[CPAP] Could use some help with OSCAR analysis/interpretation re: Airsense11 settings

[thesquimmgroup]

Hi all! 

I've been using an Airsense11 since May, but only a few weeks ago discovered I could insert an SD card to record detailed data for OSCAR viewing.

I am attaching two segments of recordings from 10/3. I think I've been able to glean a few things to adjust so far based on readings from the forum (very much appreciated), but I would be so grateful to hear what recommended setting adjustments jump out at any more experienced eyes. 

Happy to take alternate screenshots with different rows/views, and to answer any questions.

I really appreciate it!

Bill

[staceyburke]

A whole days screenshot with the left column is the best for most things.  If a closeup is needed of events we would ask for that.  From what I can see with your charts it looks like you have positional apnea.  They can be seen when there are grouped O and H events.  The closeup does show that.

Positional apnea can NOT be controlled by pressure changes.  You have to find out what position you are getting into and cutting off your own airway.  Have you changed your sleep position?  Sleeping on your back?  Using more (or new) pillows?  These things can cause positional apnea by chin dropping to your sternum and cutting your airway.  Think of it of a kinked hose – nothing can get through – you have to unkink the hose…

IF you can’t make a simple change like changing to a flatter pillow helps then you will need a collar.  I have a link to collars in my signature at the bottom of the page.  It shows people who are not wearing a collar and the SAME person wearing a collar.  There is a huge difference between the two.


If you would please post a full days charts so we can be of more help.

[thesquimmgroup]

Thank you very much indeed for your quick feedback!! I have not yet looked into those sorts of changes, but that's very helpful to know.

I am attaching a full-night screenshot per your request. Text cut off on the left column is as follows:

Ramp
Auto

Ramp Pressure
4 cmH2O

Response
Standard

Smart Start
On

Temperature
26 ºC

Temperature Enable
Auto

[Deborah K.]

It would help us help you if you arranged your chart differently.  We need to see the following, and only the following on the first page, in the order listed:

Event Flags
Flow Rate
Pressure
Leak Rate
Flow Limits

We need to be able to read to the very bottom of the Flow Limits.

[thesquimmgroup]

Understood! And, again, thank you so much for your willingness to help and communication!

I am attaching the requested screen capture here.

Bill

[Deborah K.]

You have an enormous amount of positional apnea.  Have you ordered a soft cervical collar yet?  You really do need one.

Your pressure settings are far too low.  Starting pressure 4 is for children.  Your median pressure is more than 8, so I suggest you set your low pressure at 8 and your high pressure at 15.  High pressure may need to be higher, but let's try 15 for now.

You also need to raise your EPR to 3.  Your flow limits are very high.

Try these settings and the soft cervical collar, and let us know how things go.  Until the positional apnea is under control, it's difficult to advise what to do next.  You may need a different type of machine, but let's see how things go first.

[thesquimmgroup]

Thank you! I have a cervical collar in the mail, but otherwise, your recommendations for pressure have lowered my AHI from 14 to 5 - a huge improvement.