Can a BiPAP Machine Function Like an APAP Machine?

Moogy · Post by **Moogy** » Thu May 11, 2006 5:23 pm

Anonymous wrote:Moogy,

Another question since you actually have the BiPAP and the experience with it's operation.

Can you use the "Ramp" feature in the AUTO mode ?

The Remstar Auto cannot use the ramp in the Auto setting, so I was wondering if is the same with the BiPAP ???

Thanks, Tim

Yes, I use the Ramp in Auto Mode every night! I also use the BiFlex every night.

Moogy

pratzert · Post by **pratzert** » Thu May 11, 2006 7:07 pm

Moogy,

Thanks for the reply.

I'm sorry, I didn't mean to get nosy, I am just trying to figure out how many people got a BiPAP machine instead of an APAP and why?

Trying to get a feel for how many got it just to be covered in the future for ALL treatment possibilities.

I'm hoping it will help me decide if I want an APAP or push for a BiPAP.

It's out of pocket, and it's double the cost for a BiPAP. If I think I "NEED" it, I'll buy it, but I don't want to get it and pay double if I won't get a big difference in therapy.

I was titrated at 10CM. Doctor prescribed a Remstar Auto w/c-flex and heated Humidifier.

Tim

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu May 11, 2006 7:10 pm

A pressure of 10 is pretty comfortable; not high at all. I think a bi-level would be an unnecessary expense.

Moogy · Post by **Moogy** » Thu May 11, 2006 9:42 pm

To give you some perspective, I start my ramp at 10 and go up from there, often hitting 20 sometime during the night, even though I was titrated at 15. With a titration of 10 cm, I think you will be fine with an APAP instead of a BiPAP. Just be sure to get CFLEX for comfort.

Remember, too, that these machines don't last forever. It might be YEARS or even NEVER, before you need a BiPAP. My opinion, take it or leave it.

Regards,
Moogy

pratzert · Post by **pratzert** » Fri May 12, 2006 6:29 am

Moogy,

I'll certainly "TAKE" your opinion. Thanks to everyone for all the responses and information.

I have decided that it probably would be an unneeded expense to go for the BiPAP machine since my pressure is not real high ( 10cm ).

So I'm going to go ahead and order the RemStar Auto w/C-Flex and Heated Humidifier. I am also going to get the Mirage Activa Nasal Mask based on all of the reviews / opinions here on the forum.

I'm going to order thru cpap.com and try to put in for reimbursement with my insurance company (CIGNA) as an "Out of Network" purchase.

It will cost me out of pocket, but I just cannot stand talking to the goofballs at Apria any more.

What do you all suggest I set my Pressure range to when I get it based on the straight CPAP pressure my Doc prescribed of just 10cm ?

Do you think it best to set the machine up initially as a straight CPAP at 10cm (With C-Flex), or should I set it up as an Auto with a range of maybe 8-12 ?

Thanks again for all the help.

Tim

rested gal · Post by **rested gal** » Fri May 12, 2006 6:53 am

Hi Tim,

I'm no doctor, but I think the range you have in mind ( 8 - 12) would be a very good range of pressure to set your autopap for. Mode of operation: AFLE (auto with C-Flex.)

I'd put the C-Flex at "2". You can play around with all three C-Flex settings as well as turning C-Flex off, to see what's most comfortable for you. The least drop in exhale pressure with C-Flex is "1". The most drop is "3". To turn C-Flex off, set the mode of operation to APAP (auto without C-Flex.)

When you get to the menu item about "ramp time", it should be set at 0:00. Be sure NOT to try to set a ramp time when using APAP or AFLE mode with the REMstar Auto...it must be on all zeros or the machine will not operate in true auto mode for several hours each time you use it.

When you check your data with the Encore Pro software, you'll be able to see if you ever hit 12 at all. If you do, you might want to change the range to 8 - 14. I like to have a bit of ceiling up there that never gets touched, for "just in case".

You're getting an excellent machine and very good mask (the Activa) for your first equipment. Good job!

pratzert · Post by **pratzert** » Fri May 12, 2006 7:12 am

rested gal,

Thank you for your experienced "suggestions".

I plan to set up my Remstar Auto just the way you suggested.

Sounds like an excellent starting point for therapy. I'm looking forward to reading all the Data from the software.

But what I'm REALLY looking forward to, is a good nights sleep !

Tim

LittleRedTruck · Post by **LittleRedTruck** » Fri May 12, 2006 12:23 pm

Hi,,,,,just wondering if MyEncore works ok with Bipap auto ????? Thanks ! Dan

NightHawkeye · Post by **NightHawkeye** » Fri May 12, 2006 12:30 pm

LittleRedTruck wrote:Hi,,,,,just wondering if MyEncore works ok with Bipap auto ?????

Sure does. Works great with the BiPAP-auto.

Regards,
Bill