[Equipment] Leaky masks

[April]

I would be grateful for help interpreting the OSCAR charts.  Do I have a "leak" problem?  I got a new mask - Respironics Dreamwear Under Nose Nasal Mask.  The leak results look similar to previous masks. 

Technology is a struggle.  I hope I got this right.

Thank you in advance.

   
   

[multicast]

You don't have a leak problem. Your machine reports two leaks: the total leakage including the intended leak (upper green line) and mask leaks (lower line). And that second line looks marvellous.

[staceyburke]

All masks have leaks. They must get rid of C02 and are designed to do that and it showed as a leak 

You need to enter the type of mask you are using on your Cpap so the machine can determine if the leak is a large leak and needs to be controlled by adjustments or in getting a different mask. 

Once you have set the type you can add a leak line on your leak cart to help you determine if your leak is to large. To do that move your mouse to the left side if the leak chart (near the title in the left side) right click and choose “dotted line” and choose max leak? I’m not near my computer to see the exact wording. 

The line now in the chart is the largest amount of leak that your Cpap can handle.

[OpalRose]

As multicast states, you don't have a leak problem.

Your Respironics machine reports Total Leaks, which include both the intentional leak rate for your mask at your pressure AND the excess leaks.

In other words: Total Leak = Intentional Leak + Excess Leak

[April]

Thank you.  That is helpful. I will check it out.

[April]

Thanks for the tips.  I entered the mask type.  I have not been able to get the "line."  My AHI number fell after adding the mask info.  I do not know if that is related or coincidence.

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Thank you for explaining.  I could not figure out why there were two lines some of the time.  There is so much to reading these charts.  Helpful but confusing at first.

[April]

Thank you for your help.  I did not understand about "intentional" leaks.  Now I understand why there are exhaust holes in the masks.  Most of those annoy me because the air shoots back into my eyes. I use an eye mask now and then.

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Thank you.  I'm learning from people's responses.  I'm also reading the WiKi and Guide.  So much to read and learn.