Anyone on a fixed 20cms CPAP?

[katestyles]

So is the answer to my initial question, "Anyone on a fixed 20cms CPAP", essentially "NO"?

[Gideon]

VERY few people would be on Fixed 20,
As I said earlier I was on Fixed 19 for years.

[mesenteria]

I have been reading here for about 16 months and have yet to see/recall a person stating that they were using a maxed-out machine that they claimed was suitable for their needs, even '...for now'.  Certainly not a fixed pressure.  

Between the large leaks and frequent arousals/awakenings that you and your machine depict, you simply aren't getting the quality of sleep that you need.  More pressure behind a mask that leaks for some reason isn't going to solve your problem any more than attempting to turn the taps up on a bathtub whose drain is unplugged will.  You need to figure out what the leaks are, when/why they happen, and then take determined and productive steps to deal with them.

[katestyles]

I have been reading here for about 16 months and have yet to see/recall a person stating that they were using a maxed-out machine that they claimed was suitable for their needs, even '...for now'.  Certainly not a fixed pressure.  

Between the large leaks and frequent arousals/awakenings that you and your machine depict, you simply aren't getting the quality of sleep that you need.  More pressure behind a mask that leaks for some reason isn't going to solve your problem any more than attempting to turn the taps up on a bathtub whose drain is unplugged will.  You need to figure out what the leaks are, when/why they happen, and then take determined and productive steps to deal with them.

Thank you, yes. I agree that my machine is not meeting my needs.  However, I do not have a prescription for a bilevel machine. Any suggestions?

The leaks are happening when the pressure inside the lungs-sinus-mask-machine combination is stronger than the adhesive tape I use to hold the mask and mouth taping to my skin.
I have changed the tape I use to one with stronger adhesive.  I have used progressively stronger liquids to prepare my skin for the adhesives.

I am very determined.  But I am not productive, because no-one seems to have any further steps to suggest.

And yes, I am rather frustrated.

[ajack]

You may need to change doctors. An ENT would also be worth seeing. I think everyone agrees, cpap at 20cm may not be the answer for anyone.

[Sleeprider]

I'll add harmony to the chorus telling you the doctor is wrong. There are many ways you could be more comfortable and treated with more effectiveness. High pressure with pressure support is much more comfortable than fixed CPAP pressure. Your doctor is lazy or recalcitrant not to listen to your complaints of discomfort and intuitively acknowledge the need for bilevel when pressure reach this high threshold. I really don't get it. Time to shop docs and ditch the duck. (quack)

[katestyles]

I have sent a message to the sleep doc to plead my case again.

I am not sure how easy it will be to change doctors.  My PCP (who I love) is tied into our local teaching hospital.

[jaswilliams]

Your PCP could if willing write you a relevant prescription

[katestyles]

Your PCP could if willing write you a relevant prescription

Really?  I have an appointment with her in a couple of weeks about something different.....

[Gideon]

Mine isn't. Feels she doesn't know enough and as such may threaten her license.