Trying Bipap Masks On

I read an old post where someone said she was going to go "to a new dme to try a bunch of masks on, so I will take the bipap with me". That would be an answer to my prayers. Over the years, my husband has been supplied (through the mail) a few masks by his BIPAP supplies provider, but none really works. He has a worsening situation where are intervals still where he stops breathing, then gasps for air. Can any of you tell me how to find a "DME" that does allow you to try on masks - or maybe recommend one in the metro Los Angeles area?

Thank you for your help.
Trish

Trish,

You are going to have to find a local DME that takes your insurance plan, get with your insurance company and get a list of all the DME's in your area... That is when the work begins... Go into each DME and tell them your situation and start asking questions...

What is your mask policy? Do you have a 30 day mask program? How many masks can we try? 2, 5, 10???

if they treat you bad or dont help you, leave and go to the next 1 untill you find 1 that will help you... They work for you!!!

there are some helpful things to do:
1. Get a copy of your sleep study and your sleep titration study. They have interesting information that will help in understanding your own therapy

2. Get a copy of your prescription for your own records. It will be necessary if you choose to change DME's or order online

3. Post your equipment. There is a link on how to do this in my signature block below. Please select TEXT as a display choice as many CPAP machines and masks appear similar but are significantly different

4. If you need to post images of your reports, there is a link in my signature block on how to post using PhotoBucket.com

5. While the LCD display is somewhat useful, it is better to use one of the reporting software programs to get detailed information on your therapy. The two available for Respironics machines are: Encore (Basic or Pro) and SleepyHead. 

The advice on finding a new DME is spot on. You have to keep going until you find one that will work with you.

Once you have the equipment, then you will be able to get better answers about masks.

pmconway wrote:He has a worsening situation where are intervals still where he stops breathing, then gasps for air. Can any of you tell me how to find a "DME" that does allow you to try on masks - or maybe recommend one in the metro Los Angeles area?

I am not familiar with "BiPap Masks", but wouldn't his issue be more related to his pressure settings, and not the mask? Or perhaps ASV is needed? Perhaps contact the sleep doc.

The reference to BiPap was intended to indicate taking his CPAP machine to the DME in hopes of getting a better fitting mask. I don't think it was a reference to a "BiPap Mask" per se.

Agreed, could you clarify what the specific issues are? What you mention about continuing apnea events and gasping sounds more like an issue with the machine setting (or machine type), rather than the mask, although there may be a mask fit issue in addition to the setting/machine issue. You say it is worsening...some people do find they need their settings changed over time. At one time was the apnea under control (typically considered an AHI of under 5)? So sorry he has had to deal with DME supplies by mail only. I hope you are able to find a local DME which takes your insurance. But it sounds like you also need to check his data and get him back to his doctor. Best wishes.

Thank you so much to all who replied. You gave me an incredible wealth of really helpful information; and I know I'll be much better prepared going forward. I really appreciate your help.

Thank you!
Trish