Simulate sleep test?

[DakCalMol]

    I am new to forum.  The original sleep test that resulted in CPAP usage was many years ago.  Using my CPAP, I was trying to reduce the settings to make it as "invisible" as possible to see what my AHI etc might be without CPAP.  Attached are my settings and results.  I am not sure I got the settings in the least operational position.  Can someone advise if my idea worked or if  should have used other settings.  Thank you.

[pholynyk]

Given the way the pressure bounces all over, it's clear you need the bilevel...

But to carry out your experiment, you'll want to set the PS to 0 and min EPR to 4 - as you've done; but you also need to set the max IPAP to 4. That will give you the minimum pressure the vAuto can do all night. It's not the same as no pressure, but it might give you an idea.

Happy experimenting!

[DakCalMol]

Thank you for reply.  I was targeting the low AHI level as THE criteria for CPAP need.  But your input re: pressure being "all over" is new to me as well as the fact that the pressure has wide swings even though the AHI's are low shows I need the bi-level.... if I've got that right, it's important to know. Target pressure should be relatively low then... like 7 to 11 without spikes?

My pressure swings are consistent but I can stop the peaks by setting min EPAP=7; Max IPAP=14; PS=4 or similar.

I will make the adjustment you recommended and see what it produces..sort of a base line.  If you can give me any other pointers that would be helpful, I would be grateful.  If you know of any reference material that would help me fine-tune settings and understand what I am doing, that would be super.  It's hard to know which combination of factors is useful....appreciate your input.

[PaulaO2]

You may also want to consider getting a recording oxygen saturation meter and seeing what it says both with and without the CPAP on. "Normal" people do not have drops in O2 saturation. My suggestion would be to get readings without the CPAP (or with at the low setting suggested above) for at least 5 nights, preferably more.

[Sleeprider]

Oh good grief! Set your machine to Vauto mode, EPAP min 7.0, Max Pressure 14.0, PS 4.0, then stand by to see the difference! Avoid extra pillows and chin-tucking.

[Linda G]

Excellent advice - I will order the meter and look forward to results.  Am so tired during the day…this may be a clue.  Thank you so much.