Oscar review?

[JollyJoker]

I've been using CPAP for a little over a year now. Things are going well but I thought I'd ask about changing settings.

I had about 70 AHI in the initial test. I'm using a Resmed AirSense 11 with a nasal pillow mask (P30i?). I've been using a chin strap to reduce leaks. The original settings were 4-20 with no EPR. After checking with Oscar I noticed I often had a series of apneas at the start of the night before the pressure increased. I experimented with different pressures and EPR and settled on min 10 and later removed the EPR. I had a constant runny nose for a while until I realized the winter had dried out the air and I needed to fill the tank. I still have a little of it and tried lowering the min pressure to 8 to see if it changes anything. I'm not sure, but it does seem most of the night is spent above 10 regardless. I haven't paid much attention to the max pressure, but maybe I should.

I'm going to try mouth tape tonight. I'll probably set the minimum back to 10.

Suggestions?

           

[G. Szabo]

... and later removed the EPR.

EPR is usually beneficial. Why did you remove it?

[staceyburke]

Your numbers are great. We use EPR to lessen flow limits and make it easier to exhale Exhale Pressure Relief. 

I would suggest you turn on EPR to FULL TIME set to 3.

[JollyJoker]

I didn't notice much difference and read something about EPR possibly causing central apneas. I may have misunderstood something.

Here's a night with mouth taped. I didn't sleep very well, Fitbit shows only 24 mins deep sleep, 1h 17 min awake. Not a lot of leaks, among the lowest recently.

   

I might try a few more days with tape, I'll add EPR and raise the min back to 10 while I'm at it.

[Melman]

EPR may cause CA in some but is helpful for most without causing CA. I've used EPR at 3 for years and rarely see CA. The reduction in flow limitations should smooth out your pressure fluctuations.

[JollyJoker]

Nice to hear, thanks!