Got an auto machine, is this a good machine?

It's a ResMed Auto Vantage. It's supposed to calculate my air pressure by computer. This is for temporary use. It's 2 months before I can have an actual sleep test with a CPAP so my PCP ordered this automatic machine to use since it's better than nothing. I just got home with it. The technician said the results won't be as good with the auto machine but I am hoping for some amount of relief. I got a ResMed Ultra Mirage II mask. When I tried it on it felt reasonably comfortable. I hope I feel rested enough after using it tonight that I won't need to take caffeine pills to make it through work tomorrow. Wish me luck!

unclematt wrote:It's a ResMed Auto Vantage. The technician said the results won't be as good with the auto machine but I am hoping for some amount of relief.

Wish me luck!

unclematt, it's not about luck....it's about education and perseverance.

Yes, the auto will not give you good results if it is setup by an ignorant technician.
It will give you much better results, IF you get educated and set it up, correctly.

I will wager you right now, that the Auto Vantage is going to be a much better machine,
than the one they will push on you after your study. Just a SWAG.

There are many educated people to help you get that machine setup so you
can get some amount of relief.....soon.

.....and in two months when you do go for your sleep study,
you will be able to dazzle them w/your cpap knowledge.....

.....and get the proper equipment, for your new life.

I have a lot to learn. Hopefully I will have the knowledge to make them give me a good permanent machine.

unclematt wrote:I have a lot to learn.

You do. PLEASE, just ask.

I'm not a Resmed user, yet, so I can't help you.

Hello and welcome. I originally had a cpap that was not set up effectively for me. I bought a used auto machine like yours from a forum member and it was the beginning of getting my treatment to work for me. Although I got the software with mine, for the time you are using this, you can get some data off of the screen every morning that will help guide you in the right direction. It's been a while since I used that machine so I'm rusty on the instructions. I'm sure someone will come along and give you the technical information.

Often these machines are given out set for a pressure range of 4 to 20. With those settings, yes, it likely will be less effective than a machine set at an accurately titrated pressure. One suggestion, don't leave the lower pressure of the range at 4. I'd probably want to start it at about 6 for several days and see how high the pressure goes to addess your needs. Once you see how high it goes, the bottom number can be raised to just a few below that. The reason for not leaving it at a real low starting pressure is that the pressure raises when needed in increments over set periods of time, and if it has to climb a long way to be effective, it can take a while. The flip side of that is not starting higher than necessary without knowing there's a need. Higher pressures can mean more leaks and potential for other problems. Using a machine just like yours got me hooked on data. Whatever machine you choose for a keeper, you will have decided by then how much having data means to you.

During this 2 months you can gain a lot of useful information. Once you settle in and get used to the equipment, it wouldn't hurt for you to spend a few nights forced to stay off your back, and see if your pressure needs are any lower. Some on here have such a significant difference in pressure needs between side sleeping and supine that they find it worthwhile to take measures to assure side sleeping, this allowing them to stay at lower pressure.

Many who have had to start their treatment without the benefit of data would be envious of your position. Also those who have suffered long waits in the process of diagnosis, titration, and getting equipment without the option you've been given. What this can't tell you is if any oxygen desaturations are resolved. Maybe a few weeks in your doc would also order an overnight recording oximeter. Enjoy working toward feeling better.

Kathy

yes this is a good machine. And I applaud your sleep dr for placing you on this until you can get into sleep lab. Laura RRt

Synergy Resp Care wrote:yes this is a good machine. And I applaud your sleep dr for placing you on this until you can get into sleep lab. Laura RRt

Ditto.
Good machine, wise doctor.


Welcome, Laura.

O.