new mask

I was fitted with a new mask which is the Small Comfort Gell Blue mask this afternoon by the respiratory therapist from my DME.

I am looking forward to using this new mask tonight. Any suggestions on what I should look out for?

The only one item I don't like, I will not be able to read since the clear tube go across my forehead.


Also, I asked my local DME in regards to downloading my software, they said I would need a reader but also they say only the physician or DME can download the information???

FLK,
I noticed nobody responded to your question. I have a ComfortGel Blue though I alternate with a Quattro to minimize skin and pressure related problems.

The Gel portion is supposed to be customizable by boiling the mask, cooling it a bit and the strapping it on your face. The instructions are very specific and must be followed carefully. Check the pamphlet or CD that came with the mask. Actually I don't recommend that. It's very hard to get the mask on with uniform pressure. I ended up with a squashed and lop-sided gel section (though it can be repeated). Just use it as is,...if at all possible.

As to the software, I don't know much about ResMed machines and the software. I think the S8 uses a smartcard that requires a special reader. The software is available. Of course your DME said not to. That seems to be the standard answer. But as the mantra goes...it's your body, your treatment and your data. You should be able to access it. So just ignore what was told to you and take the steps to get data capable. Pugsy is the go-to person on software, though she's more of a Respironics gal. She can head you in the right direction.
Good luck,
Jamis

freeloveknitter wrote:
Also, I asked my local DME in regards to downloading my software, they said I would need a reader but also they say only the physician or DME can download the information???

That is a bad DME still trying to keep patients in the dark about this aspect.

Of course you can download the information and review it via the software.
You will need the card that came with the machine, the software and a reader.
I'm not sure where you can obtain the software these days since it was back
in 2008 when I obtained my copy.

Thanks for the response,

I did pretty well with the new mask. You are right, the mask is a little more snug than my nasal pillows but I slept well.

I only took off the mask once during the night. I did not have any more "weird" dreams which I was glad about.

Thanks for the advice and I will be sure to contact Pugsy, because you are right, I need to know how I am doing since my next doctor appointment is not until Feb.


quote="jamiswolf"]FLK,
I noticed nobody responded to your question. I have a ComfortGel Blue though I alternate with a Quattro to minimize skin and pressure related problems.

The Gel portion is supposed to be customizable by boiling the mask, cooling it a bit and the strapping it on your face. The instructions are very specific and must be followed carefully. Check the pamphlet or CD that came with the mask. Actually I don't recommend that. It's very hard to get the mask on with uniform pressure. I ended up with a squashed and lop-sided gel section (though it can be repeated). Just use it as is,...if at all possible.

As to the software, I don't know much about ResMed machines and the software. I think the S8 uses a smartcard that requires a special reader. The software is available. Of course your DME said not to. That seems to be the standard answer. But as the mantra goes...it's your body, your treatment and your data. You should be able to access it. So just ignore what was told to you and take the steps to get data capable. Pugsy is the go-to person on software, though she's more of a Respironics gal. She can head you in the right direction.
Good luck,
Jamis[/quote]

I know,I was surprise that my DME told me I could not get the software.

Thanks

Paul56 wrote:

freeloveknitter wrote:
Also, I asked my local DME in regards to downloading my software, they said I would need a reader but also they say only the physician or DME can download the information???

That is a bad DME still trying to keep patients in the dark about this aspect.

Of course you can download the information and review it via the software.
You will need the card that came with the machine, the software and a reader.
I'm not sure where you can obtain the software these days since it was back
in 2008 when I obtained my copy.