[Diagnosis] New forum member, have been on CPAP for a month. Just started using OSCAR

[Irate Frogger]

Hello, I'm new here. 

I've been using my CPAP machine for about a month. I've been using ResMed's app myair to check my results of every nights sleep. I then read here on the forums of the program OSCAR. Last night was my first night I recorded with the SD card, I would appreciate if you guys can help me interpret the info

First thing I noticed is from about 5am my mask was leaking lots of air and that is when I started experiencing apneas. (I know, I know, I only slept 4-5 hours; I had to do something for work. Normally I sleep 7-8). 

Looks like from my entire time sleeping, I was in apnea for about 2 minutes. Not perfect but I don't think that's too bad. When I had my sleep study done, I had a mild sleep apnea at an average of 7 an hour

I need to figure out why my mask started to leak air so much around 5am. I suspect the hose is getting caught on my pillow or something

Any help is appreciated. Thanks

By the way, how can I add a custom avatar? I'm not given the option

[OpalRose]

Welcome to the Forum!
You can post some data from the daily page of OSCAR. Include the leak rate graph. This way we can usually tell if you are mouth breathing or your mask is leaking. Follow the links in my signature line for guidance.

New members can select any of our existing avatars, but can't upload a custom avatar until you have transitioned into the regular members group (4 posts, and then a few hours must past by).
Once you transition into the Members group, you should have the ability to upload a custom avatar.

[Irate Frogger]

Oh, I thought I did upload the screenshot. Hopefully this time it does appear. Thanks

Edit: Yup, here's the screenshot.

[Sleeprider]

I'd be willing to bet your cluster of apnea was a positional issue of chin-tucking. It's really common, and in your case not too bad. Most of the night (albeit short) was very good therapy with nearly no events or flow limitation. I don't think you need to change any settings, but you should read the positional apnea wiki and think about whether this happens when you're on your side or back. http://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.php...onal_Apnea

Welcome to the forum.

[Irate Frogger]

I'd be willing to bet your cluster of apnea was a positional issue of chin-tucking.  It's really common, and in your case not too bad.  Most of the night (albeit short) was very good therapy with nearly no events or flow limitation.  I don't think you need to change any settings, but you should read the positional apnea wiki and think about whether this happens when you're on your side or back.   
Welcome to the forum.

Wow, I followed what the link said. I sat down and relaxed and placed my chin on my chest. As I breathed in I did start to 'snore'. I usually sleep on my back but I do occasionally sleep on my back. When I had my sleep study done, my doc told me most of the apneas occurred when I slept on my back. I will be looking into those collars. 

Thanks, I knew joining these forums would be helpful. (I had to delete your link from your quote to be able to post my reply)

[Sleeprider]

In your case, even in your sleep, you had the good sense to move. As you can see in the Wiki not everyone shares that good sense. The purpose of my post was just to make you aware of it.

[whiteoak]

I may have a similar situation, or perhaps something more serious, I don't know.  I've been on therapy for less than 2 months and have started using Oscar a couple of weeks ago.  I find the Oscar charts fascinating and certainly insightful as to what goes on during the night.  A typical night for me is fairly uneventful with AHI numbers from less than 1 to around 3.  This morning I was freaked out to look at the charts, and after reading this post, I wonder about positional Apnea being a possible explanation......or I've got some intermittent serious issues going on. 
I will attach 2 screen shot (one detail) from last night, and then another screenshot of what would be a "typical" night.
Any thoughts are most appreciated.

[Gideon]

Welcom to the forum.

19 July, significant chin tucking/positional apnea.
17 July some chin tucking, mostly with hypopneas I wouldn't worry about this if it isn't persistent.

Both nights your flow limits are higher than I would like. Try EPR = 2 since 17 July numbers were definately good.
How often do you see nights like 19 July? If often you need a Soft Cervical collar to prevent your chin from tucking

[whiteoak]

Thank you for your reply Bonjour.  I have seen these series.....groups of apneas ,and breathing patterns on occasion.....like once a week maybe.... and wondered what was going on.  Upon refection, I do believe these are generally when I am in the supine position, and I could very well be tucking my chin down.  I'll order a collar and give it a try.  I'll set the EPR at 2.  I need to read more about what this setting is for.  Thank you for moderating this forum.  I have learned so much about......so much!

[Gideon]

EPR is officially a comfort feature. BUT we use it to act as Pressure Support (PS) on a BiLevel device. We are limited to values of 0,1,2,3 whereas a BiLevel can use fractional values and much higher values.

EPAP, Exhale pressure is what manages Obstructive Apnea, and somewhat also for other Obstructive events.
The difference between EPAP and IPAP, Inhale pressure is called PS or Pressure Support. This differrence is what best treats Flow Limits, RERAs, Hypopneas, UARS, and even snores. I am taking advantage of this capability to help reduce your Flow Limits. You can think of Flow Limits as part of a contimium,
Normal Breathing
Flow Limits
Hypopnea
Apnea