Quitethe1 Therapy Thread from CPAP to ASV

[Quitethe1]

        Last night was the worst ever.  I turned the ramp off to see if I could sleep without it and start at 8.  Got the immediate headache again.  Turned ramp back on.  I also switched out my mask and headgear 4 times.  It seems like all of them were leaking around the nose.  Then I get anxious because they were leaking, then I got the leak to stop, but then couldn't sleep because I was worried it would leak again.  Vicious cycle.  I think the masks the just go under the nose are out for me.  I am going to try a full face mask again or a nose mask.  I don't know because insurance won't cover it because they already sent me stuff I can't use now.

Any opinions on full face masks?  I hate the hose on the front, but I'm out of choices and time.  Thanks for listening.

[Sleeprider]

No changes on my part. ASV is where you need to be, now it's a matter of getting it approved. We have already tried every trick in the bag for CPAP. Talk to your doctor about your central apnea rate, and ask what his path to asv is.

[Quitethe1]

This is the portal email I got from my dr.  Just remember when you are reading this, my machine is 6-7 years old and only talks to the SD Card that is in it.  I told her that I was looking at my data and noticed quite a bit of CA's.

I am attaching the pics as they are HUGE screenshots.  The one with the blue line at the bottom is the beginning of the message.  Pretty much sounds like a copy and paste, pre-written for everyone response.

[Sleeprider]

ASV is fully automatic and treats both central and obstructive apnea. A titration test is not really required because Medicare and most insurance requires that you "fail" at cpap and bilevel, and can then try ASV. https://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.ph...P_Machines

[Quitethe1]

        Thank you for the like and information.

This is last nights.  It just gets worse.  I changed to the F30i with a new cushion.  I thought the seal was good and for some reason, I still taped my mouth.  I remember waking up and gasping for air, must have been when most of the CA's were happening.

This will be my last post of the Oscar data.  Nothing is continually working and I need an ASV.  Not only because you have given me so much education and insight, but because it is taking up room on your forum.  I will keep updating here once things get better.  I can't thank you enough!!! 

[Sleeprider]

We can afford to give you whatever space and time on the forum you require to help with your issues; however you're correct this only resolves with ASV therapy. What is your plan moving forward t make that happen? How can we help? If you plan to obtain a device out of pocket, there are a bunch on DotMed, but if you do, I recommend you do not use an unrated or offshore seller. We can also talk about how to approach your doctor or medical team for a prescription. Your need is self-evident and all you need is a prescription from your treating physician. Insurance will require that you demonstrate benefit with a follow-up visit to your doctor.

[Quitethe1]

Thank you so much. I sent my data to my dr. She hasn’t responded yet, not sure if she will. I just hope she sees that I need anything more than I have. I will look into that website. Thank you. It will be cheaper to buy one than going through the ins hoops. Once it’s programmed I will just get supplies through ins. I switched back to my Dreamwear under nose mask, from my F30i,  last night and my AHI on my machine was 8. So this is how I will go for now. I will see what happens with the in lab study and let you know.

[Sleeprider]

Even if you get an older machine with quite a few hours, a complete refurbishing with new motor and seals would cost $220 to $240 from Supplier #28. That results in a like-new ASV with zero hours. These machines typically get 22,000 to 25,000 hours before needing service, but it's good to know they can be renewed. Other members have used DotMed to source ASV and had a good experience. There are other resale markets like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp and Craigslist, but you have to negotiate and use safe payment methods, no cash or money orders.

[Quitethe1]

Wow!  Thanks for the research!  Would like to get one now, but will have to wait and see what they say. Do I need an rx for that site?

[TBrobbs]

I’m in a similar situation for needing an ASV and just purchased one this week from Supplier #2 on the supplier list. They’re not the cheapest for sure but they seem to have machines with low hours regularly and they have a 6-month warranty. Really pleasant to deal with, and no prescription required for international purchasers. I’m just waiting on delivery now.