bilevel indicators from CPAP data
hi,
I'm just curious as to what data markers (via OSCAR) would someone be looking for that might indicate they would benefit from BiLevel, vs regular CPAP/APAP? It seems that a lot of folks here don't actually get prescribed that type of machine, but look through their data to determine that.
10-27-2023, 10:16 AM
(This post was last modified: 10-27-2023, 10:17 AM by PeaceLoveAndPizza.)
RE: bilevel indicators from CPAP data
To me the main indicator is an EPR of 3 not being enough to manage flow limitations. That is what drove me to buying a Bilevel. Probably a lot more reasons I am missing as well, but that was enough for me to dust the cobwebs from my wallet and buy a new machine.
I agree with SleepRiders comments that all CPAP users should have a Bilevel. For many an EPR of 3 is just not enough and the fine-tuning of inspiration times is very helpful.
RE: bilevel indicators from CPAP data
I think bilevels are classically prescribed if you "fail" CPAP. So if you have to use a lot of pressure (think 12-16cmH20) and are getting massive aerophagia while you attempt to treat your sleep disordered breathing then this will qualify you for a bilevel trial / titration. I think if you're also having a rough time breathing out against the constant pressure this also makes you eligible.
If you're looking to optimize your therapy and are curious about bilevel I'd probably recommend you try your best to optimize CPAP first. To PeaceLoveAndPizza's point above - if you've controlled obstructive events AND are using EPR at '3' full-time and still seeing hypopneas / RERAs then you may benefit from bilevel.
You should be cautious though as a bilevel is a lot more complicated than a CPAP and you'll have access to a ton more settings that can help hurt you. Often times new bilevel users are surprised to see their therapy worse if they are self titrating and unaware of trigger sensitivity etc.
