[Pressure] New CPAP user. Need some advice.

[streetwolf]

I used my CPAP pillow for the first time last night and I definitely had a more comfortable sleep.  My AHI hit a record low of 2.3 .  My mask tends to leak along my nose at the top and sides near the top.  I use a CPAP gel I found online which does seal the leaks but at some point during the night the leaks come back and it wakes me up.  Do you guys use anything to help with air leaks?  I've read that petroleum jelly shouldn't be used.  Some folks use A&D Ointment but that contains petroleum jelly.  

Btw...  here is a picture of my new CPAP pillow:

[kiwii]

Have you seen the Gecko Gel Pads?

A DME suggested them to me as a remedy when I was being fitted for various masks. Wound up buying one so that I could test masks with it on too (size Large, as they can be trimmed with scissors - so for me it was 2 for the price of one). Haven't needed to use it so far, but it is very comfortable and does seal leaks.

I am currently using the Rem Zzzzs mask liner. It is like a thin t-shirt material. Very comfortable and the material overhangs the cushion, so that any potential leaks towards my eyes would be blocked by the material (which is why I am using them). I don't know how they are on preventing leaks. My machine registers that I've had leaks, but I haven't been able to find them or be aware of them happening.

Btw, Rem Zzzzs are supposed to be disposable but they are easily hand washed and I've just been reusing them.

[streetwolf]

Quick question. I'm still playing around with my min/max auto settings. If I set the max to 20 will the 90% pressure result indicate I reached 20 even though I only needed say 18 to keep my airways open? in other words is setting max to 20 a good way of finding my precise max pressure.

btw... I started using Rem Zzzzs mask liners. Don't know if they stop air leaks but at least I don't feel any air hitting my eyes and no more CPAP mask farts. :-)

[streetwolf]

Has everybody here gone to sleep?  No response to my last post.

[Walla Walla]

Not sure what your asking. The max pressure can change day to day. But usually you set max pressure 2 cm above the max pressure you've observed used. That allows extra room just in case you need it.

[streetwolf]

Can I use the 90% pressure to determine either the min or max? Last night it was 16.6. AHI was 5.1. Auto pressures were 14.5/18.5. Auto has definitely lowered my AHI but I'm really at a loss getting the optimum value for the min/max that gets me the lowest AHI.

[Walla Walla]

Without a current chart I can't really tell you what your minimum should be. But if your high pressure was 16.6 adjusting the max pressure won't change anything. Did you try a cervical collar yet?

[streetwolf]

Without a current chart I can't really tell you what your minimum should be. But if your high pressure was 16.6 adjusting the max pressure won't change anything. Did you try a cervical collar yet?

I bought a CPAP pillow.  I thought that would be better than a cervical collar.  Was I wrong?  Here is my chart from last night.

[Walla Walla]

You could probably bump your minimum up to 15cm. I think the cervical collar could really help get rid of the clusters of events your getting. Unlike the pillow the Collar prevents your chin from tucking down and in which cuts off your air flow.

[streetwolf]

Should I get a run of the mill cervical collar or is there one for those with Sleep Apnea?