RE: Have brand new CPAP but now think I made not need
(06-26-2016, 05:01 PM)vsheline Wrote: Hi cpap4uars,
When we first start using CPAP it often helps to use the max A-Flex (3). But after a couple weeks our breathing muscles will get stronger and we may not need as much exhalation pressure relief.
An A-Flex setting of 3 gives the max exhalation pressure relief, but during inhalation (which is when we have the Flow Limitations which can cause RERAs) the pressure also drops earlier if using an A-Flex of 3.
After the first couple weeks of CPAP use, if we have UARS it may be more comfortable to have the high inhalation pressure last longer, which it will do if we are using an A-Flex setting of 1.
ResMed EPR doesn't act the same; with ResMed the high inhalation pressure lasts until we start breathing out. But on Philips Respironics machines the high inhalation pressure starts dropping the earliest with max A-Flex, before we have completely finished inhaling, and starts dropping the latest with an A-Flex of 1 (not off).
Take care,
--- Vaughn
Thanks Vaughn,
All this information is very helpful. I'm impressed by how knowledgeable all the members here are! I am willing to bet a lot of you know wayyyyy more than the doctors do!
RE: Have brand new CPAP but now think I made not need
That was my experience. When I first started, exhaling against the pressure (insignificant now but brand new to me then) was a challenge. Flex helped my comfort and acclimatization. Three months later, I remembered to turn it off completely as I no longer needed it and wanted the pressure to be consistently high.
Don't be afraid to make the adjustments you need to get used to this therapy. Once it becomes normal and natural, you can focus on tuning the benefits.
RE: Have brand new CPAP but now think I made not need
(06-27-2016, 12:40 AM)chill Wrote: That was my experience. When I first started, exhaling against the pressure (insignificant now but brand new to me then) was a challenge. Flex helped my comfort and acclimatization. Three months later, I remembered to turn it off completely as I no longer needed it and wanted the pressure to be consistently high.
Don't be afraid to make the adjustments you need to get used to this therapy. Once it becomes normal and natural, you can focus on tuning the benefits.
Yep, the very first time I put it on (and the pressure was 4), I was like holy mackerel, that's a lot of pressure, and felt it pushing on my ears. Now, after using it a few times, that pressure is basically nothing.
RE: Have brand new CPAP but now think I made not need
Yep, give it time. Small, careful steps will help you reach your goal.
