A-pap settings and bloating

After starting on CPAP therapy a couple of months ago, I've just gotten a Respironics w/ A-flex - I got it because of the problem of feeling like I couldn't breath out. I was just about used to it when the new machine came. My sleep doctor says I can set it myself, and doesn't offer that service, and since I got it online, there are no dealers who will set it. I've found out how online - a simple thing, except for one thing.
I don't know if the prescribed setting should be the maximum pressure or the minimum pressure - or somewhere in the middle, for that matter. Does anyone know?
In trying to find out the setup instructions, I happened upon discussions on this site about gas and bloating, etc. and - well, whatdayaknow - here I am seeing my gastroenterologist tomorrow for a follow-up after having a light put down my stomach because of the symptoms of pain below my stomach and massive bloating and gas that started when I started the CPAP therapy. Sheesh. Well, at least maybe I'll be able to get out of the lower GI that he was planning next since the last test didn't show anything. I have GERD and a hiatal hernia and am on Prilosec 40 mg a day - have been for years. I really don't need more gas. On top of that I have connective tissue disorder and really shouldn't be getting bloated because it can cause permanent damage to my already deformed intestines that are prone to kinking. So I really need some good advice on how I should set my machine and anything that might relieve the bloating.

For a new apap user, I would set the machine like this;
minimum pressure 1 or 2 points below titrated pressure, lower than that and all events may not get treated.
Maximum pressure 2 points above titrated pressure. This will make sure you don't get runaway pressures causing more aerophasia.

You should look into getting the software and card reader so you can be in control of your treatment.

Brenda

Thanks! That's exactly what I did last night out of sheer logic. I'm not quite as bloated this morning and I slept very well. The A-flex really does make breathing easier. Now to figure out how to understand what I'm really getting as far as the treatment. I'm going to do a new post for new questions. Like, what does AHI stand for and what does it mean? And how are you supposed to know what your averages mean if you have a used machine and the guy before you has their 26.5 hours averaging in with your measly 12?

AHI is apnea/hypopnia index. The average number of apneas and hypopnias per hour. the goal is to have under 5. Most of us get under 5 many get even lower. The best way to tell how you're doing is to get the software and card reader. I'm not sure how to zero out your machine, but someone should pop in shortly to let you know how it's done.

Brenda

Hi joylk1,

First, welcome to the Forum and let me encourage you to fill out your profile completely. It will let us know when you joined, what type of CPAP machine and mask you are using and any other pertinent info you may want to put in the "comments" section (ie, your titration pressure). That way we on the forum will be help you better when you ask questions or want our input.

I am only about a month on the forum myself . . . and I found that by reading "New Users" and "Our Wisdom" at the top of the screen you will be off to a great start. Then, you can read much of what has already been written on a particular topic . . . by entering your KEYWORD(S) in the "Search" at the upper left.

There are MANY ANSWERS for you that are already in place . . . you just have to spend time searching and reading. That's how I got up to speed at first. I know it will help you as well. Good luck! This is a GREAT forum . . . so glad you found it.

Joy