Insufficient airflow?

Greetings all!

I have been on CPAP for several years, but I'm new to this site.
I did a search and couldn't find my question.

At times, I notice that my CPAP machine seems to have an insufficient amount of airflow.
When I breathe in quickly and deeply, my machine can't seem to keep up.
Is that normal?

The ultrafine filter was removed some time ago, and the foam filter wasn't that dirty when I just checked it.

Thanks!

have you ever either checked it with a manometer or had it check with one by a DME? If so was it producing the right airflow for your pressure? If not... probably should do that.

First of all, what is your prescription setting. If it's low (around 4cm) many people seem to have trouble breathing with that low a pressure. Otherwise, what cflame1 said.

You may need an adjustment to your rise time, the time the machine allows for an inhalation (Ti Max). It may be set for too long a time. That is unless you are on CPAP where the pressure is constant. I forgot to note what kind of machine you are using. I would talk to your tech or DME and explain your problem to them.
If indeed you are on a CPAP machine the only thing above that is true is that CPAP gives a constant pressure. Talk to your doc, DME, or tech, or give us more information about your machine.

Mary Z wrote:You may need an adjustment to your rise time, the time the machine allows for an inhalation (Ti Max). It may be set for too long a time.

His machine is a simple CPAP with no such adjustments.

Mikeydude, do you use ramp? If so, try not using it.

When you feel there's not enough air, open your mouth a little and see if air escapes from your mouth. Sometimes you get so used to the pressure that you don't feel it any more.

And what is your pressure?

Thanks for the replies.
My pressure is 11cm, and I don't use the ramp function.
I haven't checked the pressure yet.

What I noticed was that when I take a heavy breath, taking in air as quickly as possible, the mask pulls in to my face because of suction.
I didn't think it was normal, but I decided to ask here before I go to get the machine checked.

Relax, your machine isn't supposed to keep up with you breathing heavy while you are awake. It is supposed to keep your airway from collapsing while you are asleep.

[quote][/I forgot to note what kind of machine you are using. I would talk to your tech or DME and explain your problem to them.
If indeed you are on a CPAP machine the only thing above that is true is that CPAP gives a constant pressure. quote]
Archangle. Read the entire reply. Don't pick and choose what to respond to negativiely

Mary Z wrote:

[/I forgot to note what kind of machine you are using. I would talk to your tech or DME and explain your problem to them.
If indeed you are on a CPAP machine the only thing above that is true is that CPAP gives a constant pressure. quote]
Archangle. Read the entire reply. Don't pick and choose what to respond to negativiely

Oh, so I should ignore the fact that you couldn't be bothered to read his post, which is clearly labeled with what kind of machine he had. Then, you realized that you hadn't checked, but couldn't be bothered to go back and check. Then you give him incorrect and confusing info for the machine he has listed in his profile.

I'll keep that in mind the next time I see incorrect info here.

Lizistired wrote:Relax, your machine isn't supposed to keep up with you breathing heavy while you are awake. It is supposed to keep your airway from collapsing while you are asleep.

Thanks for the quick replies.
Liz, I knew that I wouldn't take in such a heavy , quick breath when I'm sleeping, but I didn't know what kind of airflow to expect.
I wasn't overly concerned, but I can relax now. Thank you.

Getting a manometer was a good suggestion, I think I'll look into that as well.
And if I have any further concerns, I will see my tech.

I appreciate all the replies. Thanks all!

Mikeydude wrote:

I have been on CPAP for several years, but I'm new to this site.

As soon as you are due a new machine, get one that has data functions and software. You can see what happened all throughout the night with your breathing and make adjustments the next night if necessary.

If the software shows the breathing is fine, then you gain peace of mind.

Forum members can recommend good machines and tell you how to get and use the software. Sometimes it is free and the good machines are often no more expensive than the "dumb" ones.

It seems most of the expert members here use a good data machine and software.

Good luck.