Doable? [Should I try to self titrate?]

[krowan1963]

We are somewhat familiar with CPAP. After brain surgery & radiation, my husband is using one & somewhat in love with his unit.
Unfortunately, we are years away from covering our medical debt for his care and adding to the pile of debt is not my A-Plan.
I recently went for much overdue checkups. My PCP ordered blood labs and a sleep study. I was able to set up a payment plan for the sleep study but was not able to do the same for labs so I had to delay those until my sleep study is paid for (6 months). 
The sleep study group wanted me back for an additional in-Lon study but BCBS denied & ordered an APAP at home. BOTH companies require a hefty down payment to get the machine that will then titration my settings (not done at sleep study). I just cannot afford it until I get the sleep study paid off.
I saw a machine on eBay but, without knowing the titration numbers, can I figure out where to set it? Is it dangerous to try this myself? Is it doable? (My husband’s unit is titration remotely) 
I realize this is not a spectacular choice, but if I want something before next winter.
I look forward to hearing from everyone

[Walla Walla]

Before you buy a machine on your own I'd get a copy of your sleep study and post it here. People here can advise you if makes sense to buy a CPAP or not based on your tests. Different types of sleep apnea require different types of machines. You don't want to waste your money on the wrong machine.

[kiwii]

...but, without knowing the titration numbers, can I figure out where to set it? Is it dangerous to try this myself? Is it doable? (My husband’s unit is titration remotely)

If you look at Walla Walla's signature, there are some links about SleepyHead software.

Without going into too much detail (first follow his advice about posting your results), having an SD card in your machine allows the capture of detailed data. This card can then be used with Sleepyhead to view that data on your computer. If you upload screenshots here, there are people knowledgeable in reading the data and can help guide you in setting up your machine.

It is very doable.

You do want to be careful about which machine you purchase. Having one that has data-recording is best. I'm sure someone will be along to advise on that - meanwhile there is a link to the wiki at the top of each page.

[JesseLee]

Before you buy a machine on your own I'd get a copy of your sleep study and post it here. People here can advise you if makes sense to buy a CPAP or not based on your tests. Different types of sleep apnea require different types of machines. You don't want to waste your money on the wrong machine.

Krowan1963, there are generally 3 types of machines and each of which will perform differently. Without a sleep study or prior usage, it will be difficult to determine which machine that will give therpeutic advantage, that is limit all types of apnea that you may experience. 
I think it is feasible that you obtain a machine (borrow) and get some basic information that could help. If you check Craigslist, there is sometimes very low cost machines. I suggest looking there. If you put an ad on Craiglist in the free section, and put in the ad that you are in search of a CPAP machine for free, you might get a response as well.

Welcome to Apnea Board!

[booksfan]

Let me preface this by saying that I am a newbie. But I think the knowledgeable folks here can absolutely help you figure out how to set your machine. The combined knowledge base here is phenomenal!

However, as Walla Walla said, step one would be posted the results of your sleep study. That way the very first thing they help you figure out is the correct machine to get. There are too many choices out there and sometimes the differences are difficult to determine. Since your resources are limited, you want to be sure you get the right one first time!

Good luck!

[Gideon]

Whatever you choose to do, do not buy an APAP machine without checking here first. There are many considerations when purchasing "off the grid" such as machine capabilities and total run hours (Not therapy hours which is reset-able)

Choices and advice are best made with data. As mentioned above please attach a copy of you sleep study here.
(Many find "better" advice here than with their medical team for apnea)

Fred

[trish6hundred]

Hi krowan1963,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
Hang in there for more responses to your post and good luck to you.