above.....and learn which machines are comparable with each other, you'll make a wise choice. What you select will make a big difference in whether or not you're successful in managing your condition. Your probability of success goes way up if you have good equipment.

Gerald

I have a Fisher/Paykel HC 234 (I bought used from cpapauction), a Respironics M series Auto with C-flex and data (I bought used from cpapauction), and a Resmed S8 Compact (obtained through insurance from sleep center / DME before I knew better). I have found the Fisher/Paykel the easiest one to travel with (for myself) as it is the easiest to pour excess water from the humidifier chamber, packs easier (for me), and has a smaller footprint on a bedside table. I am a fireman with about 150 nights a year away from home, and I found the best combination for me was to actually get a decent machine with data for use at home (the Respironics one) and buy secondary ones for travel. Buying them (slightly) used on cpapauction, I got the Fisher/Paykel and the Respironics both for about what I paid with BCBS insurance for the Resmed one.

Sleepless in Hamilton,

You're in the right place for diverse input on machines. Doctors are trained in the condition of sleep apnea, and contrary to prior suggestion, can't possibly be versed in the variables of the many brands and features of machines. Hard part about so many personal preferences is sorting thru which might translate to most meaningful for you. Good luck with that!

Something else to consider is if any needs were revealed during your studies that could make a difference in machine selection. A very high pressure need, though usually treated just fine with a cpap or apap, sometimes is more comfortable on a bipap. Also, those with complex sleep disordered breathing or central apnea would want to consider those factors in their selection. Maybe none of this applies to you, just throwing it out there.

Best wishes in your decision making process. Once upon a time I was sleepless in a place called Hamilton, but that was only because I was young and had a night life. Wish that was my excuse now.

Kathy