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I've been using my CPAP for 3 months now and found my way here from the sleep apnea subreddit. I'm not able to adjust any of my CPAP settings but my 90 day follow-up is soon so I'm hoping to argue my case.
My sleep and wakefulness have only mildly improved since CPAP therapy started, and I've been prescribed modafinil to help me get through the work week without daytime drowsiness or naps. The medication seems to be mostly effective but I don't see that as a viable long-term solution. I've attached my chart from last night - thanks for the help!
05-22-2024, 10:43 PM (This post was last modified: 05-22-2024, 10:52 PM by HalfAsleep.)
RE: User for 3 Months, OSCAR Chart Analysis Request
Who says you can’t adjust your sleep settings? All most docs and DME are going to care about is your AHI number and compliance. This is considered “successful treatment”. If your Oscar charts look better at your settings than theirs, they’d hardly have anything to complain about.
Too bad the docs in your case have prescribed a medication instead of finessing the CPAP settings. Is it your impression they are skilled at sleep issues?
I’m sure someone will be along to help with settings. They don’t look on target the way they are, and may be making you uncomfortable.
RE: User for 3 Months, OSCAR Chart Analysis Request
HalfAsleep's observations are quite correct.
You cannot rely on these people, who focus simply on AHI and observance.
Looking at the graph, you have primarily central apneas that seem to be causing your discomfort.
I have three questions on this:-
1. Do you have this situation of centrals every night, or is it just a one-off?
2. Where central apneas figuring in you sleep study?
3. Were there any relevant comments in the reviewing doctor's report relating to central apneas?
Let us know the answers to 1 to 3 labove so we can consider further.
As regards settings, when you are ready to start adjusting, - hopefully after you have been through the 90 day review, here are some points to consider:-
- Best if you can turn off your ramp, or at least reduce the ramp time to say 20 minutes. Currently it is not contributing to your therapy.
- Increase your minimum pressure to 7 (just for starters ) until we can see a clearer path. For maximum pressure you don't need any more than 12 cms.
- Switch response to "standard" instead of "soft".
- Your current EPR at 3 is fine for the moment...
The process of improving your settings for better quality of sleep becomes a trial and error process, which can take a little time and effort.
When you are comfortable to start setting changes, let us know.
